Honda Fit/Honda Jazz

Honda Fit

Manufacturer	Honda Motor Company
Also called	Honda Jazz
Production	2001–present
Assembly	Suzuka, Mie, Japan Sumaré, São Paulo, Brazil Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China Ayutthaya, Thailand Karawang, Indonesia
Class	North America: Subcompact Europe: Supermini
Platform	Global Small Car

The Honda Fit is a five-door hatchback automobile produced by Honda of Japan, that was first introduced in June 2001. The vehicle is known as the Fit in Japan, China, and in both North and South America. It is called the Jazz in Europe, some parts of Asia, Australia, Oceania, the Middle East, and Africa.

First generation

First-generation Fit

Also called	Honda Jazz
Production	2001–present 2007-2008 (North America)
Predecessor	Honda Logo
Class	North America: Subcompact Europe: Supermini
Body style(s)	5-door hatchback
Layout	Front engine, front-wheel drive / four-wheel drive
Platform	Global Small Car
Engine(s)	1.2 L L12A i-DSI I4 1.3 L L13A i-DSI I4 1.5 L L15A i-DSI I4 1.5 L L15A VTEC I4
Transmission(s)	5-speed manual 5-speed automatic CVT / CVT-7
Wheelbase	2,450 mm (96.5 in)
Length	3,845 mm (151.4 in)
Width	1,675 mm (65.9 in)
Height	1,525 mm (60.0 in)
Curb weight	1084 kg (2390 lb) for 1.4 L LS with manual transmission
Related	Honda Airwave Honda City

Although the Honda Fit is now one of Honda’s global models, it experienced a very slow progression as it made its way around the world. The car first debuted in the June of 2001 in Japan and immediately became a big hit. It was then introduced to Europe (early 2002), Australia (late 2002), South America (early 2003), South Africa and South-East Asia (mid 2003), China (mid 2004), and Mexico (late 2005). A production model for the United States and Canadian markets debuted on January 8, 2006 at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The car was released in Canada on April 3, 2006, and in the U.S. on April 20, 2006. Unlike most Honda models, which traditionally have 4 or 5-year model cycles, the current generation Fit will be replaced in 2009 by a newer model that was introduced in japan in 2008 after only three model years in the U.S.

Models

The Fit is sold in 6 variations. All Fit models throughout the world utilize one of these 6 distinct codes. They are found in the vehicle’s identification number (VIN):

GD1: 1.3 L L13A I4 engine 2WD
GD2: 1.3 L L13A I4 engine 4WD (Japan only)
GD3: 1.5 L L15A I4 engine 2WD
GD4: 1.5 L L35A I4 engine 2WD (America only)
GD5: 1.5 L L15A I4 engine 4WD (Japan only)
GD6: 1.2 L L12A I4 engine 2WD (Europe only)

Drivetrain

Depending on the region, the Fit is equipped with either a 1.2, 1.3, or 1.4 liter i-DSI engine, or a 1.5 liter VTEC engine. All four engines are based on Honda’s L-series engine family. The 8-valve i-DSI (intelligent dual and sequential) engines use two spark plugs per cylinder, allowing gasoline to burn more completely; therefore, fuel consumption and emissions are reduced while maximum torque at mid-range rpm is maintained. The 1.5 L VTEC engine has the typical 16-valve configuration.

US-spec interior

The engines are mated to a 5-speed manual, 5-speed automatic, or Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), depending on the region (CVT not offered in United States). Two forms of the CVT are offered: the regular, and the CVT-7. The CVT-7 has the traditional choice of gearless shifting, and a smooth, continuous flow of power with the added option of seven computer-controlled "gears" controlled by paddle shifters on the steering column.

It was once rumored that a hybrid electric variant of the Fit/Jazz was being developed,however, since that time the CEO of Honda, Takeo Fukui, confirmed this was not true and that there were no plans to develop a hybrid powertrain.

Platform

The Fit uses Honda's Global Small Car platform, which is also used by the Fit Aria/City (a sedan version of the Fit), the Airwave (a wagon version of the Fit Aria/City), the Mobilio, and the Mobilio Spike. One of the characteristics of the Fit, which is also present in the Fit Aria and Airwave, is the location of the fuel tank. Rather than placing it under the rear seats, it is located under the front seats, thereby freeing up valuable room in the back. It also allows for Honda’s "Magic Seat" system, called ULTR seat in Japan, which has five distinct seating modes:

Normal: seats are in their normal position with seating for five.
Utility: Either section (or both) of the 60:40 split rear seat sink down into the rear foot well as the rear seat back is lowered forward. This offers a low, perfectly flat surface that increases the cargo area substantially.
Long: The rear seat behind the passenger folds down similar to utility mode, but the front passenger seat folds backward, leaving an area that can hold items as long as 2.4 meters (7.9 ft).
Tall: Either section (or both) of the rear seat cushion fold up against the rear seat back, allowing for an area of 1.28 meters (4.2 ft) in height.
Refresh: With the headrest of the front seat removed, the front seat back can be folded down to form a lounge-style sitting area.

Production

The Fit is produced in 5 factories throughout the world. Suzuka (Japan), Sumaré (Brazil), Guangzhou (China), Ayutthaya (Thailand), and Karawang (Indonesia). Models produced in Japan are for Honda's home market, exported to Europe, some Asian markets, as well as Canada and the United States. The Brazilian factory supplies all of Latin America and the Caribbean. Chinese models are sold in mainland China (please note the Honda Jazz in Hong Kong is made in Japan), and also being exported to some left hand drive European markets.

Regions

The Fit is marketed in different ways and has different characteristics throughout the world, depending on which region it is sold in.

Japan

Two engines (1.3 i-DSI and 1.5 VTEC) were initially offered, each with a number of trim lines ranging from the basic "Y" to the sporty "S". The 1.3 L i-DSI was available with only the regular CVT automatic. 1.5 L VTEC models are available with either the 5-speed manual, or the CVT-7, but manual is available only FWD models. Unique to the Japanese market, the Fit is also available in 4WD. Starting at a price of about JPY1,123,000 is the basic 1.3Y model. At the top of the range is the 1.5W four wheel drive version for JPY1,743,000. A bewildering range of options and accessories are available at most levels, including Honda's HDD GPS Navigation System with its 6.5-inch (170 mm) color screen. This system incorporates TV and FM radio.

Japanese sales of the Fit exceeded the original sales target of 8,000 units on debut. By December of 2001, it had outsold the Toyota Corolla, and it ranked first in sales for nine out of twelve months in 2002. The new generation Honda Fit will debut in the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show in October 2007.

Units sold in past years (Japan Domestic Market Only):

Year	Hatchback	Aria	Total Rank in Japan
2001	104,298	n/a	6
2002	250,790	n/a	1
2003	182,285	14,623	2
2004	149,503	6,992	2
2005	125,894	5,450	3
2006	101,793	5,238	3
2007	12,517 (first 2 months)	n/a

Europe

2005 European Honda Jazz

The European market also has two engines available. The European-only 1.2 i-DSI is offered as the base model in many countries, and can only be purchased with a 5-speed manual transmission. The 1.4 i-DSI is identical to the 1339 cc 1.3 i-DSI sold in Japan, but marketed as a 1.4 L to differentiate it from the smaller 1.2 L engine (ironically, at 1244 cc, it is closer to 1.3 L than the bigger one is to 1.4 L). 1.4 L models start out well-equipped with the 5-speed manual standard and the CVT-7 available as an option.

All European models have ABS with disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes or disc brakes on the rear ones. Side airbags are standard on some high end models. The car has a good reputation in Europe with the UK's biggest automotive survey, performed by the motoring show Top Gear, revealing that the Honda Jazz was the second best vehicle on UK roads (after the Honda S2000), as voted by UK car owners in 2006. The enormous popularity of the Jazz has made it Honda's best-selling model in the region, comprising 30% of all European Honda sales.

Honda originally intended to name the car Fitta, but the word's meaning in some languages — in Swedish and Norwegian, "fitta" or "fitte" is a rather crude slang term for vagina — resulted in a last-minute change to Fit.

China

The Fit (Hatchback) went on sale in China in September 22, 2004. The City (sedan) went on sale roughly a year early, in September 28, 2003. The trims are similar to that in Japan: with the combination of 1.3 i-DSL, 1.5 VTEC, 5-speed manual, and CVT, there are 4 models in total.

United States and Canada


2007 Honda Fit base and Sport (U.S.)

The Fit went on sale in the United States and Canada in April of 2006 as a 2007 model year vehicle. It replaced the Civic hatchback for North America. Honda hopes to sell 33,000 Fits in 2006 and 50,000 per year afterwards to combat rival Toyota Motor Corporation's Scion marque. The Fit takes over for the Civic as Honda's chief entry-level subcompact; the Civic continues to grow in size and price and it was reclassified as a compact (larger than a subcompact) in 2001.

In keeping with Honda's safety initiative, the Fit is offered in North America with standard side airbags, side-curtain airbags, and ABS, in addition to the mandatory front airbags. Due to differing safety regulations, North American Fits have larger bumpers than the rest of the world, resulting in a slight increase in overall length. For the 2008 Model, US models come with a government mandated Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) to alert the driver of low pressure in any of the 4 stock wheels. Unlike some systems, the system in the 2008 Fit notifies the driver that a tire is low, but not which one.

The Fit is offered in two variants in the United States (Base and Sport), and three in Canada (DX, LX and Sport). Differences are primarily limited to cosmetics and standard equipment. All models share the same 1.5 L 109 hp (81 kW) engine and standard 5-speed manual transmission. A conventional 5-speed automatic transmission is optional, instead of the CVT found throughout the rest of the world. The Fit Sport receives paddle shifters mounted behind the steering wheel when ordered with the automatic. In the United States, the base model is priced at US$13,850, with the automatic transmission adding $800 and the Sport package adding $1,320. In Canada, it starts at CAD$14,980 for a DX with manual transmission, and goes to $20,880 for a Sport with automatic transmission.

For 2006, 27,934 Fits were sold in the United States. 45,953 units were sold between January 2007 and October 2007. A total of 73,887 Fits have been sold in the U.S. since its introduction in April 2006 through October 2007.

The 2008 Fit is largely unchanged from the 2007 with the exception of the TPMS and new windshield wipers that abandon the large rubber blade design to a more traditional rigid plastic with thin rubber blade design. MSRP has also increased roughly $100US

Brazil

In Brazil, the Fit has the same two engines from the Japanese models (All Brazilian Honda cars have engines imported from Japan) and there are three trim levels available. Base model LX features the 1.3 i-DSI engine (which is marketed as 1.4 in Brazil). The second model in the range, the LXL, features the same engine from the LX, but has extra equipment. The top model is the EX, which has essentially the same equipment from the LXL, but comes with the 1.5 VTEC engine. All models are available with the 5-speed manual or the regular CVT automatic. There are neither side airbags nor side curtains available for the Brazilian version. Also, the radio antenna is positioned differently, as it is near the front of the roof. Honda started selling the 2007 model in February 2006 with new bumpers and some cosmetic changes. The reference price is R$52,910 (around US$25,200) for Fit 1.5 EX MT on April 2006.

Alcohol (Ethanol) and gasoline hybrid Fit: Honda Brazil will start the sales in mid December/2006 only for 1.3 i-DSI. 80 hp (60 kW) @ 100% gasoline and 83 hp (62 kW) @ 100% alcohol. It also works with any intermediary mix rate. There is an additional gasoline fuel tank on the right side under the triangle window for "low temperature starts". This ensures a good start on cold days if the main tank has ben filled with alcohol.

The Fit was voted by "Quatro Rodas" magazine as Best Buy in 2005 and 2006, and as the car with happiest buyers in 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2007.

Chile

All Honda Fit sold in Chile are built in Brazil, except for a few early 2004 models. Until 2007, all three Brazilian trim levels were available LX, LXL and EX, with 5-speed manual or CVT automatic transmissions, but for 2008 models, the 1.5 liter 16-valve VTEC engine is no longer available, while the Brazilian LXL, with 1.3 liter 8-valve i-DSI engine, is sold as EX.

Retail prices for 2008 basic LX models are US$13,980, with 5-speed mechanic transmission, and US$15,520, with CVT transmission. Standard LX equipment includes air-conditioning, a CD player with six speakers, one front airbag, trip computer, remote central locking, immobilizer, LED tail lamps, power steering, power windows, power side mirrors with turning lights mounted on them.

Retail prices for 2008 EX vehicles are US$15,825 for the mechanic and $17,405 for the automatic. Standard EX equipment includes all the LX equipment plus light alloy wheels, ABS + EBD breaks, two front airbags and sunroof.

No alcohol powered engines are available in Chile.

Australia

Two 1.3-litre models (outside) and three 1.5-litre vtec models (middle)

The Jazz/Fit offering in Australia follows, to a degree, the Japanese versions (excluding the 4WD models), and was released in Australia in October 2002.

Currently starting at a retail price of AU$15,990, the base model GLi is powered by a 1.34 litre i-DSI engine, and includes air-conditioning, a CD player, two front airbags, ABS brakes, EBD, a trip computer, remote central locking, a transponder coded immobilizer, LED tail lamps, power steering, windows and mirrors. Standard is a 5-speed manual gearbox, with the CVT auto being a AU$2,000 optional extra.

At AU$18,170 the VTi adds the 1.5 litre VTEC engine, "sports" trim, and side mirror-mounted turning indicators. Optional is the 7-speed version of the CVT auto with Formula 1 inspired gear shift paddles on the steering wheel; the VTi-S has a "sports" body kit, fog lamps, and 15-inch (380 mm) alloy wheels.

A "dot" on the "J" in Jazz indicates whether it is powered by a VTEC or non-VTEC engine. The VTEC version has a blue dot and i-DSI version has a red dot. The body kit for the VTi-S has changed since its introduction in 2003. The picture to the right illustrates the differences. The white Jazz VTi-S in the middle is a December 2003 model, while the left silver Jazz is a 2004 VTi with optional bodykit, the right silver Jazz is a 2004 model VTi-S.

Since its introduction to Australia, the Jazz has been imported from Japan. However in late 2005, Honda Australia began importing the Jazz from Thailand. The cheaper production costs allowed Honda to make significant price cuts across the Jazz range, although the color range has been reduced to six (compared to 12 in Japan).

Malaysia

A post-2006 facelift Honda Jazz in Malaysia.

Fit/Jazz in Malaysia is available in two variants, the 1.5 i-DSI and 1.5 VTEC. Both of them are equipped with CVT-7 and having 2WD driving the front wheels. No Manual Transmission is offered. Unlike the Australian Market which had different trims for the Jazz e.g. (GLi (Base Model with 1.3 motor), VTi (1.5 VTEC motor without Bodykit) and VTi-S (Sports Model with Bodykit)), the Malaysian Jazzes were either the 1.3 iDSi or the 1.5 VTEC. Choices now are 1.5 iDSi and 1.5 VTEC. The VTEC model is equipped with Honda Modulo Bodykit.

Standard equipment on both models include Air-conditioning, Driver and front passenger air-bags, CD/Radio headunit, ABS Brakes, EBD, Trip computer, Central Locking, Power Assisted Windows, Power assisted Side Mirrors, Power Assisted Steering, Reflector Halogen Headlamps and Ultra/Magic Folding seats. Optional extras can be purchased from Honda Dealers/Service Centers all around Malaysia at retail price. A 3 year Warranty is standard for all Jazzes purchased from Authorized Honda Dealers in Malaysia.

Initially the Jazz was sold as a CBU model (fully imported from Japan). The variants included the 1.3 iDSi and the 1.5 VTEC model. Subsequently Malaysia received units that were built in Thailand. The main and most noticeable difference were rear disc brakes. Japan models incorporated rear drum brakes.

Early 2006 saw the facelift of the Jazz (which was introduced earlier in Japan). The facelifted version included new front fascia and bumpers, new rear bumper, new side skirts, side mirror mounted indicators/turn signals, rear LED brake light, rear LED third brake light, body colored housing headlamps and minor interior changes. The motor remains unchanged.

Singapore

Sold as the Jazz in Singapore. Only one variant is offered 1.4 i-DSI. FF layout with CVT or 5 manual transmission offered. Priced at US$38,125 (inclusive of COE). The new Honda Jazz 2008 will most likely be offered in the 1.5 L variant at more than US$45,000 (inclusive of COE) at the authorized dealer.

Jazz's Engine available in Singapore

L4 8 valves i-DSI : Max Power 65 kW (87 hp) @ 5,500 rpm , Max Torque 131 N·m (97 ft·lbf) @ 2,700 rpm

South Africa

Sold as the Jazz in South Africa, it is available with the 1.3 i-DSI (badged as a 1.4) or 1.5 VTEC engines both offered with either manual or CVT (automatic) transmission.

Thailand

Sold as the Jazz in Thailand. It is available in two variants, the 1.5 i-DSI and 1.5 VTEC. Both of them are FF layout with CVT-7 or 5 manual transmission offered.

Jazz's Engine available in Thailand

L4 8 valves i-DSI : Max Power 65 kW (87 hp) @ 5,500 rpm , Max Torque 131 N·m (97 ft·lbf) @ 2,700 rpm
L4 16 valves VTEC : Max Power 81 kW (109 hp) @ 5,800 rpm , Max Torque 143 N·m (105 ft·lbf) @ 4,800 rpm

Second-generation

Second-generation Fit

Also called	Honda Jazz
Production	2008-
Body style(s)	5-door hatchback
Layout	FF layout
Engine(s)	Europe and Japan markets 1.3 L (79.3 cu in) I4 i-VTEC 1.5 L (91.5 cu in) I4 i-VTEC North American market 1.5 L (91.5 cu in) I4 i-VTEC
Transmission(s)	Europe and Japan markets CVT 5-speed manual 5-speed automatic North American market 5-speed manual
Wheelbase	2500 mm (98.4 in)
Length	3900 mm (153.5 in)
Width	1695 mm (66.7 in)
Height	1525 mm (60 in)
Curb weight	1,200 kg (2,646 lb)
Fuel capacity	42 L (11 US gal/9 imp gal)

On 17 July 2007, Honda CEO, Takeo Fukui, announced during a press event that the next-generation Honda Fit/Jazz would make its debut in the fall of 2007 in Japan. Events leading up to the introduction of the second-generation Honda Fit slowly unveiled more information about the vehicle. On 28 August, 2007, manufacturer brochures were leaked and indicated that the second generation Honda Fit may feature three trim levels; G, L and RS.It is speculated the G and L trim levels will feature a new 1.3 L (79.3 cu in) i-VTEC engine that makes 98 hp (73 kW), while the 1.5 L (91.5 cu in) i-VTEC will be reserved for the Fit RS and will feature 118 hp (88 kW). On 20 September, 2007, images that appeared to be official promotion photography were leaked onto the internet of the 2009 Honda Fit.The new model has a pronounced one-box shape with a sleeker look than the current model. The photos also showed a panoramic glass roof.

2nd-gen Fit

On 20 August, 2007, Honda released official pictures and specifications of the new Fit.The vehicle was wider, longer, and with a longer wheelbase. Height was unchanged due to mechanical parking in Japan. ULTR magic seats were retained in the second generation, rear headrests were redesigned for better convenience when folding down the seats which now only takes two steps to fold down the whole back row. Growth in dimensions brought more space to the cabin, boot capacity increased from 12.7 to 14.2 cubic feet (0.40 m³). There is also a hidden box under the floor. Although there is no increase in the height of the body, the interior height gained another .3 in, being benefited by the new layout of the platform.

Two engines will be offered in the new Fit. A 1.3 L (79.3 cu in) i-VTEC will produce 98 hp (73 kW) at 6000 rpm and 98 lb·ft (133 N·m) at 4500 rpm. This engine will be offered in both European and Asian markets. A 1.5 L (91.5 cu in) i-VTEC engine will also be offered and have a maximum output of 118 hp (88 kW) at 6000 rpm and 107 lb·ft (145 N·m) at 4800 rpm. This will be the only engine available in the American market. A 5-speed manual, 5-speed automatic (4WD only) and CVT transmission are available.

The chassis was thoroughly reengineered and improvements have improved structural rigidity by 164 percent.

"We are very aware that the predecessor was a little firm, so we spent a lot of time fixing that. But we believe we've got it just right now."

The Fit now negotiates the bumps far better than before, while the ride still remains firm. Media publications who tested the vehicle have commented on there being less understeer than before and how the car feels more like a small sedan than a small minivan.The new suspension improves straight-line stability. While being tested on Honda's high-speed proving ground, media outlets stated the Fit felt as stable at 110 mph (177 km/h) as it did at 50 mph (80 km/h) and that the brakes also offer a high amount of stopping power while the pedal felt firm with little brake fade.

The second-generation Fit was officially unveiled as a 2008 model year vehicle on 17 October 2007 at the Tokyo Motor Show.

Regional information

Japan

JDM-spec interior

Japanese market sales have begun in October 2007 for the 2008 model year.

Mugen Fit

Second-party aftermarket tuner, Mugen, introduced on 22 October, 2007 a new line of accessories for the Japanese market 2008 Honda Fit. Two body kits (RS kit and L/S Aero kit) will be made available that include new front and rear bumpers, side skirts, a roof spoiler and chrome exhaust tip. Other accessories like alloy wheels, aluminum pedals, different gauges, a sports exhaust, stiffer suspension and the like will also be available.

Mugen Fit F154SC

On 17 January, 2008, Mugen Motorsports introduced the Mugen Fit F154SC at the 2008 Tokyo Auto Salon. The F154SC has a supercharger installed onto the stock L15A engine that raises base horsepower of the 1.5 L (91.5 cu in) I4 to 150 hp (112 kW) and 136 ft·lbf (184 N·m). Other upgrades include full coilover suspension, exhaust, intake, and brakes. Body modifications include a widen track to feed more air into the engine bay.

Jamaica

The second generation of the Honda Fit is set to go on sale in Jamaica in November 2008.

North America

Although the second generation Honda Fit was introduced in the Japanese market for the 2008 model year, the first generation Fit continues to sell in the North American market for the 2008 model year. The second generation Fit for the North American market was unveiled on 19 March, 2008, at the 2008 New York International Auto Show for the 2009 model year. The engine is an updated version of the current first generation Fit's 1.5 L (91.5 cu in) i-VTEC 4-cylinder mated to a 5-speed manual transmission or a 5-speed automatic transmission. The Fit Sport trim includes a ground appearance package, 16 in (406.4 mm) wheels, and paddle shifters.

The second generation Honda Fit will begin North American sales in the Fall of 2008 for the 2009 model year.

Thailand

The Fit is available in Thailand as the Jazz. The second generation model has been unveiled on March 23 2008. 3 trim levels will be offered with the top of the range being the SV followed by the V and the S. Cars with the S trim level will have manual and automatic transmission while the SV and V trims with only automatic transmissions.

The Jazz that is built in Thailand will be shipped to serve customers in Malaysia, Singapore and the Philippines.

Sales

On 17 July 2007, Honda announced that over 2 million Fit/Jazz units had been sold worldwide since its introduction. Japan accounts for the largest percentage of sales, with 962,000 units sold in the home market. Europe is next with 417,000 units. The U.S. accounts for 77,000 cars since introduction in 2006. Honda expected to sell 33,000 examples in the U.S. for the 2007 model year, but exceeded these expectations and sold 40,000. Honda plans to put 70,000 Fits on the U.S. roads for the 2008 model year.

Awards and recognition

Japan Car of the Year for the year 2001-2002 and 2007-2008
Car and Driver's Best Small Car in its 2007 and 2008 10Best lists.
Top Gear Survey 2006: Best Small Car
Top Gear Survey 2006: Second Best of all cars in the survey (After the Honda S2000)
Greenercars.org's One of the Greenest Vehicles of 2007 and 2008
MotorWeek Drivers' Choice Awards 2007: Best Small Car
MotorWeek Drivers' Choice Awards 2007: Best of the Year
Best Economy Car for 2008, U.S. News & World Report
Top 10 Urban Vehicles for 2008 - Cars.com