The 2015 Honda Fit has a lot going for it. It’s small, but has an incredible amount of utility. EPA fuel ratings are 32 MPG in the city, 38 MPG out on the highway, and 35 MPG combined. The base model starts at $15,525 and this top of the line EX-L test model starts at $19,800. In all, it’s a good choice for people who are looking for affordable and reliable transportation.
And it’s hella fun to drive.
Under the hood you get a 1.5L four-banger, good for 130 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque. Full horsepower doesn’t come in until 6,600 rpm. The Fit redlines at 6,800, so expect to be wailing along to squeeze out those horses.
Power goes to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission in the LX and EX, but the EX-L tester came with the CVT, accompanied by paddle shifters.
A continuously variable transmission can be a loud, monstrous beast that winds up so quickly you think the whole engine is going to explode out of the hood. This one really is no exception. Engine noise is particularly intense and those unaccustomed to the buzz may find it disturbing.
The fun really starts when you engage Sport mode and use the paddle shifters. Suddenly the transmission behaves like the seven speed manual that you’ve always wanted. You are in control of the car, and the computer will let you get pretty close to the red line before it selects the next gear.
At a smidge over 2,600 pounds, the car is light enough to be tossable, but there is not enough power to really get you in trouble. On a “Super Secret DC Curvy Road With No Traffic” (not found on Google maps), the car was aggressive enough to dig in, but not so much as to induce any “Holy C&@p!” moments.
However, playing in Sport mode will do damage to your mpgs. During my week in the Fit, where I drove mostly in Sport mode with shorter trips in Normal and Econ modes, I averaged only 24.9 miles per gallon.
Check out this video from the 2014 New York Auto Show of the 2015 Honda Fit.
Emme is a driver, reviewer, rabble rouser, and Gazelle who can be found online on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and either one of her blogs.
