The New Honda Fit Debuts As a Hybrid

The New Honda Fit Debuts As a Hybrid

Honda debuted its new two-motor hybrid system as part of their next-generation e:HEV technology at the Tokyo Motor Show last month. The automaker revealed little at the time. Still, they did state that the new hybrid system will take centre stage as its core hybrid technology of the future. They also divulged plans for a Honda Fit equipped with the new hybrid motor.


The Fit will be the first compact car to employ the new two-motor hybrid system as well as Honda's first vehicle featuring the Connect On-Board communication system. The Connect O-Board system lets owners remotely control several vehicle features, get vehicle maintenance information, and link to emergency services right from their smartphone.


Typically, Honda equips their hybrids with the same features as their gas-powered siblings, so here's a look at what the new Fit hybrid will most likely offer.




Interior Features


Along with Honda's new Connect On-Board communication system, the 2020 Fit's infotainment system also debuts a new touch screen with smartphone-like graphics and functions. Gas-powered models come with either a 160-watt or 180-watt AM/FM audio system with MP3/Windows Media Audio playback capability and four or six speakers. Both systems offer Wi-Fi tethering, Bluetooth connectivity, and Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Siri Eyes Free compatibility.


Standard or available convenience features include automatic climate control with air-filtration, a multi-angle rearview camera with dynamic guidelines, and a Proximity Key entry system with push-button start. All Fit models also come with a 60/40 split 2nd-row Magic Seat, manually adjustable driver and front passenger seats, and heated front seats (excluding the base DX trim). 


Safety


Many of Honda's advanced safety and driver-assist technologies have found their way to the Fit as either standard or available options. Features like collision mitigation braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist are now available on several trims. Active safety features like 4-wheel anti-lock brakes, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, and Vehicle Stability Assist with Traction Control comes standard on all trims and will undoubtedly be found on the electric-powered models.


The HondaLink Assist Automatic Emergency Response System also comes standard on all but the base DX trim and should be a staple on hybrid models. 


Suspension


All Fit models use identical suspensions, regardless of the trim level. Thanks to MacPherson struts and a stabilizer bar in the front and torsion-beam rear suspension, the Fit handles quite nicely, especially given its size. Electric power-assisted Rack-and-Pinion steering also comes standard on all Fit trims. DX and LX models get 15-inch wheels with full covers, while Sport, EX, and EX-L Navi models come with 16-inch alloy rims. All Honda vehicles also feature Honda's Next-Generation Advanced Compatibility Engineering body structure, so of course, the new Fit Hybrid will, as well. 


If things hold true to form, based on this year's Accord Hybrid, the new Fit will come equipped at or near the top tier EX trim. One thing for sure, however, like all Honda vehicles, the new Fit hybrid will come built with exceptional levels of quality, reliability, and dependability.