2009 Honda Fit

The first thing you'll notice about the new 2009 Honda Fit is its more stylish and aero look.

The Fit's chassis has been completely redesigned and upgraded in almost every way. In true Honda form, it's as if Honda has created a 100-point check list and targeted an improvement for every item.

Garnering almost universal acclaim is the 2009 Honda Fits spacious interior. We've been able to cram everything from a few dog crates to three six-foot adults (complete with piles of hockey gear) into the tiny Fit with room to spare.

At 75 mph in fifth gear, it buzzes along at a substantial 3500 rpm, increasing the Honda Fit's fuel consumption and our longing for a sixth gear.

Now, more than ever, the Honda Fit seems appropriate. It's one of the few efficient small cars without excuses, without compromises, and without apologies - it behaves like a real automobile, it's at least a little entertaining to drive, and it doesn't feel as cheap as it is.

The best thing about the 2009 Honda Fit is the amount of storage space it affords, despite its being a compact vehicle. Fold down the rear seats, and the storage space seems to equal that of many small SUVs.

The Fit's mission profile may appear to place efficiency above all else, but such a characterization sells the Fit way short. It's an absolute ball to drive.

Stopping is the 2009 Fit's weakest performance parameter; despite having just 2521 lb to rein in, the brakes need 138 ft for 60-to-0-mph stops.

In driving dynamics and versatility, this diminutive Honda shames larger econocars (we won't mention names, but they rhyme with "Corolla" and "Vibe") costing more and delivering poorer economy. It belongs on any short list -- though it gives back so large it might not even Fit.

Ride quality is much improved thanks to a stiffer body structure and softer rear springs that keep harsh bumps from shuddering through the entire cabin. The suspension still serves up understeer when you would expect it, but the car's low weight and resistance to body roll encourage you to find where those limits are and then tease them on twisty roads.

The 2009 Honda Fit's true mission lies in its ability to transport people, gear, or a combination of both in one of the most efficient packages on the market.

Simply put, the Honda Fit fits what many people actually need from their cars.

The 2009 Honda Fit is fuel efficient, earning an EPA-estimated 27/33 mpg City/Highway. The 1.5-liter engine delivers 117-horsepower at 6600 rpm and 106 pound-feet of torque at 4800 rpm.

Though the Fit has always been considered modern, few people considered the outgoing 2008 model stylish.

The materials feel more ample and durable, and the center stack layout is among the easiest, most intuitively placed schemes we've seen in some time.

Space inside the cabin ranges is almost-spacious in front and adequate in back, especially for a car this size. Surprisingly, the 2009 Fit offers slightly more cargo volume than even the spacious Nissan Versa.

The 2009 Fit is fun to drive. For everyday driving it's an obedient and comfortable conveyance, thanks to new seats and suspension changes that smoothed out the previous model's ride.

Fit delivers an EPA-estimated 27/30 miles per gallon City/Highway, so it's a nice fit between fun-to-drive and frugality.

Case in point: on twisty corners, the Fit is much more fun, and almost as efficient as the Scion xD or Nissan Versa.

Perhaps the most unsettling aspect of driving the Fit is the noise: the engine squeals when you hammer the throttle, whining and moaning its displeasure even during normal driving situations, like accelerating from a stop light. You get a more muted response from the competition.

The Honda Fit offers a compelling balance of economy, fun, interior convenience and comfort. It offers engineering excellence and value. From a healthy list of standard safety equipment to multiple seat configurations and ample storage room, the Fit simplifies your life.