Honda Fit Crashes into G55 AMG: Mercedes Rolls Over

Logic would suggest that a large SUV packing an all-mighty V8 engine under the bonnet and sheetmetal tough enough for the German army would smash straight through any sort of compact car.

But once in a while, something happens that blows logic out of the water and makes you rethink your safety standards. Car News China reports on just such an accident, between a humble Honda Fit (Jazz) and the mighty Mercedes Benz G55 AMG, which could potentially be twice as heavy as the little Japanese box.

However, the G55’s high center of gravity worked to its disadvantage and it rolled over and landed on its roof. But as a testament to the German engineering, the door pillars did not crumble under the weight of the whole car, and it looks like the glass didn’t break either.

What’s more, the Honda driver was lightly injured, but the G55 driver wasn’t. However, eyewitnesses say the richer of the two ignored a red light, so we can’t say we’re completely satisfied with the result.

Photos via Weibo

Source;
http://www.autoevolution.com/news/honda-fit-crashes-into-g55-amg-mercedes-rolls-over-44686.html

Preview: 2013 Honda Fit EV/Plug-In Hybrid

By Graeme Fletcher
Motegi, Japan • Honda is set to introduce a new plug-in hybrid and an all-electric version of the Fit. The two are part of an exercise that falls under the company’s Earth Dreams Technology umbrella. Both will be launched in the United States next year. At this point, Honda Canada is still evaluating the viability of bringing one or both to Canada. Put my vote in the bring box!

The new plug-in hybrid uses an entirely new drivetrain — a gasoline-powered engine that is teamed with not one but two electric motors. This is a significant move that vaults Honda into the full-on hybrid league. As such, the plug-in hybrid can run on electric power, a combination of the gasoline and electric power sources or on the gasoline engine alone.

The new 2.0-litre Atkinson-cycle engine uses direct injection along with i-VTEC and variable cam phasing. The combination boosts torque and horsepower considerably while reducing fuel consumption by five per cent compared with the current 1.5L engine used in the Civic Hybrid.

As it stands, the gasoline engine produces 134 horsepower and 111 pound-feet of torque (although one should expect slightly better numbers in the production car). The main electric motor chips in with another 161 hp and 221 lb-ft of torque. The second electric motor plays the role of a generator.

Where this system differs from others is that the plug-in hybrid is designed to run on the electricity stored in the six-kilowatt/hour battery — which requires 1.5 hours to recharge using 220 volts — for the first 24 kilometres of the drive. When it’s depleted, the gasoline engine kicks in and drives the generator, which then provides the electricity consumed by the main electric motor.

At highway speeds, the plug-in decouples the electric side and runs on the gasoline engine alone. The interesting part is that, in each case, the motor and engine drive the wheels directly as there is no multi-speed gearbox.

It sounds complicated, but the system is remarkably seamless in the manner in which it operates. Launch is strong thanks to the motor’s low-end torque, and the delivery of power remains linear through the mid-range. Push on a little harder and the gasoline engine fires up and keeps things rolling along nicely.

The test drive of the new hybrid system was conducted in the current Accord sedan — which model will see the production version of the plug-in hybrid system is still up in the air (although my money says Accord).

Outwardly, the Honda Fit EV looks (graphics aside) exactly like its gasoline-powered sibling. In fact, it is only when climbing behind the wheel does one find the first big difference — step-in height is taller because the car has been raised to accommodate the 20-kWh main battery beneath the floor, where it is protected as well as provides a lower centre of gravity. Recharging the battery is done through an onboard charger. The 6.6-kW unit is capable of fully recharging the battery in three hours when using a 220-volt outlet. The downside is the 18 hours it takes to accomplish the same with a regular 110-volt outlet.

In lieu of the 1.5L four-cylinder engine, the EV adopts a derivative of the electric motor that currently sees duty in the fuel cell-powered Clarity. In this instance, it delivers 123 hp and 189 lb-ft of torque. The output is such that the Fit EV enjoys the same sort of acceleration as its regular compactsized counterpart equipped a 2.0L gasoline engine — credit the early arrival of the torque and the fact it stays with the program through the mid-range and on to the top end.

The Fit EV has the potential of delivering a city driving range of 195 km and a highway rating of 150 km. The difference in the distances is due to the lack of regenerative braking when the Fit is driven at a constant speed.

However, Honda is up front and admits that these are ideal distances. As such it takes the ideal and multiplies it by 0.7 to arrive at a real-world number. The multiplier takes into account the power needed to drive the electric air conditioner and power steering, provide heat in winter and supply the power requirements for everything from the radio to the wipers and heated seats. In the end, the Fit EV can provide 125 km of everyday real-world fun.

The EV also features a three-mode drive system similar to the one found in the CR-Z. In economy mode the throttle is much softer (actually too soft for most situations). The caveat to this is that if the distance to empty is getting tight, selecting the eco mode might just be the difference between getting home and not.Selecting the sport mode sharpens things appreciably, but it does so at the expense of driving range (it reduces the driving distance by up to 25% when compared with the economy mode). As such, normal mode is the best, as it balances the desire for performance with the need for a usable driving range.

As for the rest of it, the EV is every bit a Fit. It does not suffer because of the additional mass added by the battery, nor is there any compromise in the utility aspects.

The all-too-brief test drives proved both plug-in hybrid and Fit EV are road ready. Both offer surprising performance and have a ton to offer in terms of reducing the toll the automobile places on the planet.

Source;
http://life.nationalpost.com/2011/11/30/preview-2013-honda-fit-evplug-in-hybrid/

Video: 2011 Mazda2 - Good, but not quite (Honda) Fit

You know that the Honda FIT is a good car when it's used as a benchmark when comparing other good cars....

The subcompact Mazda2 isn't a bad car, but "not bad" isn't enough to take the world by storm. In today's competitive car market, there are plenty of really good cars to pick from.

Good fuel mileage is a big reason buyers go for small cars. The Mazda2 returned an average of 30 mpg overall with an automatic transmission and 33 with the manual in our testing. While that's not too shabby, it isn't outstanding these days. The larger and more comfortable Toyota Corolla compact returned 32 mpg overall in our tests with an automatic, and the midsize Hyundai Sonata GLS clocked in at 27 mpg overall.

Both of those cars are newer designs than the wee Mazda, and that's one of the 2's problems: Engine, transmission, and other technologies are advancing so fast that an older design just can't deliver the fuel economy of newer models. And the Mazda2 is an older design, having been on sale in Japan, Europe, and other markets for several years before being introduced to U.S. buyers earlier this year.

That leads to the other problem. There's good reason why carmakers bring certain models to certain markets and don't bring others. Roads, driving habits, and lifestyles vary tremendously around the world. The Mazda2 does not drive like it was designed for U.S. roads. That's because it wasn't.

The 2 is a kick to drive around town, zipping in and out of tight spaces and easy to park. On back roads, it's also entertaining to toss around. But the 2 isn't a fun cruiser. It's noisy on those highways we Americans rely on to get around so much, with a choppy ride, and it can feel a bit darty, requiring a lot of steering correction to stay on course.

Honda brought the subcompact Fit to our shores a few years ago, and it, too, was a design not intended for the U.S market. But with much more interior room and a clever folding rear seat that turns it into a mini cargo truck, the Fit has been a hit with American buyers. It's one of our top-Rated subcompacts.

The Mazda2 entered the increasingly crowded subcompact category as a contender and outscored some others in our testing. But it isn't as Fit as some others.

Source;
http://blogs.consumerreports.org/cars/2010/12/video-2011-mazda2-good-but-not-quite-fit.html

Burlapp Find: 2012 Honda FIT Extended?!?

Huh?!? Not sure if this makes sense but here it is anywayz....
Source;
http://www.burlappcars.com/2010/10/2012-honda-fit-extended.html

Car and Driver: 2009 Honda Fit Sport Automatic - Short Take Road Test

Kind of a backhanded complimented article, but a good read none the less....

2009 Honda Fit Sport Automatic - Short Take Road Test

The best cheap automatic, period.
BY DAVID GLUCKMAN, PHOTOGRAPHY BY PATRICK M. HOEY September 2009

When people ask us for car-buying advice, we invariably throw our most recent January issue at them and point to the 10Best Cars list. There may be an annoyed grunt thrown in there somewhere. This reaction comes not because we don’t like talking to people about cars, but instead because they likely won’t listen to us anyway, and the one week we spend each year selecting these cars is enough work without later having to explain the results to friends and family who have inexplicably failed to subscribe to our magazine or read our interweb bleating.

We mention this as we’re preparing to once again head back to the back roads to reselect our qualified top-10 roster. For three years running, the cheapest vehicle on our list has been the Honda Fit, and so it follows that it is the best cheap car. But does it still satisfy when made slower and slightly more expensive by way of an automatic transmission?

How Much Slower, You Ask?
When we got the acceleration test results, they were all positive. That’s positive in a bad way, as in “We’re sorry, Mr. Gluckman, but the test came back positive.” With the Sport automatic, the sprint to 60 took an extra 1.4 seconds (9.9 vs. 8.5) and the quarter-mile was accomplished 1.0 second slower (17.6 vs. 16.6) at a lower speed (79 mph vs. 83). Skidpad grip and braking performance from 70 mph were basically unchanged.

Quantifiables aside, the Fit Sport’s auto is as good a unit as anyone could expect from a car of such economical purpose, with crisp shifts when the lever is in D as well as S (for Sport) mode.

The Sport’s wheel-mounted paddles allow full manual operation and the ability to hold a cog right up to the 6800-rpm redline; D and S will shift at 6500 rpm, just shy of the power peak.

Unlike some other manufacturers’ sporty shift modes, this transmission’s will stay way down in third when fifth would be Drive’s choice. It will also accept multiple shift requests in succession, while even some of Mercedes’ AMG transmissions require a beat between paddle thwaps. The auto’s loss of gusto isn’t unnoticeable, but the engaging qualities of this slushbox manage to retain most of the funky Fit’s fun nature.

Two Kinds of Economy
Interestingly, the Fit Sport auto is rated at the same 27 mpg city/33 highway as are manual Fits, while the plain, non-Sport auto is rated at 28/35, so there’s a small sacrifice for the fun and control of the Sport’s shift mapping. We managed 28 mpg with this example, and have previously milked 31 mpg out of a manual model.

As for the reduction in cheapness, the basic auto tacks $850 onto the bill, but to get the S mode and manual paddles you have to opt for the Sport trim, itself an additional $1560 expenditure. (Sport also adds such necessities as keyless entry, cruise control, two more speakers for the stereo, and a USB audio interface, plus aesthetic niceties like a hatch spoiler, body kit, and chrome exhaust tip; the chef recommends.) Our top-spec model also bundled navigation with stability and traction control—the only way to get that safety tech is to get nav—for an additional $1850. Even once it’s all summed up, you still can’t order a Fit from the factory for more than $20K, although dealer accessories like floor mats (all models come bereft of them) and wheels can take you past that mark.

We’d certainly recommend the manual Fit first, for the obvious enthusiast reasons. But as far as cheap cars go, the Fit Sport automatic offers the best manual substitute for commuters or the clutch-averse. So if you’re one of our friends and want new-car advice, there it is—just try not to be offended if we throw a magazine at you.

Source;
http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/car/09q3/2009_honda_fit_sport_automatic-short_take_road_test

2011 Honda FIT Hybrid

Well, here's another Burlapp special, again, I don't know how he gets these, but hats off to him.

Source;
http://www.burlappcars.com/2009/09/2011-honda-fit-hybrid.html

2010 Honda Fit makes its debut

Here's another article on the 2010 Honda FIT, mostly for the US models, as far as I know, we're not slated to get the Navi in Canada.
This is the 2010 Honda Fit, the five-door fuel-efficient and fun-to-drive small sporty car, which truly takes after its name and could “fit anything.” It’s interesting how it’s compact on the outside and yet, it’s incredibly spacious inside.

Using multifunctional interior and high levels of refinement, the car offers multiple seating and cargo-carrying configurations. For excellent outward visibility, the exterior design has a “super-forward aero-form” that contributes to its aggressive, sporty stance. The 1.5-liter, i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine produces 117 horsepower at 6,600 rpm and 106 lb-ft. of torque at 4,800 rpm. A 5-speed manual transmission is standard but a 5-speed automatic transmission is available too.

Under the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) city/highway fuel economy rating, the automatic transmission Fit achieves f 28/35 miles per gallon. The manual transmission Fit and Fit Sport with either a manual or the available automatic transmission achieves an EPA city/highway fuel economy rating of 27/33 miles per gallon. Safety features include the Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE) body structure, standard anti-lock brakes as well as dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags, dual front-side airbags with passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS) and side-curtain airbags. These are standard equipment on all models.

Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA), commonly referred to as electronic stability control, is included on Fit Sport models equipped with the available Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System. Standard amenities include air conditioning, an AM/FM/CD audio system with four speakers, MP3/WMA playback capability, Radio Data System (RDS), auxiliary audio input jack, power windows, power mirrors and power door locks. The Fit Sport adds alloy wheels, an underbody aero kit, rear roofline spoiler, fog lights, security system with keyless remote entry and cruise control. In addition, the Fit Sport audio system provides six speakers, a five-mode equalizer and a USB Audio Interface. The Fit Sport is available with the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System with Voice Recognition, featuring a 6.5-inch screen and more than 7 million points of interest.

Source;

http://www.4wheelsnews.com/2010-honda-fit-makes-its-debut/

2010 Honda Fit Performs with Style and Substance

Well, I don't expect any changes from 2009, but if I could be so bold as to offer 2X 'upgrades', Manual Height adjustment for the driver's seat and available Moonroof for the Sport!
08/25/2009 - TORRANCE, Calif. -
The 2010 Honda Fit, a perennial favorite of the automotive press and customers alike, offers value and versatility in a fun-to-drive and fuel-efficient five-door package.

Compact on the outside yet spacious inside, the Fit stands apart from other entry-level vehicles with its multifunctional interior and high levels of refinement. The exclusive 60/40 split rear Magic Seat® offers multiple seating and cargo-carrying configurations - tall object mode, long object mode and utility mode - in addition to the standard five-passenger mode.

The "super-forward aero-form" exterior design supports excellent outward visibility and contributes to the vehicle’s aggressive, sporty stance. The 1.5-liter, i-VTEC® 4-cylinder engine is tuned to deliver a rewarding combination of power and fuel economy. A 5-speed manual transmission is standard and a 5-speed automatic transmission is available. Steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters on Fit Sport models equipped with the available automatic transmission allow for manual gear selection.

"The Fit offers a long list of standard feature content, outstanding fuel economy and performance while still maintaining a high level of affordability," said Erik Berkman, vice president of American Honda. "Entry-level customers can receive a tremendous value from the Fit without sacrificing function or design."

Compact on the outside with an overall length of 161.6 inches, the interior provides an impressive passenger volume of 90.8 cubic feet for its class and a rear cargo volume of 20.6 cubic feet. The rear Magic Seat provides convenient one-motion dive-down functionality and can fold flat into the floor to create a rear cargo volume of 57.3 cubic feet.

Safety highlights include the Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, standard anti-lock brakes and more. Dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags, dual front-side airbags with passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS) and side-curtain airbags are standard equipment on all models. Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®), commonly referred to as electronic stability control, is included on Fit Sport models equipped with the available Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System1.

The engine produces 117 horsepower at 6,600 rpm and 106 lb-ft. of torque at 4,800 rpm. The Fit equipped with the available automatic transmission achieves an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) city/highway fuel economy rating of 28/35 miles per gallon2 . The Fit with a manual transmission and Fit Sport with either a manual or the available automatic transmission achieve an EPA city/highway fuel economy rating of 27/33 miles per gallon2. Emissions ratings are CARB ULEV-2 and Federal EPA Tier 2, Bin 5.

The front MacPherson strut suspension and torsion beam rear suspension settings are tuned to provide a sporty, refined and dynamic driving experience. Fifteen- and 16-inch wheels (Fit and Fit Sport respectively) feature 175/65 R15 84S (Fit) and 185/55 R16 83H (Fit Sport) tires. The standard anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic brake distribution (EBD) uses 10.3-inch ventilated discs in the front and 7.9-inch drums in the rear.

The Fit comes with standard amenities such as air conditioning, an AM/FM/CD audio system with four speakers, MP3/WMA playback capability, Radio Data System (RDS), auxiliary audio input jack, power windows, power mirrors and power door locks. The Fit Sport adds alloy wheels, an underbody aero kit, rear roofline spoiler, fog lights, security system with keyless remote entry and cruise control.

The Fit Sport audio system provides six speakers, a five-mode equalizer and a USB Audio Interface3. The Fit Sport is available with the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System4 with Voice Recognition, featuring a 6.5-inch screen and more than 7 million points of interest.
The Honda Fit has received multiple awards including the prestigious Car and Driver Magazine's 2009 "10Best" list (www.caranddriver.com) and Kelly Blue Book’s (www.kbb.com) "Top 10 Green Car" and "Coolest New Cars Under $18,000" awards.

Basic Specs:
Engine: 1.5-liter SOHC i-VTEC (all aluminum)
Horsepower: 117 hp @ 6,600 rpm
Torque: 106 lb-ft. @ 4,800 rpm.
EPA-estimated Fuel Economy, City/Hwy/Comb.: 28/35/31 (Fit AT), 27/33/30 (Fit Sport AT), 27/33/29 (Fit MT and Fit Sport MT)
Emissions Rating: CARB ULEV-2 or Federal EPA Tier 2, Bin 5Seating
Capacity: 5
Length: 161.6 inches
Width: 66.7 inches
Wheelbase: 98.4 inchesTrack (front/rear): 58.7 / 58.1 inchesPassenger / Cargo Volume: 90.8 / 20.6 cubic feet
Standard Airbags: Driver's and Front-Passenger's Dual-stage, Dual-Threshold Front Airbags; Front-side airbags with passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS); and Side-curtain Airbags
Standard anti-lock braking system: 4-channel with Brake AssistAvailable Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ (Fit Sport) (Not for Canada as of yet - probably never)
Available Vehicle Stability Assist™ (Fit Sport)

1 Certain functions that rely on a satellite signal will not work correctly in Hawaii and Alaska. These functions include but are not limited to automatic clock updates and time zone adjustments.
2 Based on 2010 EPA mileage estimates, reflecting new EPA fuel economy methods beginning with 2008 models. Use for comparison purposes only. Do not compare to models before 2008. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.
3 The USB Audio Interface is used for direct connection to and control of some current digital audio players and other USB devices that contain MP3, WMA or AAC music files. Some USB devices with security software and digital rights-protected files may not work. Please see your dealer for details on compatibility.
4 Certain functions that rely on a satellite signal will not work correctly in Hawaii and Alaska. These functions include but are not limited to automatic clock updates and time zone adjustments.

Source;
http://www.hondanews.com/categories/1097/releases/5151

Honda Japan and UK; Mini Honda Jazz variant by 2011

Below is a concept drawing of what the Next Gen Honda Beat may look like....
The successful Honda Jazz is aiming for bigger things. Reports have emerged that a smaller replica of the Honda Jazz is likely to enter Asian and subsequently European markets from 2011.

The new small car from Honda will rival Toyota's iQ and Smart's Fortwo. As per the reports last week, Honda would use the engineering talent in India to a large extent in bringing out this small car. The mini Honda Jazz could use the kei car 'Life' as its underpinnings.

As this is a Honda, irrespective of its price tag, the mini Jazz will be filled with technology. A hybrid variant is planned, but to start with a small turbocharged petrol engine could be utilized.

The car would be marketed as a city car. Honda's Chinese facility could yield this model while talks about Honda's high capacity production line in India, which is currently being constructed, cannot be ruled out as a potential production site.

Can you say....Honda Beat?

Source;

http://www.automotoportal.com/article/mini-honda-jazz-variant-by-2011

2009 Honda FIT Video Review

Mazda 2 Coming to Canada? = More Competition for the Honda FIT!

NEW YORK – The Mazda2, a slick little subcompact sold in Europe and Asia, is coming to Canada, confirmed Mazda Motor Corporation president and CEO Takashi Yamanouchi.


“I've just decided,” said Yamanouchi, a 42-year veteran of Mazda who assumed the top job last November.

The Globe and Mail is the first news outlet to confirm that the Mazda2 will join Mazda Canada' lineup. The announcement was not part of formal Yamanouchi's formal remarks during press days for the New York International Auto Show at the Jacob Javits Centre.

While Yamanouchi would not confirm an exact launch date, sources suggest the Mazda2 would go on sale within the next year. It is designed to compete against the Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris, Hyundai Accent and Chevrolet Aveo, among others.

The Mazda2, of course, is the foundation for the Ford Fiesta already on sale in Europe and other markets. The Fiesta is due at a 2011 model. Yamanouchi said Mazda has wrestled with the decision to add the subcompact to the Mazda Canada's lineup.

“There has been a lot of discussion about that,” he said. “There is concern it would cannibalize Mazda3 sales. We need it to be incremental.”

The Mazda3 is the Canadian operation's most important model by far. The compact was Canada's best-selling car overall for the first two months of this year and No. 3 overall in Canada in 2008, behind the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla.

Mazda officials are rightly concerned that some buyers might opt for the less expensive Mazda2 rather than purchase the Mazda3. Mazda would need to price the Mazda2 starting below $15,000 for it to make any sense at all and that is at least $1,000 less than the most economical Mazda3.

Pricing the Mazda2 so that it can be profitable and also compete effectively won't be easy. The strong yen makes Japanese exports expensive overseas.

Nonetheless, Yamanouchi said that Canada is Mazda's fourth-largest market in the world and plays a critical role in the company's fortunes. Given 50 per cent of all passenger car sales in Canada are comprised of compact and subcompact models, Mazda Canada has been under pressure to sell the Mazda2 for some time.

News of the Mazda2 coming to Canada was the most startling development during a second media day at the New York show. But it was by far not the only announcement.

Subaru unveiled the 2010 Legacy sedan and Outback wagon, promising to tackle rivals such as the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Fusion, Nissan Altima and Chevrolet Malibu with more vigor.

Subaru Canada president and CEO Katsuhiro Yokoyama said the outgoing all-wheel-drive Legacy is slightly undersized compared to other midsize sedans. But the 2010 model, with its all-new platform, more robust styling and added features, is better positioned to take on the sales leaders in the midsize sedan segment.

“Now we can compete, but first we must get on the shopping list,” he said.

That means Subaru Canada will not cut its marketing budget this year in an effort to reach out to new customers. The company is reasonably well positioned to do so, too. Last year Subaru Canada had its best sales year ever, selling nearly 20,000 vehicles despite the economic downturn. Sales remain strong this year, also.

Yokoyama said Subaru's success in Canada can be traced to the new models launched in the last 18 months. The Forester crossover, in fact, won its category in the annual car of the year awards handed out by the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC).

The Impreza compact, meanwhile, is one of the few AWD compact cars sold in Canada and it enjoys a strong reputation for safety and reliability.

The third pillar in the company's product lineup in Canada is the Legacy/Outback combination. It will roll into dealer showrooms late this summer. Pricing will be announced later this year.


Other announcements at the show:
Scion, Toyota's youth brand, showed a minicar concept clearly based on the Toyota iQ sold in Europe and Asia. Scion comes to Canada next year and a production version of the minicar might be part of the lineup, competing against the Smart fortwo.

Mercedes-Benz showed the E63 AMG, a 518-horsepower version of the E-Class; Hyundai previewed the next Santa Fe with a crossover concept; Mitsubishi had an upscale concept version of its Outlander crossover; and Acura's ZDX prototype, based on the MDX crossover utility platform, will go on sale in the fall. The ZDX is a so-called four-door coupe and will be built in Alliston, Ontario.


Source;
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/blogs/driving/

Honda Fit named MOTORING’s Car of the Year

Toronto, Ontario - Canadian television show MOTORING has named the Honda Fit as its 2009 Car of the Year. This year’s edition named winners in 13 categories plus the overall winner, including a new Green Power category.

For the first time in the show’s 22-year history, two cars tied, resulting in the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution and Subaru WRX STI sharing honours for Performance Car Under $35,000. The new Green Power category went to GM and Chrysler’s shared Two-Mode Hybrid System, which edged out the Volkswagen TDI and Mercedes-Benz BlueTec diesel technologies.

To watch the show online, visit MOTORING.

The winners for 2009 were:
Overall: Honda Fit
Small Car: Honda Fit
Family Car Under $30,000: Mazda6
Family Car Over $30,000: Pontiac G8
Sports Car: Dodge Challenger
Luxury Car: Hyundai Genesis
Prestige Car: Lexus IS F
Performance Car Under $50,000: Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution/Subaru WRX STI (tie)
Performance Car Over $50,000: Chevrolet Corvette ZR1
CUV Under $35,000: Subaru Forester
CUV Over $35,000: Ford Flex
SUV: Suzuki Grand Vitara
Pickup Truck: Ford F-150
Green Power: GM/Chrysler Two-Mode Hybrid

Source;
http://www.canadiandriver.com/2009/03/30/honda-fit-named-motorings-car-of-the-year.htm

Honda Fit top subcompact car: Consumer Reports

Yonkers, New York - The newly-redesigned Honda Fit has been named Consumer Reports’ highest-rated subcompact, beating six subcompacts and small sedans in the magazine’s most recent round of tests.

“The Fit seems roomier on the inside than you might expect, with an interior that is unusually versatile and flexible, and cargo capacity rivaling that of a small SUV,” said David Champion, auto test centre senior director. “Lightness and agility make the Fit fun to drive, the powertrain is smooth and willing, and fuel economy is enviable.”

Consumer Reports tested a base model with automatic transmission, and a Sport model with manual transmission, both of which earned “Very Good” overall road test scores. Among the vehicles tested, the Suzuki SX4 and Nissan Versa rated “Very Good” overall, while the base model Toyota Yaris and Chevrolet Aveo5 scored “Good” overall.

The Fit and SX4 are the only vehicles in the group that are rated “Recommended” by Consumer Reports. To qualify, a vehicle must perform well in the magazine’s tests, have at least average predicted reliability based on magazine surveys, and performed at least adequately if crash-tested or included in a government rollover test.

The magazine said that the Versa sedan’s reliability has been much below average, while reliability for the Versa hatchback has been average, and the Aveo and Yaris scored too low in testing to be recommended.

Source;
http://www.canadiandriver.com/2009/02/03/honda-fit-top-subcompact-car-consumer-reports.htm

Honda outlines its green car future

It’s the time of year when most of us take stock of what’s gone before and evaluate our futures - and Japanese car maker Honda is no exception.

Its CEO Takeo Fukui has outlined the steps that Honda is taking in the short-term to tackle the global financial crisis while also addressing the company’s long term green car commitments.

According to Fukui, Honda will concentrate its efforts on the development of fuel efficient cars more than ever. He has outlined hybrid models of both small cars and motorcycles as the key to achieving this goal. Honda believes that hybrid technology is the most realistic path to carbon dioxide (CO2) reduction at this moment and will be focusing its energies on hybrids in an effort to achieve mass market penetration.

In particular, the eagerly anticipated Honda Insight, which will debut at January’s Detroit show, has been strongly emphasised while the company will also consider applying hybrid technology to medium and large-size vehicles.

To support the sale of hybrid models, the company will strengthen its manufacturing system. Production of the hybrid motor for the IMA system has already begun for the first time at the Suzuka Factory and motor capacity will be increased to 250,000 units annually. Honda will also establish a production system and determine the capabilities needed for a further increase in demand for hybrid cars.

In addition, Honda will focus on accelerating product development of small cars to fulfil strong demand from customers, particularly in emerging countries. A new small car will be positioned in the class below the Fit and be introduced in the next two-three years.

Honda will also remain committed to advancing its global production system with a central focus on Japan and in creating fuel-efficient products. According to Fukui, Honda is developing a battery powered electric motorcycle to be introduced to the market in around two years.

Source;
http://www.thegreencarwebsite.co.uk/blog/index.php/2008/12/22/honda-outlines-its-green-car-future/

Honda To Construct Jazz Subcompact In UK From 2009

This is NOT the vehicle that they are talking about, this was an older rendering of the Insight.

Honda Motor Co Ltd has made announcement that the company will soon begin constructing the new variant of the popular Jazz subcompact at its factory in Britain coming fiscal, to meet the mounting demand for fuel-efficient cars in Europe.

The company has unveiled the new Jazz, called Fit in some markets, at the Paris auto show.

The Jazz sold in Europe is presently imported from Japan and China.

Honda CEO Takeo Fukui also rolled out Insight, its new low-cost hybrid, that would achieve fuel-efficiency similar to the Civic hyrbrid but at a "significantly reduced price."

Source;

http://www.stockwatch.in/honda-construct-jazz-subcompact-uk-2009-21339

Ings+1 N-SPEC Honda Fit

Own a 2009 Fit? Wanna give it some serious attitude? Well brace yourself with the Ings+1 N-SPEC. This kit (more information below) doesn't include a performance upgrade, you'll have to check with other manufacturers about that. Anyway, feel free to contact the folks of INGS+1 directly for further information and prices.

DEMO CAR SPEC DATA

- WHEEL : RAYS / VOLK RACING RE30 '08 FORMULA LIMITED EDITION[ F 17 X 7.5J +43 R 17 X 7.5J +43 ]- TYRE : BRIDGESTONE / POTENZA RE050 [ F 215/40ZR17 R 215/40ZR17 ]- SPACER : R 8mm- SUSPENSION :- SEAT : BRIDE / DIGO x2- BRAKE : F ENDLESS SS-M

Original Source;
http://www.nihoncar.com/en/news-910-Ings%2B1+N-SPEC+Honda+Fit.html
Actual Link; INGS 1

More Info on the 2009 Honda FIT

THE BODY

The 2nd generation Fit features several design innovations to further enhance its active, smart appearance, aerodynamically sleek form and highly rigid construction. Most striking among these is the super-forward aero-form design, achieved by positioning the front pillar as far forward as possible, for maximum visual impact. The expanded windshield and large front quarter windows improve visibility while making the cabin feel even more spacious. A distinctive honeycomb grille and larger, more sharply styled headlights add a feel of dynamism and presence. Fluid, arcing lines highlight the sleek contours of the upper body’s tapered, aerodynamic form.

Structural innovations in key areas throughout the body and frame increase rigidity with minimum additional weight, resulting in a highperformance body structure with compliant handling and enhanced safety performance. The Fit’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure contributes to improved vehicle rigidity in addition to frontal collision safety. Strengthening of stress-bearing areas in the frame helps reduce vibrations that can cause noise and hum. The amount of high-tensile steel in the Fit’s body has been increased from 40% to 54%, and front body rigidity has been increased 164%.

Small exterior, easy to access, spacious interior, with great maneuverability

While the 2nd generation Fit has grown compared to the model it replaces, it is by no means big. The Fit is now slightly wider and longer, but its height remains unchanged. With its greater length, the wheelbase has also grown. This coupled with the vehicle’s wider track results in an improved curb to curb turning diameter (10.5m). Specific measures were taken to optimize interior space, like repositioning the slightly taller windshield and roof peak (the roof’s highest point) slightly forward. The Fit’s wide doors can be opened as wide as 80° and the wide rear tailgate opening is lower making it easier to get people and cargo in or out of the vehicle.

A more rigid yet lightweight body design

Structural innovations throughout the body and frame increase rigidity with minimal additional weight. In addition to Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure strengthening of stress-bearing areas in the frame helps reduce vibration. The proportion of high-tensile steel in the Fit’s body has increased from 40% to 54%. Overall body rigidity has similarly increased 164%. The result is a highperformance body with exceptional handling and enhanced safety performance.

• High-tensile steel used in 54% of body
• Overall body rigidity increased 164%
• Enhanced frame design for a quieter ride

SAFETY

The 2nd generation Fit offers enhanced safety features. Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) makes the Fit highly effective at absorbing the energy of a frontal crash. It
also helps minimize the potential for under-ride or override, which can occur during head-on or offset-frontal impacts with a significantly larger or smaller vehicle. This not only provides improved protection for vehicle occupants, but also helps mitigate damage to other vehicles.

In addition to dual-stage, dual-threshold front airbags, every Fit features front side airbags with a passenger-side occupant position detection system and a side curtain airbag system to help protect occupants’ heads and necks in the event of a side collision. Three-point seatbelts are standard in all seating positions.

Also standard is a Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system, which provides rigid attachment points in the outboard rear seats for up to two child seats. Additional standard safety features include an anti-lock brake system (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD,
front seat belts with automatic tensioning systems, driver and front passenger Active Head Restraints, and a pedestrian injury mitigation body design in the front of the vehicle.

More Information on the 2009 Honda FIT for CANADA

Here are all of the Trim levels for Canada;

2009 Honda FIT DX Manual Transmission (AT)
2009 Honda FIT DX Automatic Transmission (MT)
(Base model, no air conditioning)

2009 Honda FIT DX-A MT
2009 Honda FIT DX-A AT
(Base model, adds air conditioning only)

2009 Honda FIT LX MT
2009 Honda FIT LX AT
(Adds cruise control, 15" alloy wheels, armrest[s], keyless entry)

2009 Honda FIT Sport MT
2009 Honda FIT Sport AT
(Adds 16" alloy wheels, alarm, rear spoiler, front gfx, side gfx, fog lights, leather wrapped steering wheel)

Colours Available

DX and DX-A Trims
-Sapphire Blue Pearl (new)
-Grey (light, almost silver)
-Black
-Red

LX Trims (added to above colours)
-White
-Blackberry Pearl
-Blue (bright)

Sport Trims (added to above colours)
-Orange

I am expecting the first wave of FIT's to arrive between Sept. 05/08 to Sept. 11/08. They are 'drop shipping' the cars into our inventory, which means we have no say as to what colours or trims land. A lot of the vehicles landing are pre-sold, so, I'd get your order in if you need a car soon.

Pricing and any special finance rates have not been released yet. I do not expect much of a jump over last years pricing. Honda may release rates on the 1st of Sept, contact your nearest dealer for that information.

Honda FIT Hybrid Not Coming to North America

Over the past year, Honda officials have spoken extensively about plans for hybrid vehicles to be added to the lineup. Starting next spring, a new hybrid-only five door hatchback that looks like a scaled down version of the FCX Clarity will debut at a price expected to be less than $19,000. That will be followed by a second dedicated hybrid coupe based on the CR-Z concept. The Civic hybrid will also be staying in the U.S. lineup. What U.S. buyers won't be getting is a fourth model that has been mentioned by CEO Takeo Fukui. Honda will add its IMA hybrid system to the Fit, but only for the Japanese market. During the recent media drive of the new 2009 Fit, I asked spokesman Sage Marie when the Fit hybrid would be arriving. Marie explained that because of supply constraints of the Fit, there were no current plans to bring the hybrid model to the U.S. Much like the MINI Cooper D that is already selling at capacity, Honda is selling every existing Fit it can get, and adding another variant wouldn't likely help the business case. American buyers have shown a preference for a dedicated hybrid and Honda plans to attack that segment with two new cars in 2009.

Source; (Honda)
http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/08/22/honda-fit-hybrid-not-coming-to-the-us/

Autoblog Green's 1st drive of the 2009 FIT

When Honda introduced the first generation Fit to the North American market in mid-2006, its timing couldn't have been better. The entry level hatchback appeared just as fuel prices in the U.S. were heading skyward. Ever since then, the Fit has been selling as fast as Honda can bring them in from Japan. The Fit (or Jazz as its known in some markets) debuted in 2001 and the second-generation model went on sale in Japan last fall. Honda showed the new U.S.-spec Fit at the New York Auto Show last spring and we had our first opportunity to drive it on the roads north of Ann Arbor MI last week.

As is typically the case with new models, the updated Fit has grown a bit (about 4 inches in overall length) but it's only about 44 lbs heavier than the outgoing model. Also in the usual fashion, Honda strove to increase the refinement of the Fit while not losing any of the fun-loving qualities of the original. In the process, Honda has had to deal with rising raw material and shipping costs while keeping the price from getting out of hand. Read on to find out if the spiritual descendants of Soichiro Honda have succeeded.

The debut of the modern MINI earlier this decade clearly demonstrated that a small, fuel efficient car didn't have to be a cheap, plasticy, under-performing penalty box from which to suffer your commuting activities. The MINI's BMW origins, however, meant that it was a bit on the pricey side as well as having a minuscule back seat. The arrival of the Fit on our shores took those same driving qualities but added a more reasonable price and vastly more space for occupants. The Fit is taller and longer than the MINI, but smaller than cars like the Nissan Versa and Ford Focus.

The original Fit was designed well before Honda decided to bring the car to North America, so it didn't incorporate much in way of U.S. demands. Nonetheless, in its first two years on the market, American drivers took to the Fit and Honda sold as many as they could bring in from Japan. Besides its capabilities on the road and fuel efficiency, features like the rear Magic Seats and cargo space also contributed to its popularity. For the second generation Honda wanted to build on what made the original a hot seller without diluting any of those properties.

Here is a link to the rest of the article;
http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/08/19/abg-first-drive-2009-honda-fit-sport/