Honda Fit 1,5 Hybrid E-CVT
Fresh styling, improved driving performance and a new hybrid drivetrain broaden the appeal of Honda’s hatch. It has earned a name change in the process, too
Price: R469 900 Engine: 1,5-litre, 4-cylinder, petrol + electric motor Transmission: CVT Power: 72 kw @ 5 600 r/min + 80 kw electric Torque: 127 N.m @ 4 500 r/min + 253 N.m electric 0-100 km/h: 9,40 seconds* Top speed: 180 km/h* Fuel consumption: 3,70 L/100km* CO : 88 g/km Rivals: Ford Fiesta, Hyundai i20, Mazda 2,
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Opel Corsa, Peugeot 208, Volkswagen Polo + practicality; driving refinement; build quality no manual transmission
Having earned accolades such as “the most left-brain vehicle in the segment” and “the smartest B-segment hatchback ever” – yes, those are actual awards – the Honda Jazz has chiselled a strong reputation for itself. With global sales exceeding five million vehicles, its rational appeal is unquestioned but with the new model, Honda has focused on improving its more emotive attributes – styling, driving performance and technology – to expand its appeal.
Honda SA reckoned the changes justified a new name and decided on Honda Fit, the name used in other markets like the US. The press launch provided us with the opportunity to confirm whether the new vehicle delivers on that promise.
Honda was never going to deviate from the established configuration which maximises interior space and versatility, all while retaining the neat monoform profile. That said, a forward-leaning tailgate and Dpillar have addressed the boxy look of the rear-end, while the lower roofline and larger, horizontal taillight clusters make the vehicle appear much wider than before. Up front, the short bonnet rolls neatly towards the slim grille aperture and the prominent headlamps include wide U-shaped daytime running lights. Stylish 16-inch alloy wheels come fitted to all models.
Settling into the supportive driver’s seat, first impressions are
of space and airiness, emphasised by the uncluttered sweep of the new flat-topped dash that features a seven-inch TFT instrument cluster and soft-touch materials on the cabin-facing surfaces. This is complemented by the same pleasingly upmarketfeeling two-spoke steering wheel fitted to the Honda e electric vehicle, which includes menu controls for the instrument cluster. A nine-inch central touchscreen infotainment system – fitted to all but the entry Comfort grade – is both Apple Carplay and Android Auto compatible with connection via wireless or the four USB ports front and rear. Sensibly, Honda has reverted to easy-to-reach knobs as opposed to a touchscreen for volume and ventilation controls. A Jazz signature, the unique rear Magic Seat configuration is retained, providing more rear legroom and load space than many larger crossover vehicles.
The primary drivetrain is a new 1,5-litre DOHC VTEC petrol engine, an evolution of the previous engine, offering a broader torque curve and improved economy. Combined with CVT only, it is offered in Comfort, Elegance and Executive trim.
Marking Honda’s re-entry into the hybrid market, its rangetopping model adds the Honda Sensing suite of safety features that includes adaptive cruise control, collision-mitigating braking and lane-keeping assist.
The new hybrid drivetrain features a 1,5-litre petrol engine combined with two electric motors – one acting as a generator and the other as the drive motor – and a lithium-ion battery, all operated by an intelligent power controller. Depending on driver demand and road conditions, it seamlessly switches between EV Drive and Hybrid Drive, with the engine driving the generator that powers the traction motor; and lastly, Engine Drive, where the engine connects directly to the driven wheels via a single-speed transmission. The battery is recharged by the generator driven by the engine or through regenerative braking.
Driving rain and strong winds on the launch kept speeds in check but highlighted the abilities of both 1,5 Elegance and E:HEV models in difficult conditions. Improved visibility provided by slimmer A-pillars was quickly confirmed and responsive steering allowed precise corrections in gusting crosswinds. Overall noise levels and refinement were up with the best in class; ride quality and bump absorption on rough road surfaces was particularly impressive.
The improved 1,5-litre enginecvt combination provided classcompetitive performance, with careful use of the throttle allowing brisk acceleration while limiting
CVT drone. With its electric motor providing instant torque, the E:HEV was responsive, operating near-silently in EV mode in lowspeed traffic. As speed increased and more acceleration was required, the petrol engine seamlessly engaged to generate additional urge; at highway speeds, the drivetrain felt entirely conventional with the engine running continuously.
So, is the new Fit indeed fit for purpose? Despite only a brief acquaintance, we would say most definitely. It retains its infamous practicality, offers built-in-japan quality that the marque so desperately needs, is more rewarding to drive than ever before and claimed consumption of 3,70 L/100km provides the hybrid with a strong case for consideration.