Consumer Reports' has announced that the 2009 Honda Fit has managed to outscore its competitors, which includes the Toyota Yaris, Nissan Versa, Chevrolet Aveo and Suzuki SX4.
Consumer Reports' tested six subcompacts and small sedans for its March issue. The Honda Fit which is all-new for 2009 received CR's top rating due to its roomy, versatile and flexible interior. CR also noted the Fit's fun to drive character and its good fuel economy.
The Fit and Suzuki SX4 are the only two vehicles in the test that are "recommended" by CR. The Nissan Versa's reliability, which is below average for the sedan kept it from receiving the publication's recommendation. The Chevy Aveo and Toyota Yaris also scored too low in CR's tests.
PRESS RELEASE:
Redesigned Honda Fit Tops Consumer Reports' Ratings of Subcompact Cars
Fit easily outscores competitors including Toyota Yaris, Nissan Versa, Chevrolet Aveo and Suzuki SX4
YONKERS, N.Y., Feb. 2 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The newly-redesigned Honda Fit outpointed competitors including the Toyota Yaris and Nissan Versa in Consumer Reports' tests of six subcompacts and small sedans for the March issue. The Fit remains CR's highest-rated subcompact.
The Honda Fit became a hot-selling vehicle when gasoline prices topped $4 a gallon. A redesigned and slightly larger Fit arrived last fall, and it improves on the space-efficient formula that made the last one such a hit with buyers.
"The Fit seems roomier on the inside than you might expect, with an interior that is unusually versatile and flexible--and cargo capacity rivaling that of a small SUV," said David Champion, senior director of Consumer Reports' Auto Test Center in East Haddam, Connecticut. "Lightness and agility make the Fit fun to drive, the powertrain is smooth and willing, and fuel economy is enviable."
Consumer Reports tested two trim lines of the Fit, a base model with an automatic transmission and a manual upscale Sport model, both of which earned "Very Good" overall road test scores. CR also tested two other subcompacts--a base model Toyota Yaris and a Chevrolet Aveo5, both of which scored "Good" overall, and two small sedans--the Suzuki SX4 and Nissan Versa, both of which were rated Very Good overall.
Prices for the six cars in CR's tests range from $16,020 for the base Fit to $17,378 for the Suzuki SX4.
Full tests and ratings of the test group appear in the March issue of Consumer Reports, which goes on sale February 3. The reports are also available to subscribers of www.ConsumerReports.org.
The Fit and the SX4 are the only vehicles from this month's test group that are Recommended by Consumer Reports. CR only Recommends vehicles that have performed well in its tests, have at least average predicted reliability based on CR's Annual Car Reliability Survey of its more than seven million print and web subscribers, and performed at least adequately if crash-tested or included in a government rollover test.
The Versa sedan's reliability is much below average; reliability for the hatchback Versa has been average. The Aveo and Yaris scored too low in CR's tests to be recommended.
CR's engineers found the new Fit the most practical and enjoyable car in this month's group. It has easy cabin access and a panoramic view out. It also comes well equipped and has comfortable seating. The base Fit ($16,020 Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price as tested) and Fit Sport ($16,730 MSRP as tested) are powered by a 118-hp, 1.5 liter four-cylinder engine that delivers quick takeoffs but doesn't brim with power. The Fit Sport's easy shifting five-speed manual transmission adds sportiness; the five-speed automatic in the base model is more relaxed, with lower engine speed on the highway. Braking was rated Very Good. Fuel economy is an impressive 33 mpg overall in the Fit Sport and 30 mpg overall in the base model with the automatic.
The SX4 LE was conceived as a subcompact, but its price and 26 mpg overall fuel economy makes it compete more closely with cars one size bigger. The SX4 has a stiff, choppy ride on rough and smooth roads. Steering isn't quick or communicative. The SX4 LE ($17,378 MSRP as tested) is equipped with a 143-horsepower, 2.0-liter, four cylinder engine that is mated to a fairly smooth four-speed automatic transmission. Acceleration feels a bit lethargic. Braking performance is very good.
The Versa has a nicely made, well-appointed interior. It rides pleasantly and quietly, and the powertrain feels refined. The rear seat is enormous for a small car. Handling is sound but not really agile, and it's tricky at the limits. Its 27-mpg overall fuel economy is not impressive. The Versa 1.8S ($16,130 MSRP as tested) is powered by a 122-horsepower, 1.8-liter, four-cylinder engine that accelerates adequately; the four-speed automatic is smooth and responsive. Interior storage is modest, but trunk space is quite generous. Braking is very good.
The compactly-sized Yaris is ideal for tight spaces, making it a good city car. Its gets very good fuel economy at 30 mpg overall and has some nice interior touches such as a rear seat that adjusts fore and aft and three glove compartments. Handling is responsive but can be tricky at the limits. The base model Yaris ($16,095 MSRP as tested) is equipped with a 106-horsepower, 1.5-liter, four-cylinder engine that feels lively enough around town but lacks reserve power for the highway. The four-speed automatic shifts smoothly. Braking is excellent.
Despite recent updates, the Aveo remains unpleasant, outdated, and overpriced for what you get. Acceleration is slow, the engine is rough and noisy, handling is clumsy, and the ride is jumpy. Fuel economy at 26 mpg overall is poor for its class, and reliability has been below average. The Aveo51LT ($16,470 MSRP as tested) is powered by an anemic 106-horsepower, 1.6-liter, four-cylinder engine, and the four-speed automatic transmission isn't very responsive. Braking performance is very good.
With more than 7 million print and online subscribers, Consumer Reports is one of the most trusted sources for information and advice on consumer products and services. It conducts the most comprehensive auto-test program of any U.S. publication or Web site; the magazine's auto experts have decades of experience in driving, testing, and reporting on cars. To become a subscriber, consumers can call 1-800-234-1645. Information and articles from the magazine can be accessed online at www.ConsumerReports.org.
MARCH 2009
The material above is intended for legitimate news entities only; it may not be used for commercial or promotional purposes. Consumer Reports(R) is published by Consumers Union, an expert, independent nonprofit organization whose mission is to work for a fair, just, and safe marketplace for all consumers and to empower consumers to protect themselves. To achieve this mission, we test, inform, and protect. To maintain our independence and impartiality, Consumers Union accepts no outside advertising, no free test samples, and has no agenda other than the interests of consumers. Consumers Union supports itself through the sale of our information products and services, individual contributions, and a few noncommercial grants.
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Comments (17)
I read that article and do not agree. When I purchased a 08 Civic this year, I looked into the fit. I was not impressed, although it is small, it was very odd setup, uncomfortable to sit in, and had a very cheap feeling to it. Horrible hard seats too. The car is dangerously underpowered, pushing it at every intersection, and the gas mileage not that good overall.
The Civic was by far a better car, IMO. By the time you priced the Fit with any options, you can afford a better car with same or better MPG. I get 30+ in a fully loaded automatic Civic in mixed driving.
Versa: Its 27-mpg overall fuel economy is not impressive.
Fit: Fuel economy is an impressive 33 mpg overall in the Fit Sport and 30 mpg overall in the base model with the automatic.
Wow, 3mpg difference; one was not impressive, one was acceptable. yikes.
Here is the most killer statement yet, I almost fell off my chair:
It [CU] conducts the most comprehensive auto-test program of any U.S. publication or Web site; the magazine's auto experts have decades of experience in driving, testing, and reporting on cars.
What a joke. ANY site? wow. Their reporting and data collection methods are completely unscientific, just google and read.
Posted by sparky | February 3, 2009 2:00 PM
Posted on February 3, 2009 14:00
I'd like to know why the Yaris didn't fare better? I'm not about to read the full article though. Maybe they received a bigger payoff from Honda?
Posted by gm0n3y | February 3, 2009 2:43 PM
Posted on February 3, 2009 14:43
As I look at all the snow on the roads right now, the fact the SX4 can be had with AWD makes it seem all the more practical than any of its competition... at least here in Canada.
Posted by Trinity | February 3, 2009 4:18 PM
Posted on February 3, 2009 16:18
Just wait till Ford brings its Euro cars over like the Ka and the Fiesta.
These cars are already great cars over in Europe. That is as long as Ford doesn't Americanize them up too much.
When I was in Europe in 2007 I got to drive a rental Focus for a little over a week. It was dated for European standards but was worlds ahead of the US Focus of the same model year.
Posted by Tom T | February 3, 2009 6:09 PM
Posted on February 3, 2009 18:09
Fully loaded Civic? Compared to a Fit? Maybe some people can't afford a full loaded Civic.... some people don't have a few grand to throw at a "nicer" car.
Come on, did you drive any of them besides the Fit? It feels good compared to the others, especially the gosh-awful Aveo. I've not driven the SX4 at all, but I can tell you the Versa is a nice car for what you pay for, and I thought the Yaris was not nice at all. A little too simple and cheapy for me, but hey... you're buying an economy car, you can't expect Civic quality when you pay less.
I thought the Fit was on-par with Civic quality. It just definitely was not as sporty or desirable as the Civic, although cargo room was vast in comparison to the Civic. It was a fun little car.
Posted by Joan of Arc | February 3, 2009 10:24 PM
Posted on February 3, 2009 22:24
I second the Aveo is a piece...a steaming one at that.
Posted by Brian | February 4, 2009 12:41 AM
Posted on February 4, 2009 00:41
I have been driving a Civic Coupe for over 12 years but my next car will probably be a Fit, because it is much more practical. I got to drive one when my Civic was in the shop and liked it a lot.
Posted by Mr Future | February 4, 2009 2:06 AM
Posted on February 4, 2009 02:06
The Fit needs a 6 speed transmission - it runs at 4000 rpm at highway speeds, making it noisy and unpleasant.
Posted by steve | February 4, 2009 3:35 AM
Posted on February 4, 2009 03:35
@ sparky
Where you the one talking about buying american and not sending profits over seas? Now you say you purchased a civic....what gives with the hypocracy.
@ steve
I agree with you on Honda's high rpms, the three small Honda's I've owned all were excessively loud on the highway and I noticed a significant drop in MPG over 65....all 5 speed VTECs from the B16/B18 years which explains some of it, but I wish they could have added an extra 100lbs in sound proofing and a 6th gear. I loved the cars and would have kept them longer (and paid more for them) if their highway driving dynamics were better. Honda makes great stuff, but sometimes I just don't see them putting all the pieces together correctly.
Posted by thetruth | February 4, 2009 5:46 AM
Posted on February 4, 2009 05:46
@thetruth.
When I bought the Civic, and a Mustang GT Convertable, a little over a year ago I managed to get a fully loaded Civic at a really good deal, way below invoice (less than the base line version!), but I had to quickly purchase it off the boat (still had the plastic on it!). I also managed to buy a fully loaded Mustang GT convertable, and at a very good price point too. Since I was able to get a good deal on the commuter car, I was able to spend more money on the Mustang options!
But that was before the economy tanked, which is why I am suggesting to buy American more today, as I have. So, I do buy American, and suggest more people do. That isn't hypocracy...
Posted by sparky | February 4, 2009 12:29 PM
Posted on February 4, 2009 12:29
Since CR tends to have a large following of sheep hanging on their every word, Suzuki dealers must be creaming their jeans today.
Oddly enough i almost agree with their final score on these vehicles. The Yaris is the only one i question, having not read the article either.
The Aveo is Daewoo crap, and Nissan reliability on individual platforms seems so spotty over the years. Maybe changing their name again will help.
Posted by Trooper Bri | February 4, 2009 2:46 PM
Posted on February 4, 2009 14:46
@ sparky
You're full of sh....
If American cars are so great, why aren't you rolling a Focus or a Cobalt as your commuter?
Posted by Noya | February 4, 2009 7:27 PM
Posted on February 4, 2009 19:27
@ Noya
Why the personal attach on spanky, and if you must, why not just point out how stupid he must be for not realizing the "American" auto companies were in trouble until a year ago...you know...with all those profits they made in 2006 and 2007....and the enormous profits they were forecasting for 2008.
I found another bright side to encomonic recovery, Spanky will go back to buying Japanese cars and shut up with brainless propaganda.
Posted by thetruth | February 4, 2009 8:18 PM
Posted on February 4, 2009 20:18
If you had the choice of a free Fit or a free Yaris, which would you pick? The Yaris is plain awful imo.
Posted by gh | February 5, 2009 12:40 PM
Posted on February 5, 2009 12:40
@thetruth and Noya.
Your confused, it's sparky not spanky. I don't think any of us knew how bad the economy was going to tank over a year ago, sure they were down in sales, but this is getting very serious. Knowning that now, I would of gladly bought a Focus rather than the Civic. They are both great cars for what they are. At least I buy American cars, over 18 of them so far.
And.... let us debate the pro/con and personal likes/dislikes of the automotive industry. It is one thing to say a car looks cheap, or doesn't appeal to you, but quite another to call someone brainless and stupid for disagreeing with you. Sure, I comment on the blind hate people have towards a certain car or company, I'm guilty of that myself, that is different than attacking people who don't agree with your point of view. Maybe that is how you treat your spouse or friends, but it has no place here.
TR, please get a moderator and verify user's with a password so they do not post under your ID, then allow a setting to put people on ignore...
I know two people immediately I would.
Posted by sparky | February 6, 2009 11:08 AM
Posted on February 6, 2009 11:08
My wife just bought a Fit Sport. The engine does buzz a bit at highway speeds. Other than that minor complaint, it is a fantastic car.
From a driver's perspective it's easy to explain why the Fit is better than the Yaris and Versa. It comes down to engineering. Road & Track has a good comparo on all of these cars, although it was of the previous generation Fit.
Posted by Incredible Color | February 11, 2009 12:36 PM
Posted on February 11, 2009 12:36
so informative, thanks to tell us.
Posted by woockyrooro | September 29, 2010 4:10 PM
Posted on September 29, 2010 16:10