The stick shift slots neatly into each of the Fit's five gears, and it's evident that the ratios were carefully selected to optimize limited torque from the 1.5-liter, 109hp, 105-lb-ft mill. An automatic transmission option also has five gears, and, on Fit Sport models, comes with paddle-style shifters. The paddle operated automatic transmission can be used in two modes, one of which is fully manual, in which it's the responsibility of the driver to be in the right gear at the right time. The second mode is dubbed "intelligent manual mode" by Honda, in which the Fit will upshift if it sees sustained rpm in any gear or if redline is reached. Both methods were fun to use in tandem with the dash mounted WRC-style gear readout.
Pricing starts between $13,000 and $14,000, with a fully-optioned sport model setting you back an additional $1,400. A sport model will get you 15-inch alloy wheels, an underbody kit with rear wing spoiler, and a sporty shift knob among other amenities.
There's something undeniably cool about the Honda Fit. Its diminutive stature makes impossible parking feats and traffic squeezes a reality, yet it can still carry four of your friends and more crap than a box truck. All the while, you're getting great gas mileage and actually looking sporty doing it. So get used to the minivan-esque driving position, the Fit is here to stay.
2007 Honda FitEstimated Price: $13,000 - $14,000 (base model)
EngineEngine Code: L15AType: In-line 4, aluminum block and headValvetrain: SOHC, four valves per cylinder, i-VTEC variable valve timingDisplacement: 1497 ccBore x Stroke: 73.0mm x 89.4mmCompression Ratio: 10.4:1Claimed Crank Hp: 109 hp @ 5800 rpmClaimed Crank Torque: 105 lb-ft @ 4800 rpmRedline: 6500 rpm
DrivetrainLayout: Transverse front engine, front-wheel drive
TransmissionGear Ratios (manual transmission)1st: 3.462:12nd: 1.870:13rd: 1.321:14th: .970:15th: .757:1Final drive: 4.290:1Differential: Open
ChassisChassis Code: GD3Exterior dimensionsCurb Weight: 2432 lbs. (Fit, m/t)Weight Distribution F/R: 61.8/38.2 (Fit, m/t)Overall Length: 157.4 in.Wheelbase: 96.5 in.Overall Width: 66.2 in.Track F/R: 57.3 in./57.1 in.Height: 60.0 in.
SuspensonFront: MacPherson struts with lower L-arm, 21mm anti-roll barRear: Torsion beam
BrakesFront: 10.3-inch vented discs w/ABSRear: 7.9-inch drums w/ABS
Wheels and TiresWheels: 14x5.5-inch steelTires: 175/65R14