The Honda Fit is a subcompact car produced by Honda since 2001. It has had three generations of models over the years, with updates and changes to its design, features and technology along the way.
The first generation Honda Fit debuted in 2001 and was sold until 2008. It was known as the Honda Jazz in markets outside North America. This original Fit was a 5-door hatchback with a 1.3L or 1.5L 4-cylinder engine. It was praised for its excellent interior space utilization given its small overall footprint.
The second generation Fit came out for the 2009 model year, with a more rounded exterior design and upgraded interior. The powertrains remained similar, but new technology features were added, like Bluetooth and USB integration. This generation spanned 2009-2014 before being replaced.
The current third generation Honda Fit launched in 2015. It retained the versatile hatchback body style but grew slightly larger in dimensions. The powertrain continued to focus on fuel efficiency. Updated exterior styling and new interior features helped the Fit stay competitive in the subcompact segment.
1st Generation (2001-2008)
The first generation Honda Fit debuted in 2001 in Japan as a 5-door hatchback. It was launched with a 1.3L SOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine producing 92 hp paired to a standard 5-speed manual transmission according to https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Fit_(first_generation). Key features included a stylish and versatile interior with multiple seating configurations, a flat rear floor, and innovative rear Magic Seats that could fold and flip up in multiple ways.
For the North American market, the first generation Fit launched for model year 2007 with a larger 1.5L i-VTEC 4-cylinder producing 109 hp. It featured standard front disc and rear drum brakes. Popular options included ABS, VSA stability control, and side curtain airbags according to https://www.automobile-catalog.com/model/honda/fit_1gen.html. Honda also offered a 5-speed automatic transmission starting in 2008.
2nd Generation (2009-2014)
The second generation Honda Fit was introduced in 2009 for the 2010 model year. It featured an updated exterior design with a more rounded shape and redesigned headlights and taillights [1]. The interior was also refreshed with higher quality materials and more passenger space due to the taller profile.
The powertrain options included a new 1.5L i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine producing 117 hp, which replaced the 1.5L engine from the previous generation. This new engine provided improved fuel economy and performance. The standard transmission continued to be a 5-speed manual, with a 5-speed automatic optional. Additional updates included electric power steering, redesigned suspension and an available Honda satellite-linked navigation system [1].
In 2013, the Fit underwent minor changes including redesigned headlights and other small exterior tweaks [1]. Overall, the second generation Honda Fit built upon the success of the original with subtle design changes and powertrain improvements aimed at increased efficiency and practicality.
3rd Generation (2015-2020)
The third generation Honda Fit launched in 2015 with significant updates and redesigns. Honda extended the wheelbase by 1.6 inches which improved cabin space. The exterior featured more angular styling and aggressive front and rear fascias for a sportier look. The interior received a major overhaul with higher quality materials, revised dash and console layouts, and added tech features.
This generation introduced the EX-L and EX-L Navi trims which added amenities like leather upholstery, a moonroof, navigation system, and 7-inch touchscreen display. Honda also expanded the availability of active safety features like forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and blind spot monitoring. Later models gained Honda Sensing which bundled together collision mitigation braking, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist and road departure mitigation.
Overall, the third gen Fit saw Honda inject more style, space and technology into a car known primarily for practicality and efficiency. As Carsmite notes, it strikes an appealing balance for used car shoppers.
Fuel Economy
The Honda Fit has maintained excellent fuel economy ratings over its various generations. According to Fueleconomy.gov, the 1st generation Fit from 2001-2008 achieved an average of 33 mpg combined city/highway. The 2nd generation from 2009-2014 improved to 34 mpg combined. The most recent 3rd generation from 2015-2020 continued the trend with 35 mpg combined.
Looking at city and highway mpg specifically, the 1st generation managed 29/37, the 2nd generation achieved 28/35, and the 3rd generation reached 30/36. So fuel economy has steadily increased from generation to generation.
Overall, the Honda Fit is known for its great gas mileage across all models, making it a very fuel efficient small car option. Expect city mpg in the high 20s to low 30s, and highway mpg in the mid to high 30s no matter which generation you choose.
Reliability
The Honda Fit has a reputation for being a reliable subcompact car. According to consumer reports, the 2019 Honda Fit earned a 5 out of 5 predicted reliability rating, which is quite impressive for this vehicle class. Owners praise the Honda Fit for its dependability and low cost of repairs when issues do arise.
That said, there are some model years that tend to have more problems than others. The 2007-2008 Honda Fit is prone to excessive oil consumption that can require engine repairs. The second generation 2009-2014 models had some issues with the automatic transmission as well as premature brake wear. Overall though, most reliability problems on the Honda Fit are minor and inexpensive to repair.
Repair costs for the Honda Fit are quite affordable compared to other vehicles. On average, annual maintenance and repairs run about $400 according to RepairPal. The majority of issues owners encounter are related to normal wear items like brakes, batteries, belts etc rather than major drivetrain problems. This keeps repair costs low and enhances owner satisfaction.
Safety
The Honda Fit has consistently earned high safety ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). According to IIHS, the 2020 Honda Fit earned the top rating of “Good” in all six IIHS crashworthiness tests. It also received the highest possible rating of “Superior” for its front crash prevention system.
Past model years of the Honda Fit have also performed well in IIHS testing. For example, the 2015-2019 models received the top “Good” rating in the moderate overlap front, side, roof strength and head restraint tests. The Honda Fit’s solid crash test results make it a safe choice for families, as discussed on Reddit.
In terms of standard safety features, all Honda Fit models come equipped with the Honda Sensing suite of advanced driver assistance technologies. This includes forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims add blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert. The Fit also has six airbags and an advanced tire pressure monitoring system.
Pricing
The Honda Fit holds its value relatively well compared to other small hatchbacks. According to data from Edmunds, the Fit depreciates around 30% after 5 years. This compares favorably to competitors like the Toyota Yaris which depreciates closer to 40% over the same period.
Average used Honda Fit pricing by year is as follows:
- 2007-2008: $5,000 – $7,500
- 2009-2011: $6,500 – $9,000
- 2012-2014: $8,000 – $12,000
- 2015-2017: $10,000 – $14,000
- 2018-2020: $13,000 – $17,000
Prices can vary based on factors like mileage, condition, location and options. But in general, the Fit holds its value better than other small hatchbacks which tend to depreciate more quickly.
Best Years to Buy Used
When shopping for a used Honda Fit, the ideal years to target are 2015-2020. These model years offer the best blend of value, reliability, and features [1].
The 2015-2020 Honda Fit is part of the 3rd generation, which received upgraded interior materials, new infotainment systems with smartphone connectivity, and Honda’s latest safety technologies. These newer Fits are more refined and comfortable than earlier models.
Reliability is also excellent for 2015 and newer Honda Fits. These years consistently score 4-5 out of 5 for predicted reliability in Consumer Reports ratings [2]. Owners report very few major issues even beyond 100k miles.
While prices are higher than older models, the 2015-2020 Honda Fit offers modern amenities and technology that make it worth the extra investment. Overall, these years provide the optimal blend of value, reliability, and features that used car buyers desire.
The Bottom Line on Used Honda Fits
After looking at the different generations and factors to consider, here are the key points to keep in mind when shopping for a used Honda Fit:
The 2nd generation (2009-2014) offers the best combination of value, features, and reliability. The 2013 and 2014 model years in particular stand out as the sweet spot.
All generations of the Fit have excellent fuel economy, typically averaging 30+ mpg in mixed driving conditions. This makes the Fit a very practical and efficient vehicle to own.
Reliability is a strong suit, with most Fits capable of reaching over 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. Look for cars with service records.
While not luxurious, the Fit provides excellent interior space utilization. Later models also come well-equipped.
Expect to pay $5,000-12,000 for a used Fit in good condition, depending on the model year and mileage.
For the best used Honda Fit, focus your search on 2013-2014 models. Go for the lowest mileage example you can afford that has been properly maintained.
