2019 Honda Fit

Apr 14, 2024, 1:49pm ET

The Fit is a subcompact hatchback that slots at the very bottom of the Honda lineup. In spite of its entry-level positioning, the Fit packs a surprisingly roomy interior, a lively engine and a generous amount of standard equipment.

Overview

The second-generation Fit stretches 160 inches long, 60 inches tall and 67 inches wide, dimensions that make it shorter and wider than the first-gen model. It wears a Civic-inspired front fascia with angular headlights and a subtle grille dubbed "exciting H” in Honda-speak.

Around back, the Fit features tall tail lamps partially integrated into the hatch and a roof-mounted spoiler that adds a touch of sportiness to the overall appearance. Buyers can choose from eight different paint colors as well as several steel and alloy wheel designs.

Life aboard

The Fit offers a spacious cabin with plenty of room for the rear passengers thanks in part to a gas tank that is cleverly located under the front seats. The driver faces a three-spoke multi-function steering wheel and a three-pod instrument cluster made up of two analog gauges and a LCD screen that provides information about the car and its surroundings.

The Fit features Honda's patented Magic Seats, a setup that gives the driver four different ways to configure the interior. In Utility mode, the rear seats are folded flat in order to clear up a maximum of 52.7 cubic feet of cargo space. In Tall Mode, the rear seat bottoms fold upwards to reveal a large storage compartment behind the front seats designed to make carrying tall items a breeze. In Long Mode, the front passenger seatback reclines on top of the folded rear bench, making it possible to carry extra-long items. Finally, Refresh Mode turns the Fit's interior into a two-person lounge.

All models except for the entry-level LX trim come standard with a seven-inch tablet-like touch screen that runs Honda's Display Audio infotainment system. Using technology gleaned from the world of smartphones, Display Audio lets the passengers navigate the miscellaneous menus by swiping and tapping the screen.

An application-based platform called HondaLink provides access to online content such as Aha radio and Honda's navigation app.

Under the hood

Power comes from an all-new direct-injected 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 130 horsepower and 114 lb-ft. of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels via either a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that can be ordered with shift paddles or a six-speed manual transmission.

Equipped with the CVT, the Fit returns 33 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway. Economy drops to 29 city/37 highway when fitted with the six-speed manual.

Standard and optional features

Honda offers the fit in four trim levels: LX, Sport, EX, and EX-L.

The list of standard features includes power mirrors, remote keyless entry, one-touch turn signals, A/C, power windows, power locks, cruise control, a tilt and telescopic steering wheel, map lights, a multi-function steering wheel, and daytime running lights.

The list of options includes features like leather upholstery, navigation, and different alloy wheel designs. Honda also offers a performance package that brings a sport suspension, among other add-ons.

Occupant safety

All fit models regardless of trim level come standard with Honda's Vehicle Stability Assist function, traction control and rollover sensors. Front, side and side curtain airbags are also standard.

Electronic driving aids like lane departure warning, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control are available at an extra cost on models equipped with the automatic transmission.

Key competitors

The Fit squares off against a wide array of competitors including the Toyota Yaris, Ford Fiesta, the Chevrolet Sonic, the Hyundai Accent and the Kia Rio.

Buyers who don't need the practicality of a five-door body style can also look at the retro-chic Fiat 500.