Subcompact cars are typically devoid of excitement. Yet they are still in demand.
There’s a reason people buy subcompact cars, most notably affordability, strong gas mileage and maneuverability, which translates into a great commuter vehicle.
The 2018 Honda Fit is a four-door hatchback that made its American debut in 2006. Pardon the pun, but it’s a great fit for college students or seniors looking to simplify their life and save some money at the same time.
There’s plenty of competition in the subcompact class, but the consensus is the Fit resides at or near the top. Its rivals include Toyota Yaris, Hyundai Accent, Ford Fiesta, Nissan Versa, Chevy Sonic, and Kia Rio.
The Fit, Honda’s entry-level vehicle, has a unique interior makeup that sets it apart from much of its competition. It has resourceful rear seats, which fold up flat to create a rather tall opening that can accommodate items (like a bike) that other subcompacts can’t haul.
For several years now, the Fit has come equipped with the “Magic Seat,” which maximizes space. The 60/40 split rear bench will provide 52.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the back seat folded down. And the front passenger seat folds flat as well, which provides an additional 8 feet. There is also an under seat storage compartment, adding to the Fit’s overall versatility.
The front seating is fairly standard for a subcompact, but in normal configuration the back seat offers excellent room and comfort that is typically lacking in this class. Two adults can sit comfortably in the back seat with its generous leg room.
The only issue in the back is taller people may not like the headroom. This year the interior includes a larger touch screen (7-inches) and the addition of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
For 2018, Honda added a retuned suspension that it says will provide improved handling. Other new additions are more insulation for a quieter ride and safety technology like Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning and Lane Keep Assist.
The Fit can’t be classified as a peppy ride, but it’s not sluggish, either. It has one engine – a 1.5-liter, four cylinder that generates 130 horsepower and 114 pound-feet of torque. Available in three trim models (LX, Sport, EX and EX-L), the Fit goes 0-60 mph in 8.8 seconds.
We rate the Fit’s overall performance very good for a subcompact car. It gets going rather quickly and has sufficient passing power in freeway situations.
2018 Honda Fit
- Performance: 1.5-liter, four-cylinder, 130 horsepower;
- Mileage estimate: 29-40 mpg
- Estimate price: $17,200 to $21,100
- Warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles; drivetrain 5 years/60,000 miles; corrosion 5 years/unlimited; roadside assistance: 3years/36,000
A light-weight vehicle, the Fit is agile and comes with good steering and braking. Where it lacks is providing absorption over bumpy surfaces and the engine tends to whine at higher speeds, creating noise that can get annoying during longer trips.
Cost has always been a major plus for the Fit. Although the price has risen gradually over the years, the cost remains on the low side, starting at around $17,000. However, it does rise to approximately $21,000 for the top-of-the line EX-L. Don’t overlook the savings at the pumps, because the Fit gets an estimated 29-40 mpg.
For entry-level car shoppers, the Fit remains an attractive buy in the subcompact class. Its storage versatility, good gas mileage, and appealing price tag should continue to make this Honda a leading seller.
Jeffrey Weidel can be reached at skiweidel@gmail.com. Follow him on Twitter at @jeffweidel. His “Weidel on Wheels” auto reviews are featured periodically on this website at www.tahoeskiworld.com.
