2008 Honda Fit Review
The Fit is a subcompact hatchback introduced in 2007. Popular in Europe for years as the Honda Jazz, the Fit soon created a stateside buzz, and dealers have had trouble keeping them in stock. Offering an amazingly spacious and configurable interior, the Fit was one of Car and Driver’s “Top Ten” for 2007.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The Honda Fit is one of the best releases of the past few years. Like a real-life spaceship, or more specifically the TARDIS, the Fit seems to be bigger on the inside than the outside. It’s just about everything you could ask for from a full-size sedan, in a fuel-efficient, thrifty package. No wonder dealers can’t keep them in stock.
What’s New For 2008:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power gives the Fit 5 stars for mechanical quality and 3 stars for performance and design. The only reported problem is wiper chatter. No major recalls have been issued. Expect above average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
The Fit earned perfect government frontal crash tests scores. It earned four stars overall in side impact testing. In IIHS tests, it received “Good” for the front and side, and “Poor” for the rear. Anti-lock brakes and full side airbags come standard.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Spacious
+ Great handling
+ Fuel efficient
Cons
– Trouble with hills
– Noisy engine
– Pricier than some competition
Head-To-Head Competition:
The Kia Rio5 costs about a thousand less, and matches up very closely to the Fit in terms of power and features. The Nissan Versa Hatchback also costs about a thousand less, has a bit more hp, but is otherwise very similar. The Chevrolet Aveo5 costs a couple thousand less and has a longer warranty.
What Others Are Saying:
“The new Honda Fit is a relatively painless vehicle for drivers looking to shape up and ship out, or people who just want a decent cheap car. All you have to give up is your pretentious classicism. Well, that and your full-size spare tire.” – The Truth About Cars
“Drivers whose idea of a great time is a four or five hundred mile weekend run down the thruway with the family will probably think the Fit is too small for their needs. They’d be mistaken. The Fit will carry as many people and bags as almost any so-called full size car and it will do it in similar comfort and at similar speeds.’ – About.com
“The 2007 Honda Fit is a well-designed all-purpose vehicle that can tackle a wide range of tasks. It works well as a commute vehicle and for running errands around town, but it isn’t good on hills and will make its occupants suffer on longer trips.” – C|Net
Read more about the 2008 Honda Fit at the Honda manufacturer web site.
