Subcompact 2010 Honda Fit Stands Head-and-Shoulders Above the Competition
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Subcompact hatchbacks are a dime a dozen these days. With Americans seeking to save some money at the gas pump (not to mention base MSRP), automakers are smartly flooding the market with a small army of affordable Lilliputian gas sippers.
With all that competition, you would expect the playing field to be fairly level. And while this is largely the case, the majority of car experts pretty much agree that the 2010 Honda Fit stands tall as the clear winner in the category.
The love affair with the Honda Fit starts with the crisp, sporty exterior design. However, it's not until you climb into the well-equipped (and surprisingly roomy) interior that you realize just how much better the Honda Fit is in relation to the competition. Read any review of the 2010 Honda Fit, and the words "versatile" and "functional" are almost certain to come up.
The engineers at Honda make the most of the Fit's small proportions by incorporating a number of innovative storage compartments. Big glass windows throughout provide exceptional road visibility and serve to dissipate any feelings of claustrophobia. While most compacts list a maximum seating capacity of five, the Honda fit actually means it. The rear seat is actually roomy enough to accommodate the average-sized adults (though taller individuals may feel more comfortable in a larger vehicle class).
Storage versatility is also impeccable thanks in large part to the rear "Magic Seat." Flip the rear seatback forward, and you'll be rewarded with a whopping 57.3 cubic feet of cargo storage. Or, for bulky items you can also fold the horizontal seat cushions up to make extra room for taller items.
The interior also boasts a disproportionate amount of standard and optional features. Take a look at the feature set of the Fit's closest competitors, and you'll realize they can't compete with such accoutrements as ten cupholders, speed-sensitive volume control, six airbags, daytime running lights, power everything and GPS navigation with voice recognition.
The 2010 Fit also zips past the competition in terms of road performance. The 1.5-liter four-banger offers 117 horsepower and the suspension promises superior handling. With a manual transmission and upgraded Sport package, the Honda Fit really impresses.
Throw in the fact that the Honda Fit earns as much as 28 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, and it's clear that this little compact delivers big on value.
Despite the Fit's many benefits, it isn't for everyone. With a base price of $14,900, bargain shoppers will likely be interested in a more affordable alternative. If you'd rather compromise a few features and engine performance in favor of a lower price tag, look into the Nissan Cube, Hyundai Elantra, Toyota Yaris and Scion xD. Or, if you want a subcompact that offers a more sporty drive, check out the Mazda MAZDA3 or Volkswagen Golf.
Other factors worth considering prior to settling on the Honda Fit include wind noise and front passenger headroom. If you're 6-foot or taller, you might not feel comfortable behind the wheel of the Honda Fit. Additionally, wind noise is noticeable at higher speeds. However, these downsides are mere quibbles compared to the overall stellar package delivered by the 2010 Honda Fit. If you are in the market for an affordable subcompact, do yourself a favor and take the Fit for a spin around the dealership lot.