The Fit is both very economical and quite perky to drive, thanks to a 117-horsepower, 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine with i-VTEC variable valve timing system. The engine provides enough power even with the available automatic transmission, which has five speeds for better passing response and more relaxed highway cruising. A precise-shifting five-speed manual is standard, but for those who want the best of both worlds, the Fit Sport model, when fitted with the automatic transmission, features paddle-shifters alongside the steering wheel.

Fuel efficiency is, of course, a popular reason for considering the Fit; EPA mileage figures range up to 28 mpg city, 35 highway with the automatic.

With its front MacPherson strut and rear torsion beam setup, the Fit's suspension utilizes a common layout, yet handles nimbly. Ride quality is firm but also absorbent. The rack-and-pinion electric power steering system is especially good, with crisp turn in and a firm, direct feel of the road in tight corners.

Above all else, it's the Fit's interior that will wow shoppers. Front seats are ample for tall or large adults, an armrest is available in front and the back seat can actually seat adults, thanks to plenty of headroom all around and longer cushions than is customary for back seats. What's more, the Fit's rear seat folds neatly down to create a flat floor with just one continuous motion, with no need to even remove the rear headrest. The steering wheel adjusts for tilt and telescope, and there's a footrest for the driver. There's also an abundance of cupholders and cubbies.

Thanks to the versatile configuration, the fit is surprisingly commodious for large cargo items. With the seats down, there's 57.3 cubic feet of space-enough for items like a big-screen TV or cumbersome sports equipment-and there's no tall edge to lift over when loading items.

Also of note on the 2009 Fit is a new body structure that's not only much stiffer but also includes Honda's ACE body structure, which is designed for better compatibility with vehicles of different sizes. The Fit has done well in crash tests and is the only vehicle in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's ?Minicar' category to achieve Top Safety Pick status for 2009. Standard safety equipment on the Fit includes anti-lock brakes and active front headrests, along with front side and side-curtain airbags. Electronic stability control, a feature not usually seen on low-priced small cars, is available on the Fit Sport.

The Fit comes in two different models, Fit and Fit Sport. Even the base Fit includes a long list of features such as air conditioning plus power windows and locks-but the Fit Sport adds a long list of the most popular features like larger alloy wheels, remote entry, cruise control and a premium 160-watt sound system with USB input and MP3 capability. It's also dressed up a bit more, with aerodynamic spoilers and additional chrome trim outside, plus perforated leather trim for the steering wheel.

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The Fit appeals to frugal shoppers who want the most space and versatility in a very small, easy-to-park size. Thanks to its tall, upright body style and newly improved Magic Seat setup, the Fit is arguably the most space-efficient vehicle in its class and is one of the few vehicles its size with a back seat that's roomy enough for most adults. Performance is a step above many rivals, with nimble handling, a perky engine and an available five-speed automatic while most rivals offer a four-speed. Safety is also a strong point for the Fit, with standard anti-lock brakes across the model line and available electronic stability control on the Sport trim.

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