This week we received the Honda Fit for testing. I’m happy the Fit finally arrived on American shores after I spotted the Fit while traveling in Hong Kong back in 2005. Attractive aero design, versatile folding seats that can accommodate many different shapes/sizes of cargo, and very desirable as gas prices approach $5/gallon.

One person on my team borrowed the Fit for a few days since it has been on his wish-list for weeks now. I get the car back and a report that he was barely able to get 22 mpg. Sheesh! I swear his feet must assume the proportions of brick whenever he gets into a test car.

22 miles per gallon is way too low for a car with EPA estimates of 27 city/33 hwy with the 5-speed automatic. The Honda Fit is outfitted with a 109 hp, 1.5 liter 16-valve SOHC VTEC® engine, is very aerodynamic, and only weighs 2,551 lbs. I drive the Fit for two days, log over 250 miles, and use every gas-saving technique in my little book of driving skills. Voila! I was able to squeeze almost 39 mpg out of Little Red Riding Hood.

I suggested that his foot should go on a strict no-carb, barf till you drop, diet.

Initial impressions of the Honda Fit:

• The car is nimble and fun to drive
• Can make tight U-turns in a flash
• 2nd row Magic Seats™ fold flat more ways than one creating a versatile cargo area
• Good low-end torque from 0 - 35 gives the Fit a snappy off-the-line launch
• Tall 5th gear - the engine was humming along at 2400 rpm while driving 65 on the freeway
• Includes lots of basic amenities for only $16k

By Gary Chan

Pros

• Torquey engine
• Nimble
• Rigid structure

Cons

• Hop around rear
• Gas mileage
• Notchy shifter

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by Twain Mein

Pros:

• Clever packaging
• The ultimate vehicle for families with young kids
• Lots of space
• Reasonable gas mileage; about 17.5 miles per gallon

Cons:

• Could use more power
• Could have 4wd
• Could be hybrid
• It’s a minivan…

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By Alex Kramer

Pros:

• Wonderfully responsive engine and transmission
• Nicely balanced suspension
• Luxurious and roomy interior
• Aggressive, yet sophisticated design

Cons:

• Hard to use navigation system
• Cluttered dashboard
• Could use more road noise insulation

Over the past 32 years, the Honda Accord has been a benchmark in the automotive industry. Loved by both critics and consumers alike, the Accord is the rare car that is a both a perennial bestseller and annual top-ten list contender. As the standard bearer of the Honda lineup, the Accord has always personified the reliability and refinement that Honda is known for. Yet for all its success, the one thing the Accord has lacked is a more spirited and daring personality. Those looking for a rip roaring ride or striking visual appeal have had to look elsewhere. Until now. Read the rest of this entry »

by Holly R.

Pros

• Comfortable ride
• Good pick-up acceleration on flat terrain (felt sporty)
• Easy to see out of the car (no blind spots)
• Really decent mileage for a V6 engine with 268-hp
• Easy to get out of the trunk, should you ever find yourself locked in it

Cons:

• Weak acceleration going up steep, narrow, winding roads
• Headlamp covers are in need of a re-design

Introduction:

I’ve never driven an Accord before. I used to want one, quite a bit actually. I’ve ridden in a few, but one of the things that struck me about this car is the sheer volume of Accords I saw on the road. All styles, years and colors! That speaks volumes as to how popular and long-lasting these vehicles really are, and just how much Accord owners love their cars. Read the rest of this entry »