The Honda Fit subcompact is growing stronger in the market. More than able to hold its own among the competition, it overtook the popular Toyota Prius gasoline-electric hybrid as Japan's top-selling car in January 2011. The last time the Honda Fit was a top-seller was in March 2009. That's nearly two years ago.
According to Honda, January 2011 sales surged nearly 14 percent from January 2010, to 14,873 vehicles, about half of them hybrids. "It's better to be No. 1," says Takanobu Ito, President, Honda. "My priority is that all our models record solid sales."
Unlike the Prius, Honda Fit sales were not impacted by the ending of most government-backed incentives back in September. The Fit is less expensive, has been recently remodeled and is available in both gas-electric and conventional gas-engine models.
The Honda Fit Hybrid is currently the most reasonable hybrid available in the Japanese market priced at just 1.59 million yen (or $19,000). It will make its way to Europe this year under the nameplate 'Jazz'; but, it not currently slated to hit U.S. shores. For now, we will have to make do with the conventional Honda Fit, which by the way, still offers superb fuel economy.
2011 Honda Fit Vital Stats
- MSRP: Below average, starting at $15,100*- Trims: 5 (5-Spd MT, 5-Spd AT, Sport 5-Spd MT, Sport 5-Spd AT, and Sport 5-Spd AT w/ Navigation System
- Standard Engine: 1.5-liter 117-horsepower (hp) I4
- Fuel Economy: Above average, with 27 mpg-city*
- Rear Headroom: Above average, with 39 in.*
- Front Headroom: Above average, with 40.4 in.*
- Standard Comfort and Convenience Features: Air conditioning, and power windows and door locks
- CD player
- Standard Safety Features: Driver and passenger side airbags, ABS, traction control, and stability control
*Compared to other small cars.
If you're interested to learn more about the new Honda Fit, visit our new Honda Fit inventory page or visit Brandfon Honda - 515 West Main Street Branford, CT 06405.
