The
Honda Jazz is a five-door
hatchbackA Hatchback is a car body style incorporating a shared passenger and cargo volume, with rearmost accessibility via a rear third or fifth door, typically a top-hinged liftgate—and features such as fold-down rear seats to enable flexibility within the shared passenger/cargo volume. As a two-box...
subcompactSubcompact car is a North American term used to describe automobiles whose class size is smaller than that of a compact car, usually not exceeding in length, but larger than a microcar...
manufactured by the
Hondais a Japanese public multinational corporation primarily known as a manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles.Honda has been the world's largest motorcycle manufacturer since 1959, as well as the world's largest manufacturer of internal combustion engines measured by volume, producing more than...
Motor Company of Japan, first introduced in June 2001 and is now in its second generation. The Jazz shares Honda's
Global Small Car PlatformAn automobile platform is a shared set of common design, engineering, and production efforts, as well as major components over a number of outwardly distinct models and even types of automobiles, often from different, but related marques...
with the
City/Fit AriaThe Honda City is a subcompact car manufactured by the Japanese manufacturer Honda since 1981. Originally made for the Japanese, European and Australasian markets, the City was retired without replacement in 1994...
,
AirwaveThe Honda Airwave is a subcompact car produced by the Japanese automaker Honda since 2005. It is a five-door station wagon version of the City / Fit Aria and Fit/Jazz, which are a sedan and a hatchback respectively. The Airwave is built on the Global Small Car platform; however, unlike the City and...
/Partner,
MobilioThe Honda Mobilio was a seven-seater mini MPV produced by Japanese automaker Honda for its domestic market from 2001 to 2008. It was the second in Honda's Small Max series. It also took Honda's Global Small Platform and their i-DSI engine. Among its features were sliding doors that could open for...
,
Mobilio SpikeThe Honda Mobilio Spike was a 1.5L compact-wagon that was designed with recreational activities in mind. The Mobilio Spike was released in Japan on September 19, 2002 and was Honda’s third model in the Small Max series. The Mobilio, according to Honda, attained the highest fuel rating in the...
,
FreedThe Honda Freed is a Mini MPV produced by the Japanese automaker Honda since 2008. The vehicle is a replacement for the Honda Mobilio. The Freed is based on the Jazz/Fit platform. Three different versions of the Freed are available: a seven-seat version which features captain’s seats in the second...
and Freed Spike. In Japan, the Jazz and the Airwave were sold at
Honda Clio, replacing the
Honda LogoThe Honda Logo series GA3 and GA5 is a supermini produced by the Japanese automaker Honda between 1996 and 2001. The Logo was available as a three-door and five-door hatchback. It was sold in the United Kingdom from 2000 until 2001. It was a platform mate to the Honda Capa and replaced the Honda...
, while the Freed, Mobilio and Mobilio Spike were sold at
Honda Primo.
In both generations and all its global iterations, the Fit features an interior packaging design which places the fuel tank under the front seat—enabling rear seats to fold flat and to provide a flexible and regularized cargo volume.
The nameplate
Jazz is used in Europe, some parts of Asia, Australia, Oceania, the Middle East, and Africa—while the name "Fit" is used in Japan, China, and the Americas. It is sold in approximately 115 countries and produced at ten plants in eight countries/regions.
, worldwide cumulative sales were 3.5 million.
First generation
The Honda Fit debuted in June 2001 in Japan and immediately became a big hit. By December 2001, it had outsold the Toyota Corolla, and ranked first in sales for nine out of twelve months in 2002. It subsequently was introduced in Europe (early 2002), Australia (late 2002), South America (early 2003), South Africa and South-East Asia (2003), China (Sep 2004), and Mexico (late 2005).
A production model for the United States and Canada debuted on January 8, 2006 at the
North American International Auto ShowThe North American International Auto Show is an annual auto show held in Detroit, Michigan at Cobo Center, usually in January. It is among the largest auto shows in North America.-History:...
in Detroit. The car was released in Canada on April 3, 2006, and in the U.S. on April 20, 2006 as a 2007 model year car. In the North American markets, the first generation Fit was replaced after only two model years by a new 2009 model, which was released for Japan in November 2007 as a 2008 model. Subsequent iterations will maintain the same platforms worldwide.
Honda originally intended to name the car "Fitta", but shortened the name in some markets, and renamed it completely in others, upon discovering that in several Nordic languages,
fitta is a popular and very vulgar slang word for "vagina".
Models
The Fit is sold in 6 variations. All Fit/Jazz models throughout the world utilize one of seven or more distinct codes. They are found in the vehicle’s identification number (
VINVin may refer to:*Voltage input, an alternative form for Vin-People:*Vin Diesel*Vin Scully*Vin Suprynowicz*Vin, the name of a character from the video games Jak II and Jak 3*a diminutive of the name "Vincent"...
):
Fit/Jazz
- GD1: 1.3 L L13A i-DSI I4 engine 2WD (Europe: 1.4L)
- GD2: 1.3 L L13A i-DSI I4 engine 4WD (Japan only)
- GD3: 1.5 L L15A VTEC I4 engine 2WD
- GD4: 1.5 L L15A VTEC I4 engine 4WD (Japan only)
- GD5: 1.2 L L12A I4 engine (Europe)
- GE3: 1.3 L L13A i-DSI I4 engine 2WD (2007 Europe 1.4L model. Made in China)
City/Fit AriaThe Honda City is a subcompact car manufactured by the Japanese manufacturer Honda since 1981. Originally made for the Japanese, European and Australasian markets, the City was retired without replacement in 1994...
:
- GD6: 1.3 L L13A i-DSI I4 engine 2WD (Fit-Aria)
- GD7: 1.3 L L13A i-DSI I4 engine 4WD (Fit-Aria)
- GD8: 1.5 L L15A i-DSI I4 engine 2WD (Fit-Aria)
- GD9: 1.5 L L15A i-DSI I4 engine 4WD (Fit-Aria)
Drivetrain and platform
Depending on the region, the Fit is available with a 1.2, 1.3 (in Europe referred as 1.4L model), 1.5 liter i-DSI
engineAn engine or motor is a machine designed to convert energy into useful mechanical motion. Heat engines, including internal combustion engines and external combustion engines burn a fuel to create heat which is then used to create motion...
, or 1.5 liter
VTECVTEC is a valvetrain system developed by Honda to improve the volumetric efficiency of a four-stroke internal combustion engine. The VTEC system uses two camshaft profiles and electronically selects between the profiles. It was invented by Honda R&D engineer Ikuo Kajitani, and was the first system...
engine. All four engines are based on Honda’s
L-seriesThe L-series is a 4-cylinder engine created by Honda and introduced in 2001. It has 1.2, 1.3, and 1.5 L displacement variants, which utilize the names L12A, L13A, and L15A. Depending on the region, these engines are sold throughout the world in the 5-door Fit/Jazz hatchback and the 4-door Fit...
engine family. The eight-valve i-DSI (intelligent dual and sequential) engines use two
spark plugA spark plug is an electrical device that fits into the cylinder head of some internal combustion engines and ignites compressed fuels such as aerosol, gasoline, ethanol, and liquefied petroleum gas by means of an electric spark.Spark plugs have an insulated central electrode which is connected by...
s per
cylinderA cylinder is the central working part of a reciprocating engine or pump, the space in which a piston travels. Multiple cylinders are commonly arranged side by side in a bank, or engine block, which is typically cast from aluminum or cast iron before receiving precision machine work...
, allowing
gasolineGasoline , or petrol , is a toxic, translucent, petroleum-derived liquid that is primarily used as a fuel in internal combustion engines. It consists mostly of organic compounds obtained by the fractional distillation of petroleum, enhanced with a variety of additives. Some gasolines also contain...
to burn more completely; therefore, fuel consumption and emissions are reduced while maximum torque at mid-range rpm is maintained. The 1.5 L VTEC engine has the typical 16-valve configuration that can maximize output at high rpm.
Honda Fit's L-series of engines also provides the castings and reciprocating mass for Honda Marine’s 75 and 90 hp outboard motors, the BF75 and the BF90.
The engines are mated to a five-speed
manualA manual transmission, also known as a manual gearbox or standard transmission is a type of transmission used in motor vehicle applications...
, five-speed
automaticAn automatic transmission is one type of motor vehicle transmission that can automatically change gear ratios as the vehicle moves, freeing the driver from having to shift gears manually...
, or
continuously variable transmission (CVT)A continuously variable transmission is a transmission that can change steplessly through an infinite number of effective gear ratios between maximum and minimum values. This contrasts with other mechanical transmissions that offer a fixed number of gear ratios...
, depending on the region (CVT not offered in United States). Two forms of the CVT are offered: the regular, and the CVT-7. The CVT-7 offers a smooth, continuous flow of power, or seven simulated "gears" controlled by paddle shifters on the steering column.
The Fit uses Honda's Global Small Car platform, which is also used by the
Fit Aria/CityThe Honda City is a subcompact car manufactured by the Japanese manufacturer Honda since 1981. Originally made for the Japanese, European and Australasian markets, the City was retired without replacement in 1994...
(a sedan version of the Fit), the
AirwaveThe Honda Airwave is a subcompact car produced by the Japanese automaker Honda since 2005. It is a five-door station wagon version of the City / Fit Aria and Fit/Jazz, which are a sedan and a hatchback respectively. The Airwave is built on the Global Small Car platform; however, unlike the City and...
(a
station wagonA station wagon is a body style variant of a sedan/saloon with its roof extended rearward over a shared passenger/cargo volume with access at the back via a third or fifth door , instead of a trunk lid...
version of the Fit Aria/City), the
MobilioThe Honda Mobilio was a seven-seater mini MPV produced by Japanese automaker Honda for its domestic market from 2001 to 2008. It was the second in Honda's Small Max series. It also took Honda's Global Small Platform and their i-DSI engine. Among its features were sliding doors that could open for...
, and the
Mobilio SpikeThe Honda Mobilio Spike was a 1.5L compact-wagon that was designed with recreational activities in mind. The Mobilio Spike was released in Japan on September 19, 2002 and was Honda’s third model in the Small Max series. The Mobilio, according to Honda, attained the highest fuel rating in the...
.
Seating and cargo
The Fit's fuel tank location under the front rather than rear seats — combined with a compact, semi-independent, H-shaped
torsion beam rear suspensionthumb|250px|A front [[VW Beetle]] suspension cross-sectionA torsion bar suspension, also known as a torsion spring suspension or torsion beam suspension, is a general term for any vehicle suspension that uses a torsion bar as its main weight bearing spring...
— allows for a lower load platform and increased cargo volume. Noted for its "class leading utilization of interior space and maximum flexibility for people or cargo," the Fit offered approximately twice the storage space behind its rear seat compared with the
Toyota YarisThe Toyota Yaris is a subcompact car produced by Toyota since 1999. Between 1999 and 2005, some markets received the same vehicles under the Toyota Echo name...
hatchback.
Ultra Seat: The fuel tank and rear suspension layout also allows a multiple-mode seating system, marketed by Honda as
Ultra Seat (Asia, Oceanica) and
Magic Seat (North America), with four seating modes — and a fifth in certain markets:
- Normal: seats are in their normal position with seating for five.
- Utility: Either section (or both) of the 60:40 split rear seat folds and lowers onto itself, creating a flat load surface and increased cargo area.
- Long: The rear seat behind the passenger folds down similar to utility mode, but the front passenger seat folds backward, leaving an area that can hold items as long as 2.4 meters (7.9 ft).
- Tall: Either section (or both) of the rear seat cushion fold up against the rear seat back, allowing for an area of 1.28 meters (4.2 ft) in height.
- Refresh: With the headrest of the front seat removed, the front seat back can be folded down to form a lounge-style sitting area. (available in certain markets)
According to the Fit's chief engineer, Kohei Hitomi, the Magic/Ultra seating system's design "came about after the design team had spent long hours watching people in supermarkets and how they stored their things."
Ultra Luggage: In certain markets, Honda offers the Fit/Jazz without a spare tire, a system marketed as Ultra Luggage, where the spare tire well is used as part of a 'Tall' mode cargo area behind the rear seats. A flexible flap allows three configurations of rear storage: Regular, Tall and Upper/Lower mode.
Production
The first generation Fit was produced in six countries,
Suzukais a city located in Mie, Japan.As of 2011, the city has an estimated population of 198,716 and the density of 1,020 people per km². The total area is 194.67 km².Located about 83 km east from Nara, and 52 km southwest from Nagoya.-History:...
(Japan),
SumaréSumaré is a city in the State of São Paulo, Brazil. The population in 2004 was 225,308 and the area is 153.44 km². The elevation is 583 m. Sumaré was founded in 1868, after being upgraded to a city. Its old name was Rebouças. Major José Antonio Bacchim/2005/2008.- History :In the mid of 18th...
(Brazil),
GuangzhouGuangzhou , known historically as Canton or Kwangchow, is the capital and largest city of the Guangdong province in the People's Republic of China. Located in southern China on the Pearl River, about north-northwest of Hong Kong, Guangzhou is a key national transportation hub and trading port...
(China),
AyutthayaAyutthaya city is the capital of Ayutthaya province in Thailand. Located in the valley of the Chao Phraya River. The city was founded in 1350 by King U Thong, who went there to escape a smallpox outbreak in Lop Buri and proclaimed it the capital of his kingdom, often referred to as the Ayutthaya...
(Thailand),
KarawangKarawang is the capital of the Karawang Regency of West Java, Indonesia. It is located 32 miles east of Jakarta. Karawang has a population of 2,150,610 ....
(Indonesia) and the Philippines. Models produced in Japan were for Honda's home market, Europe, some Asian markets, Australia (till the end of 2005), Canada and the United States. Models for the Malaysian, Singaporean and Vietnamese markets are produced in Thailand. The Brazilian factory supplied Mexico, all of
Latin AmericaLatin America is a region of the Americas where Romance languages – particularly Spanish and Portuguese, and variably French – are primarily spoken. Latin America has an area of approximately 21,069,500 km² , almost 3.9% of the Earth's surface or 14.1% of its land surface area...
and the
CaribbeanThe Caribbean is a crescent-shaped group of islands more than 2,000 miles long separating the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea, to the west and south, from the Atlantic Ocean, to the east and north...
. Chinese models were sold in mainland China, and products from a dedicated export plant were exported to some left-hand-drive European markets, while Jazz models in Hong Kong were imported from Japan.
Regions
The Fit is marketed in different ways and has different characteristics throughout the world, depending on which region it is sold in.
Japan
Two engines (1.3 i-DSI and 1.5 VTEC) were offered, each with a number of trim lines ranging from the basic "Y" to the sporty "S". The 1.3 L i-DSI was available with only the regular CVT automatic. The 1.5 L VTEC model with the CVT-7 was added in September 2002. A five-speed
manualA manual transmission, also known as a manual gearbox or standard transmission is a type of transmission used in motor vehicle applications...
was added in June 2004 for FWD model with the larger engine. Unique to the Japanese market, the Fit is also available in
4WDThe Four Wheel Drive Auto Company, more often known as Four Wheel Drive or just FWD, was founded in 1909 in Clintonville, Wisconsin, as the Badger Four-Wheel Drive Auto Company by Otto Zachow and William Besserdich.-History:...
. Starting at a price of about JPY1,123,000 is the basic 1.3Y model. At the top of the range is the 1.5W four wheel drive version for JPY1,743,000. A bewildering range of options and accessories are available at most levels, including Honda's HDD GPS Navigation System with its 6.5 inches (165.1 mm) color screen. This system incorporates TV and FM radio.
Europe
Like Japan, the European market also has two engines available. The European-only 1.2 i-DSI is offered as the base model in many countries, and can be purchased only with a five-speed
manual transmissionA manual transmission, also known as a manual gearbox or standard transmission is a type of transmission used in motor vehicle applications...
. The 1.4 i-DSI is identical to the 1,339 cc 1.3 i-DSI sold in Japan, but marketed as a 1.4 L to differentiate it from the smaller 1.2 L engine (ironically, at 1,244 cc, it is closer to 1.3 L than the bigger one is to 1.4 L). 1.4 L models started out well-equipped with the 5-speed manual standard and the CVT-7 available as an option.
All European models have
ABSAn anti-lock braking system is a safety system that allows the wheels on a motor vehicle to continue interacting tractively with the road surface as directed by driver steering inputs while braking, preventing the wheels from locking up and therefore avoiding skidding.An ABS generally offers...
with disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes or disc brakes on the rear ones. Side airbags are standard on some high end models.
The car has a good reputation in Europe with the UK's biggest automotive survey, performed by the motoring show
Top GearTop Gear is a British television series about motor vehicles, primarily cars. It began in 1977 as a conventional motoring magazine show. Over time, and especially since a relaunch in 2002, it has developed a quirky, humorous style...
, revealing that the Honda Jazz was the second best vehicle on UK roads (after the
Honda S2000The Honda S2000 is a roadster that was manufactured by the Japanese automaker Honda Motor Company. It was launched in April 1999 and was created to celebrate the company's 50th anniversary. The car was first shown as a concept at the Tokyo Motor Show in 1995, following which it was launched in...
), as voted by UK car owners in 2006. The popularity of the Jazz has made it Honda's best-selling model in the region, comprising 30% of all European Honda sales.
Top GearTop Gear is a British television series about motor vehicles, primarily cars. It began in 1977 as a conventional motoring magazine show. Over time, and especially since a relaunch in 2002, it has developed a quirky, humorous style...
also went so far as to state that Honda Jazz (along with the Toyota Yaris) is the closest to reality car that money can buy, meaning that a Honda Jazz can cover the majority of the automotive needs that man has today.
China
Local production and sale of the Fit (Hatchback) in China started in September 2004, roughly one year after the launch of the sedan version 'Fit saloon' (City/Fit Aria) in September 2003. The trims are similar to those in Japan; with the combination of 1.3 i-DSI, 1.5 VTEC, five-speed manual, and CVT, there are four models in total.
United States and Canada
The Fit went on sale in the United States and Canada in April 2006 for model year 2007, replacing the
CivicThe Honda Civic is a line of subcompact and subsequently compact cars made and manufactured by Honda. The Civic, along with the Accord and Prelude, comprised Honda's vehicles sold in North America until the 1990s, when the model lineup was expanded...
hatchback for North America and becoming that market's chief entry-level subcompact. The Civic continues to grow in size and price and was reclassified as a compact (larger than a subcompact) in 2011.
In keeping with Honda's safety initiative, the Fit was offered in North America with power windows, standard side airbags, side-curtain airbags, and ABS, in addition to the mandatory front airbags. Due to differing safety regulations, North American Fits have larger bumpers, and a longer front clip, than the rest of the world, resulting in a slight increase in overall length.
For the 2008 model, US models feature the
Tire Pressure Monitoring System-General:A Tire Pressure Monitoring System is a system designed to monitor the air pressure inside the pneumatic tires on various types of vehicles...
(TPMS) to alert the driver of low pressure in any of the four stock wheels. Unlike some systems, the system in the 2008 Fit notifies the driver that a tire is low, but not which tire. The Fit narrowly missed qualifying for the Canadian government's $1,000 rebate, which is only offered for cars that meet the new federal fuel efficiency rating.
Honda Canada Inc.Honda Canada Inc. is the Canadian division of the Honda Motor Company. Founded in 1969, Honda has been building cars in Canada since 1986. The head office is in Toronto, Ontario.-Corporate head office:...
decided to reimburse consumers the rebate for 2007, and a revision to the federal ratings allowed the 2008 Fit to qualify for the $1,000 rebate.
The Fit was offered in two variants in the United States (Base and Sport), and three in Canada (DX, LX and Sport). Differences were primarily limited to cosmetics and standard equipment, since all models shared the same 1.5
L
109
hpHorsepower is the name of several units of measurement of power. The most common definitions equal between 735.5 and 750 watts.Horsepower was originally defined to compare the output of steam engines with the power of draft horses in continuous operation. The unit was widely adopted to measure the...
(81 kW) engine and standard five-speed manual transmission. A conventional five-speed
automatic transmissionAn automatic transmission is one type of motor vehicle transmission that can automatically change gear ratios as the vehicle moves, freeing the driver from having to shift gears manually...
was optional, instead of the CVT found throughout the rest of the world. The Fit Sport received paddle shifters mounted behind the steering-wheel when ordered with the automatic.
For 2006, 27,934 Fits were sold in the United States. A total
of 56,432 Fits were sold in the United States in 2007.
The 2008 Honda Fit was largely unchanged from the 2007 with the exception of the TPMS and new windshield wipers that abandon the large rubber blade design to a more traditional rigid plastic with thin rubber blade design. MSRP was also increased by roughly US$100. Total sales in the United States for the year were 79,794, an increase of almost 41% over previous year.
Reception
Honda marketed the Fit as "Small is the New Big".
Car and Driver magazine described that "
[n]ot only is it endowed with an impressive array of standard features and an upscale interior, but its dynamics rival the responses of cars with much fancier pedigrees and price tags." The magazine even cited its lane-change number of 71.4 mph edged the best run by a Ferrari F430 Spider F1 tested.
And the car was included in Car and Driver's 10 Best Lists for three times.
In May 2006, Fit was placed first in a
Car and DriverCar and Driver is an American automotive enthusiast magazine. Its total circulation is 1.31 million. It is owned by Hearst Magazines, who purchased prior owner Hachette Filipacchi Media U.S. in 2011...
comparison of seven
economy carAn economy car is an automobile that is designed for low cost operation. Typical economy cars are small, light weight, and inexpensive to buy. Economy car designers are forced by stringent design constraints to be inventive...
s that included Nissan Versa and Toyota Yaris.
Consumer Guide said in its review, "While prices seem steep for a subcompact (compared to the
Toyota YarisThe Toyota Yaris is a subcompact car produced by Toyota since 1999. Between 1999 and 2005, some markets received the same vehicles under the Toyota Echo name...
and Nissan Versa), this is one in name and exterior size only; it's really a small wagon that challenges some compact SUVs for room while getting significantly better fuel economy".
Mexico
Fit, sourced from Brazil, was launched in October 2005.
Brazil
Honda started local production and sale of Fit in April 2003 when Brazil became the second production base, after Japan, for Fit. In Brazil, though initially was available with the 1.3 L i-DSI engine only, eventually the Fit has the same engines as the Japanese models (all Brazilian Honda cars have engines imported from Japan) and there are three trim levels available. Base model LX features the 1.35 i-DSI engine (which is marketed as 1.4 in Brazil) and driver side airbag. The second model in the range, the LXL, features the same engine from the LX, but adds some extra equipment: passenger side airbag and ABS. Top model EX has essentially the same equipment as the LXL, but comes with the 1.5 VTEC engine. All models are available with the five-speed manual or the regular CVT automatic. There are neither side airbags nor side curtains available for the Brazilian version. Also, the radio antenna is positioned differently, as it is near the front of the roof. Honda started selling the 2007 model in February 2006 with new bumpers and some cosmetic changes.
Alcohol (ethanol) and gasoline hybrid Fit: Honda Brazil will start the sales in mid-December 2006 only for 1.35 i-DSI. 80 hp at 100% gasoline and 83 hp at 100% alcohol. It also works with any intermediary mix rate. There is an additional gasoline fuel tank on the right side under the triangle window for low temperature starts. This ensures a good start on cold days if the main tank has been filled with alcohol.
Honda Fit was awarded by
Quatro Rodas magazine as Best Buy in 2005 and 2006, and as the car with happiest buyers in 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2007.
Chile
All Honda Fits sold in Chile are built in Brazil, except for a few early 2004 models. Until 2007, all three Brazilian trim levels were available LX, LXL and EX, with five-speed manual or CVT automatic transmissions, but for 2008 models, the 1.5 liter 16-valve VTEC engine is no longer available, while the Brazilian LXL, with 1.35 liter 8-valve i-DSI engine, is sold as EX.
No alcohol powered engines are available in Chile.
Australia
The Jazz/Fit offering in Australia follows, to a degree, the Japanese versions (excluding the 4WD models), and was released in Australia in October 2002.
The base model GLi is powered by a 1.34 litre i-DSI engine, and includes air-conditioning, a CD player, two front airbags, ABS brakes, EBD, a trip computer, remote central locking, a transponder coded immobilizer, power steering, windows and mirrors. Standard is a five-speed manual gearbox, with the CVT auto being an optional extra.
The VTi adds the 1.5 litre VTEC engine, "sports" trim, and side mirror-mounted turning indicators. Optional is the 7-speed version of the CVT auto with Formula 1 inspired gear shift paddles on the steering wheel; the VTi-S has a "sports" body kit, fog lamps, and 15 inches (381 mm) alloy wheels.
A "dot" on the "J" in Jazz on the rear of the first-generation model indicates whether it is powered by a 1.5 or 1.3-liter engine. The 1.5 litter version (VTi) has a blue dot and 1.3 litre version (GLi) has a red dot. The second-generation models can be differentiated by the presence (VTi) or absence (GLi) of audio controls on the steering wheel. The body kit for the VTi-S has changed since its introduction in 2003. The picture to the right illustrates the differences. The white Jazz VTi-S in the middle is a December 2003 model, while the left silver Jazz is a 2004 VTi with optional bodykit, the right silver Jazz is a 2004 model VTi-S.
Since its introduction to Australia, the Jazz has been imported from Japan. However in late 2005, Honda Australia began importing the Jazz from Thailand. The cheaper production costs allowed Honda to make significant price cuts across the Jazz range, although the color range has been reduced to six (compared to 12 in Japan).
In 2006, the Australian Honda Jazz received a few minor cosmetic facelift. At this stage a free trade agreement was established between Australia and Thailand which resulted all Australian Honda Jazz models being made from the Thailand factory. The model and trip variants remained the same excluding the cosmetic changes.
All models were upgraded to LED tail lamps as standard.
All 1.3 L Gli Jazz has the antenna mounted at the front behind just behind the front windscreen
The VTi 1.5 L engine and body remained the same with the addition of a sports collapsible antenna mounting on the rear roof. The CVT paddle shift system was altered for easier use. The paddle system is down gears on the left and up gears on the right. The previous model had a shifter for both up down at the 3 o'clock and 9 o'clock positions.
The VTi-S is mechanically similar to the VTi but has a sports body kit. In addition, the LED tail lamps are smoked giving a more 'sporty' look.
Malaysia
Fit/Jazz in Malaysia is available in two variants, the 1.5 i-DSI and 1.5
VTECVTEC is a valvetrain system developed by Honda to improve the volumetric efficiency of a four-stroke internal combustion engine. The VTEC system uses two camshaft profiles and electronically selects between the profiles. It was invented by Honda R&D engineer Ikuo Kajitani, and was the first system...
. Both of them are equipped with CVT-7 and having 2WD driving the front wheels. No manual transmission is offered. Unlike the Australian market which had different trims for the Jazz e.g. (GLi (Base Model with 1.3 motor), VTi (1.5 VTEC motor without Bodykit) and VTi-S (Sports Model with Bodykit)), the Malaysian Jazz models were either the 1.3 iDSi or the 1.5 VTEC. Choices now are 1.4 iDSi and 1.5 VTEC. The VTEC model is equipped with Honda Modulo Bodykit.
Standard equipment on both models includes air-conditioning, driver and front passenger air-bags, CD/radio headunit, ABS brakes, EBD, trip computer, central locking, power-assisted windows, power-assisted side mirrors, power-assisted steering, reflector halogen headlamps and Ultra/Magic folding seats. Optional extras can be purchased from Honda Dealers/Service Centers all around Malaysia at retail price. A three-year warranty is standard for all Jazz models purchased from authorized Honda dealers in Malaysia.
Initially the Jazz was sold as a CBU model (fully imported from Japan). The variants included the 1.3 iDSi and the 1.5 VTEC model. Subsequently Malaysia received units that were built in Thailand. The main and most noticeable difference were rear disc brakes. Japanese models incorporated rear drum brakes.
Early 2006 saw the facelift of the Jazz (which was introduced earlier in Japan). The facelifted version included new front fascia and bumpers, new rear bumper, new side skirts, side mirror mounted indicators/turn signals, rear LED brake lights, rear LED third brake light, body colored housing headlamps and minor interior changes. The motor remains unchanged.
Singapore
Sold as the Jazz in Singapore by the authorised dealer and Fit by parallel importers. Only one variant is offered 1.4 i-DSI as the Jazz version.
FF layoutIn automotive design, an FF, or Front-engine, Front-wheel drive layout places both the internal combustion engine and driven roadwheels at the front of the vehicle.-Usage implications:...
with CVT or five-speed manual transmission offered. The 2008 Fit comes in 1.3 L and 1.5 L variants.
The new Honda Jazz 2009 comes in 1.3 L and 1.5 L versions from the authorised dealer.
Jazz's Engine available in Singapore
- L4 eight valves i-DSI : Max Power 65 kW at 5,500 rpm , Max Torque 131 newton metre at 2,700 rpm
South Africa
Sold as the Jazz in
South AfricaThe Republic of South Africa is a country in southern Africa. Located at the southern tip of Africa, it is divided into nine provinces, with of coastline on the Atlantic and Indian oceans...
, it is available with the 1.3 i-DSI (badged as a 1.4) or 1.5 VTEC engines both offered with either manual or CVT (automatic) transmission.
Thailand
Introduced in November 2003 for local production and sold as the Jazz in Thailand. Thailand became the third production base to produce Fit, after Japan and Brazil. Initially it was available only with a 1.5 L i-DSI engine which was shared with City (Fit Aria), five-speed manual transmission or CVT. It is available in two variants, the 1.5 i-DSI and 1.5
VTECVTEC is a valvetrain system developed by Honda to improve the volumetric efficiency of a four-stroke internal combustion engine. The VTEC system uses two camshaft profiles and electronically selects between the profiles. It was invented by Honda R&D engineer Ikuo Kajitani, and was the first system...
. Both of them are
FF layoutIn automotive design, an FF, or Front-engine, Front-wheel drive layout places both the internal combustion engine and driven roadwheels at the front of the vehicle.-Usage implications:...
with CVT-7 or five-speed manual transmission offered.
Jazz's Engine available in Thailand
- L4 8 valves i-DSI : Max Power 65 kW at 5,500 rpm , Max Torque 131 newton metre at 2,700 rpm
- L4 16 valves VTEC
VTEC is a valvetrain system developed by Honda to improve the volumetric efficiency of a four-stroke internal combustion engine. The VTEC system uses two camshaft profiles and electronically selects between the profiles. It was invented by Honda R&D engineer Ikuo Kajitani, and was the first system...
: Max Power 81 kW at 5,800 rpm , Max Torque 143 newton metre at 4,800 rpm
Indonesia
The Jazz was first imported from Japan under the name Fit in 2002, but due to the high price it was not very popular. In late 2003, Honda decided to import the Fit from Thailand, badged as the Jazz, to Indonesia at a much lower price. After the release, the Jazz was an instant success and became the best selling car in Indonesia after the Innova, Avanza and Xenia. It was offered in only one trim with the 1.5 i-DSI engine mated to either a 5-speed manual or a CVT transmission. In early 2005, a VTEC model was offered with added rear disc brakes, ABS, EBD and airbags. Since 2005, all Jazz models were built at Honda's Karawang factory.
Philippines
Sold as the
Jazz in the Philippines from 2004 up to 2008 (1st generation). It is available with three trim lines:
- 1.3 L - five-speed manual, power steering, without air bag
- 1.3 S - five-speed manual/seven-speed CVT, all-power, ABS, dual SRS air bag
- 1.5 S - five-speed manual/seven-speed CVT(2005), all-power, ABS, dual SRS air bag
and 2 engine configurations:
- L13A i-DSI
The L-series is a 4-cylinder engine created by Honda and introduced in 2001. It has 1.2, 1.3, and 1.5 L displacement variants, which utilize the names L12A, L13A, and L15A. Depending on the region, these engines are sold throughout the world in the 5-door Fit/Jazz hatchback and the 4-door Fit...
1,339 cc SOHC 8 valve
- L15A VTEC
VTEC is a valvetrain system developed by Honda to improve the volumetric efficiency of a four-stroke internal combustion engine. The VTEC system uses two camshaft profiles and electronically selects between the profiles. It was invented by Honda R&D engineer Ikuo Kajitani, and was the first system...
1,496 cc SOHC 16 valve
2004 models were imported from Thailand, while 2005-2008 models were
built in Honda's plant in Laguna.
Crash test
2007 Honda Fit NHSTA crash scores:
- Frontal Driver:
- Frontal Passenger:
- Side Driver:
- Side Rear Passenger:
- Rollover:
Europe NCAP:
2004 RHD Honda Jazz 1.4 SE tested
Honda Jazz became the supermini to have the best overall performance for combined safety in its class.
Second-generation
The second-generation Fit debuted for model year 2008 on 17 October 2007 at the
Tokyo Motor ShowThe is a biennial auto show held in October-November at the Makuhari Messe, Chiba City, Japan for cars, motorcycles and commercial vehicles. Hosted by the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association , it is a recognized international show by the Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs...
. The vehicle offers a longer wheelbase than its predecessor and is wider and longer overall. Overall height is unchanged, while interior height increased by .3 in. Multi-mode seating and cargo configurations are retained, with redesigned headrests enabling more convenient folding of the rear seats. The cabin features greater interior volume, and boot capacity decreased from 21.3 to 20.6 cubic foot (0.5833270482 m³). North America models are slightly longer, due to a longer fascia; the difference is visible in photos below.
Two engines are offered in the new Fit. A 1.3 l (79.3 cu in) i-VTEC will produce 98 hp at 6,000 rpm and 98 ft·lbf (132.9 N·m) at 4,500 rpm. This engine will be offered in both European and Asian markets. A 1.5 l (91.5 cu in) i-VTEC engine is also offered and produces a maximum output of 117 hp at 6,600 rpm and 106 ft·lbf (143.7 N·m) at 4,800 rpm. This is the only engine available in the American market. A five-speed
manualA manual transmission, also known as a manual gearbox or standard transmission is a type of transmission used in motor vehicle applications...
, five-speed
automaticAn automatic transmission is one type of motor vehicle transmission that can automatically change gear ratios as the vehicle moves, freeing the driver from having to shift gears manually...
(4WD only) and CVT transmission are available.
The chassis was re-engineered, with structural rigidity increased by 164 percent.
The Fit now features improved ride and handling.
Fit Hybrid (2010)
Sales of the Fit Hybrid began in Japan in October 2010. The
hybridA hybrid electric vehicle is a type of hybrid vehicle and electric vehicle which combines a conventional internal combustion engine propulsion system with an electric propulsion system. The presence of the electric powertrain is intended to achieve either better fuel economy than a conventional...
version starts at million (around ), the lowest price for a gasoline-electric vehicle sold in Japan. The Fit Hybrid features a 1.3-litre engine and electric motor, with an estimated
fuel economyFuel usage in automobiles refers to the fuel efficiency relationship between distance traveled by an automobile and the amount of fuel consumed....
of 3.3 L/100km measured in accordance with Japanese 10-15 cycle.
The European version, called Jazz Hybrid, was unveiled at the
2010 Paris Motor ShowThe 2010 Paris Motor Show took place from 2 October to 17 October 2010, in Paris Expo, Porte de Versailles.For 2010, the theme of the special exhibition was "The Incredible Collection 2: automobile manufacturers collections and museums."- Production cars :...
and became available in early 2011. The Honda Fit/Jazz for the European and Japanese markets features revised headlamps, new front grille, a leather seating option and a new Lime Green exterior color choice. Fuel economy estimated in accordance with European standard is around 65 mpgimp and CO2 emissions of 104 g/km. It has the lowest carbon emission of automatic car in the B-segment.
In an interview, Kohei Hitomi, the project leader, admitted that to bring CO2 further down will affect some attributes that buyers of the car most value: bigger electric motor and battery will sacrifice space utility; to improve aerodynamics may have to make side mirrors smaller. He said there are benefits for customers to keep all the versatility. The drivetrain is the same drive system as the
Honda InsightThe Honda Insight is a hybrid electric vehicle manufactured by Honda and the first production vehicle to feature Honda's Integrated Motor Assist system. The first-generation Insight was produced from 1999 to 2006 as a three-door hatchback...
. The advantages of the system are low cost, low weight and can be combined with manual transmission or continuous variable transmission. The car is better suited than its Diesel competitors in areas where superminis are most common: city centres. It is more economical in urban conditions. Thanks to the instant torque of the electric motor, it has a much better engine response.
Honda has not decided on a U.S. launch for Fit hybrid, according to Koichi Kondo, Executive Vice President of Honda. “As for the future, it's open to question. We will carefully be watching the market situation.” Hitomi, as reported by
Automotive News, sees that the current Fit offered in North American market has very good fuel mileage as it is and questions if buyers are willing to pay the extra for marginal mileage gains.
Fit Shuttle (2011)
The Fit Shuttle is a compact station wagon derived from the second generation Fit and is available in Japan's domestic market. The car leverages the efficient packaging of Fit and Fit hybrid.
The launch of the car was pushed back for about three months due to the quake and tsunami in Japan on March 11, 2011. Production of the car was transferred from Honda's
Sayama, formerly known as Irumagawa, is a city located in Saitama, Japan. Sayama translates as "sitting on a mountain”. The city was founded on July 1, 1954....
plant in
Saitama Prefectureis a prefecture of Japan located in the Kantō region of the island of Honshu. The capital is the city of Saitama.This prefecture is part of the Greater Tokyo Area, and most of Saitama's cities can be described as suburbs of Tokyo, to which a large amount of residents commute each day.- History...
to Suzuka plant in
Mie Prefectureis a prefecture of Japan which is part of the Kansai regions on Honshū island. The capital is the city of Tsu.- History :Until the Meiji Restoration, Mie prefecture was known as Ise Province and Iga Province....
as a result of power rationing after the quake. Production began in early May 2011. The Fit Shuttle was shortlisted for Car of The Year Japan 2012.
Its drivetrains are shared with the Fit. The Fit Shuttle has a 1.5 L i-VTEC engine with 120 hp, which is optional in Japan's Fit. A hybrid version, the Fit Shuttle hybrid, is also available, with a 1.3 L i-VTEC engine with
IMA- Institutions :* Indianapolis Museum of Art, an art museum in Indianapolis, Indiana* Indian Medical Association* Indian Military Academy, Dehradun...
. Continuously variable transmission is the only transmission available for FWD models. A five-speed auto transmission is standard on four wheel drive models.
By reducing engine friction, front brake rolling resistance, improvement in aerodynamics and inprovement of control efficiency of the hybrid system, Honda is able to enhance the fuel efficiency of the station wagon and its hybrid variant to be the same as that of Fit and Fit hybrid. When the hybrid model cruises on electric motor power alone, the fuel pump and ignition system will be shut down, reducing energy losses. All models feature ECON Mode for enhancing real-world fuel economy. Hybrid model has Eco Assist (Ecological Drive Assist System) to help the driver engage in fuel-efficient driving practices. It went on sales on June 16, 2011, in Japan. Its predecessor, the station wagon variant of first generation Fit, was sold as
Honda AirwaveThe Honda Airwave is a subcompact car produced by the Japanese automaker Honda since 2005. It is a five-door station wagon version of the City / Fit Aria and Fit/Jazz, which are a sedan and a hatchback respectively. The Airwave is built on the Global Small Car platform; however, unlike the City and...
.
The Fit Shuttle comes with a double-hinged two-piece load floor that both allows access to an under-floor storage bin and also functions as a divider for the cargo area. Through better sound dampening and insulation, the Fit Shuttle is pledged to be as quiet as a mid-size sedan.
Regional information
Japan
Japanese market sales began in October 2007. Face-lifted models arrived together with the debut of hybrid version in October 2010.
Second-party aftermarket tuner,
MugenMugen Motorsports is a Japanese company formed in 1973 by Hirotoshi Honda, the son of Honda Motor Company founder Soichiro Honda, and Masao Kimura. Mugen, meaning "Without Limit", or "Unlimited", is an engine tuner and parts manufacturer closely associated with the Honda Motor Company...
, introduced on 22 October 2007 a new line of accessories for the Japanese market 2008 Honda Fit. Two body kits (RS kit and L/S Aero kit)will be made available that include new front and rear bumpers, side skirts, a roof spoiler and chrome exhaust tip. Other accessories like alloy wheels, aluminum pedals, different gauges, a sports exhaust, stiffer suspension and the like will also be available.
On 17 January 2008,
Mugen MotorsportsMugen Motorsports is a Japanese company formed in 1973 by Hirotoshi Honda, the son of Honda Motor Company founder Soichiro Honda, and Masao Kimura. Mugen, meaning "Without Limit", or "Unlimited", is an engine tuner and parts manufacturer closely associated with the Honda Motor Company...
introduced the Mugen Fit F154SC at the 2008
Tokyo Auto SalonThe is an annual auto show held in January at the Makuhari Messe, Chiba City, Japan for Performance and custom dress-up parts and technology display. Hosted by the Nippon Auto Parts Aftermarket Committee ....
. The F154SC has a
superchargerA supercharger is an air compressor used for forced induction of an internal combustion engine.The greater mass flow-rate provides more oxygen to support combustion than would be available in a naturally aspirated engine, which allows more fuel to be burned and more work to be done per cycle,...
installed onto the stock L15A engine that raises base horsepower of the 1.5 l (91.5 cu in) I4 to 150 hp and 136 lbf.ft. Other upgrades include full coilover suspension, exhaust, intake, and brakes. Body modifications include a widen track to feed more air into the engine bay.
North America
Although the second generation Honda Fit was introduced in the Japanese market for the 2008 model year, the first generation Fit was still sold in the North American market for the 2008 model year. The second generation Fit for the North American market was unveiled on 19 March 2008, at the 2008
New York International Auto ShowThe New York International Auto Show is an annual auto show held in New York City in late March or early April. It is usually held at the Jacob Javits Convention Center. It usually opens on or just before Easter weekend and closes on the first Sunday after Easter...
for the 2009 model year. The North American Fit's front overhang is several inches longer to improve U.S.
National Highway Traffic Safety AdministrationThe National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is an agency of the Executive Branch of the U.S. government, part of the Department of Transportation...
(NHTSA) crash test ratings. The engine is a 1.5 l (91.5 cu in) i-VTEC 4-cylinder mated to a five-speed manual transmission or a five-speed automatic transmission.
The second generation Honda Fit went on sale in North America around August 26, 2008, for the 2009 model year. It was considered the most expensive within the subcompact class when equipped as such, but was also described as modestly priced. It was reported in September 2009 that Honda is considering producing the Fit in North America in response to the increasing strength of the Japanese yen against the U.S. dollar.
For the 2011 models, Vehicle Stability Assist, cruise control, remote entry and USB audio interface became standard across all trim levels. In addition, the Fit Sport now comes with carpeted floor mats.
As of the 2011 model year, the base Fit comes with a remote entry, 15-inch wheels with covers, power windows, power locks, cruise control, a tilt and telescoping steering wheel, a 160-watt AM/FM/CD audio system with four speakers, a USB audio interface, a 12-volt power outlet, and other features. The Fit Sport adds a ground appearance package, 16 inches (406.4 mm) alloy wheels, paddle shifters, a navigation system, a security system, fog lights, chrome exhaust finisher, a leather wrapped steering wheel, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, floor mats, a 6-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system, and other features.
For the 2012 model year, Honda made a series of minor design changes to the Fit, including a new grille and alloy wheels for the Sport model. The base model did not receive the same facelift.
Canadian trims include the DX (two speakers, black door handles and side mirrors), DX-A (adds factory-installed air conditioning), LX (adds among other things, body-colored door handles and side mirrors, 15-inch lightweight alloy wheels from the 2006-2011 Civic Hybrid and DX-G, rear spoiler, power locks and remote entry, two speakers for a total of four, cruise control), and Fit Sport (adds USB jack and Vehical Stability Assist). The Fit Sport is similar to its American counterpart, however a navigation system is not offered as an option.
NHTSA Crash Test Ratings:
Frontal Driver and Passenger:
Side Driver Impact:
Side Rear Passenger Impact:
Rollover:
Brazil
The Sumare-built new Fit was introduced in October 2008 in Brazil at the
Sao PauloSão Paulo is the largest city in Brazil, the largest city in the southern hemisphere and South America, and the world's seventh largest city by population. The metropolis is anchor to the São Paulo metropolitan area, ranked as the second-most populous metropolitan area in the Americas and among...
auto show. There are four versions: LX and LXL, with the 1.35-liter (marketed as 1.4) 16V engine, and EX and EXL, with the 1.5-liter 16V engine. Both engines have
VTECVTEC is a valvetrain system developed by Honda to improve the volumetric efficiency of a four-stroke internal combustion engine. The VTEC system uses two camshaft profiles and electronically selects between the profiles. It was invented by Honda R&D engineer Ikuo Kajitani, and was the first system...
and flex fuel capabilities as standard. Manual and automatic - both five-speed - gearboxes are offered;
CVTA continuously variable transmission is a transmission that can change steplessly through an infinite number of effective gear ratios between maximum and minimum values. This contrasts with other mechanical transmissions that offer a fixed number of gear ratios...
is no longer available.
Thailand
The Fit is available in Thailand as the Jazz. The second generation model has been unveiled on March 23, 2008. 3 trim levels will be offered with the top of the range being the SV followed by the V and the S. Cars with the S trim level will have
manualA manual transmission, also known as a manual gearbox or standard transmission is a type of transmission used in motor vehicle applications...
and automatic transmission while the SV and V trims with only
automatic transmissionAn automatic transmission is one type of motor vehicle transmission that can automatically change gear ratios as the vehicle moves, freeing the driver from having to shift gears manually...
s. All trim levels have the 1.5-liter 16V engine with
VTECVTEC is a valvetrain system developed by Honda to improve the volumetric efficiency of a four-stroke internal combustion engine. The VTEC system uses two camshaft profiles and electronically selects between the profiles. It was invented by Honda R&D engineer Ikuo Kajitani, and was the first system...
and flex fuel capabilities as standard.
The Jazz that is built in Thailand will be shipped to serve customers in Malaysia, Philippines and Australia. (original info: Singapore is included. However Kah Motors, the authorized dealer for Honda in Singapore, made it clear in their communications with the public and media, that the Jazz 2009 is made in Japan.)
Philippines
The second-generation Jazz was launched around October 2008, with three trim levels.
Indonesia
Similar with Thailand, the Honda Fit is called the Honda Jazz. The general market for the Honda Jazz are students, urban-people, and small families who needed a small, fuel-efficient, and trendy car. The first generation Honda Jazz was a huge success, sold by Honda Prospect Motor (HPM) introduced in late quarter of 2003. The Honda Jazz is manufactured completely knocked down (CKD) in Honda's Karawang Plant, West Java, Indonesia. The second generation Jazz was introduced in the middle of 2008, sold in S and RS versions. The RS has added airbags, ABS, EBD, a different head unit and body kit with bigger wheels. In 2008, the total sales of Honda Jazz in Indonesia was 24.969 unit, ranked 5th in total for the best selling passenger car in Indonesia. In 2009, sales fell to 15,713 as economic activities slowed but sales ranking improved to the fourth best selling passenger car of the country. It was also Honda's best selling car in Indonesia. As of the end of November 2010, sales of Jazz totaled 20,581 unit for the year, making the car leader in the segment.
Europe
On July 28, 2008, Honda UK announced that the second generation Jazz would be on sale from October 17, 2008. The new model will be sold with two new engine variants; a 90 PS 1.2-litre i-VTEC petrol capable of 55.4 mpgimp (combined) and with low CO
2 emissions of 120 g/km; and a 100 PS 1.4-litre i-VTEC petrol engine capable of 53.3 mpgimp (combined) and with similarly low CO
2 emissions of 123 g/km. Honda also announced the introduction of an optional new "
I-SHIFTThe Honda I-SHIFT is a 6-speed semi-automatic transmission . Honda’s I-SHIFT only debuted recently on the European market Honda Civic hatchback, pairing it with the 1.4 i-VTEC and 1.8 i-VTEC engines...
" semi-automatic gearbox replacing the traditional automatic CVT gearbox that had been available on the previous model.
Production of the Jazz for European markets moved from Japan to Honda's UK plant in Swindon on 7 October 2009.
Facelifted models and the new hybrid model were to go on sale on 1 February 2011. Aerodynamics improvement help the Cd drop from 0.336 to 0.330. Engine modifications result in a drop of carbon emission of two grams to 123 g/km for 1.2 L engine and 126 g/km for 1.4 L engine respectively. CVT transmission will also be available on cars with the larger engine.
India
Honda launched the
Jazz in India in 2009. It is manufactured by Honda Siel Cars India Limited at its factory in
Greater NoidaGreater Noida is located in the Gautam Budh Nagar district of the north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh . It is under the purview of the National Capital Region of India...
.
Australia
The second generation Fit (sold as the Jazz) is available in Australia, albeit without electronic stability control (known as Vehicle Stability Control in Honda nomenclature). Honda has confirmed that this feature will be introduced by the end of 2010.
Sales
Japanese sales of the first generation Fit greatly exceeded the original monthly sales target of 8,000 units on debut. By December 2001, it had outsold the
Toyota CorollaThe Corolla E120 is the ninth generation of cars sold by Toyota under the Corolla nameplate.The ninth-generation Corolla first appeared in November 2000 with edgier styling and a longer 2600 mm wheelbase. It is built on a shortened Toyota Vista platform—the Vista being a mid-sized, rather...
, and ranked first in sales for nine out of twelve months in 2002. With a total sales of 250,790 for the year of 2002, it became the best selling vehicles in Japan, which is a first for a Honda model. By September 2003, a little more than two years after the car was first sold, Fit reached 500,000 sales in Japanese market.
After a minor model change (MMC) that went on sale on June 11, 2004, Honda announced that, in about 2 weeks' period after its introduction, the company received orders from customers totaled around 13,000 units. By November 2007, in less than 6 months after minor model change, cumulative sales of Fit reached 1 Million units in Japan.
The second generation has been the top selling car in Japan since its official launch in November 2007. By September 2010, cumulative sales in Japan reached 1.5 million units.
| Year | Hatchback | Aria | Total Rank in Japan |
| 2001 |
104,298 |
n/a |
6 |
| 2002 |
250,790 |
1,231 |
1 |
| 2003 |
182,285 |
14,623 |
2 |
| 2004 |
149,503 |
6,992 |
2 |
| 2005 |
125,894 |
5,450 |
3 |
| 2006 |
101,793 |
5,238 |
3 |
| 2007 |
116,561 |
|
3 |
| 2008 |
174,910 |
|
1 |
| 2009 |
157,324 |
|
2 |
By December 2004, cumulative global sales of Fit/Jazz reached 1 million units. On 17 July 2007, Honda announced that as of the end of June more than 2 million Fit/Jazz units had been sold worldwide since its introduction. Japan accounts for the largest percentage of sales, with 962,000 units sold in the home market. Europe is next with 417,000 units. The U.S. accounts for 77,000 cars since introduction in 2006. Honda expected to sell 33,000 vehicles in the U.S. for the 2007 model year, but exceeded these expectations and sold 40,000. Honda plans to put 70,000 Fits on the U.S. roads for the 2008 model year.
In the first half of 2008, Honda and other manufacturers were surprised by the rapid shift towards smaller cars in the United States. Sales of Fit during the first five months of the year jumped 64% compared with that of 2007. Production of 2009 Fit for the United States market was to increase from 60,000 to 80,000 cars. Further increase in supply for the United States market is limited by Honda's production capacity of 500,000 a year for all markets.
Honda announced that by the end of July 2009, worldwide sales of Fit/Jazz reached 3 million. One year later, global cumulative sales reached 3.5 million units in July 2010.
| Calendar Year |
US |
| 2006 |
27,934 |
| 2007 |
56,432 |
| 2008 |
79,794 |
| 2009 |
67,315 |
Marketing
In April 2006, Honda Australia started promoting the Honda Jazz with Village Green, an animated television commercial, in 30 second and 60 second versions. The 60 second ad was inspired by
Thomas the Tank EngineThomas the Tank Engine is a fictional steam locomotive in The Railway Series books by the Reverend Wilbert Awdry and his son, Christopher. He became the most popular character in the series, and the accompanying television spin-off series, Thomas and Friends.Thomas is a tank engine, painted blue...
. The campaign was developed by Foote Cone Belding Melbourne, by creative director/art director Scott Lambert, copywriter Mark Ringer and agency producer Mandi Wright. The animated ad was directed by Michael Cusack at Anifex, with director of photography/producer Richard Chataway.
In April 2006, American Honda and its ad agency RPA launched the all-new small car, the Honda Fit, with six five-second and two 30-second TV ads, with the slogan 'The Fit Is Go'.
In September 2008,
RPARPA may refer to:In government:* Railway Procurement Agency, a State Agency of the Department of Transport in the Republic of Ireland* Representation of the People Act, a short title for legislation of the Parliament of the United Kingdom dealing with the electoral system** Representation of the...
(Rubin Postaer and Associates) announced it had started a national advertising campaign for Honda Fit, beginning September 29. The list of ads include "Mecha-Mosquitoes," (broke 9/21) "Defense Mechanism" (breaks 10/2) and "Bats" (breaks 9/28), produced by Digital Domain. As part of the campaign, the vehicle also appeared in Gossip Girl, 90210, America’s Next Top Model, Smallville and
Everybody Hates ChrisEverybody Hates Chris is an African American television period sitcom inspired by the teenage experiences of comedian Chris Rock , while growing up in the Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York . The show is set from 1982 to 1987; however, Rock himself was a teenager during years...
. Print ads "Gas Hogs" and "Cavernous" will be featured in popular magazines. A dedicated marketing site,
fit.honda.com, was built to communicate top product features through games and interactive experiences. The campaign continued the 'The Fit Is Go' slogan. The TV ads editor was Michael Heldman at Spot Welders, Santa Monica, with producer Lisa English; sound was designed by Eddie Kim at 740 Sound Design, Santa Monica; audio post production was mixed by Loren Silber at lime studios, Santa Monica; music was composed by Jonathan Elias and David Wittman at Elias Arts, Santa Monica with producer Ann Haugen.
Recall
In January 2010, Honda announced a recall of 646,000 Fit hatchbacks from 2002-2008 due to a window switch that could catch fire.
The recall affected Fit/Jazz models, including about 170,000 Jazz compact cars in the United Kingdom although no window malfunction reports had been received there.
This recall was conducted as the company had received reports of master window switch malfunctions on the driver’s door, most commonly occurring when the driver's window is left open, allowing rain or water to drip into the window switch module, resulting in switch failure and in occasions overheating, eventually possible fire hazards.
To address the issue, recalled cars will be fitted with a waterproof skirt to prevent further water entry. Honda will also be replacing malfunctioning and worn-off window switches. Honda offers the change of affected parts free of charge.
Second recall
In January 2011, Honda announced a second recall, this time for a problem that could cause the headlights to fail.
Third recall
HONDA CARS Philippines Inc. called an emergency press conference February 18, 2011, to announce a voluntary safety recall of its two sub-compact models Jazz and City, explaining that small engine components in the models could create problems and stall their engine. Four pieces of the lost-motion-spring retainers in the cylinder head of the 1.5-liter Honda Jazz (distributed from September 2008 to April 2010) and the 1.5 liter Honda City (distributed from January 2009 to April 2010) had to be replaced right away. The Honda Jazz subject of recall was imported from Thailand while the City is a complete knock-down unit assembled in the Philippines. The recall targets 5,468 units of both distributed at the time. Also, no crashes or injuries were reported.
The 2009-2011 U.S. version of Honda Fit is subject to the same recall as the Philippine version.
Fit EV
Hondais a Japanese public multinational corporation primarily known as a manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles.Honda has been the world's largest motorcycle manufacturer since 1959, as well as the world's largest manufacturer of internal combustion engines measured by volume, producing more than...
unveiled the Honda Fit EV
conceptA concept vehicle or show vehicle is a car made to showcase new styling and or new technology. They are often shown at motor shows to gauge customer reaction to new and radical designs which may or may not have a chance of being produced....
electric carAn electric car is an automobile which is propelled by electric motor, using electrical energy stored in batteries or another energy storage device. Electric cars were popular in the late-19th century and early 20th century, until advances in internal combustion engine technology and mass...
in the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show. A demonstration program with pre-production vehicles began in
GuangzhouGuangzhou , known historically as Canton or Kwangchow, is the capital and largest city of the Guangdong province in the People's Republic of China. Located in southern China on the Pearl River, about north-northwest of Hong Kong, Guangzhou is a key national transportation hub and trading port...
,
ChinaChina , officially the People's Republic of China , is the most populous country in the world, with over 1.3 billion citizens. Located in East Asia, the country covers approximately 9.6 million square kilometres...
in early November 2011. Another demonstration program is scheduled to take place in California in 2011, in parternship with
Stanford UniversityThe Leland Stanford Junior University, commonly referred to as Stanford University or Stanford, is a private research university on an campus located near Palo Alto, California. It is situated in the northwestern Santa Clara Valley on the San Francisco Peninsula, approximately northwest of San...
, the City of Torrance and
GoogleGoogle Inc. is an American multinational public corporation invested in Internet search, cloud computing, and advertising technologies. Google hosts and develops a number of Internet-based services and products, and generates profit primarily from advertising through its AdWords program...
The Fit EV is scheduled to be launched in Japan and the United States in 2012. The production 2013
model yearThe model year of a product is a number used worldwide, but with a high level of prominence in North America, to describe approximately when a product was produced, and indicates the coinciding base specification of that product....
Fit EV was unveiled at the November 2011 Los Angeles Show.
The
concept carA concept vehicle or show vehicle is a car made to showcase new styling and or new technology. They are often shown at motor shows to gauge customer reaction to new and radical designs which may or may not have a chance of being produced....
is based on the Fit compact car platform, powered by a lithium-ion battery pack combined with a high-density coaxial motor derived from the Honda FCX Clarity
hydrogenA hydrogen vehicle is a vehicle that uses hydrogen as its onboard fuel for motive power. Hydrogen vehicles include hydrogen fueled space rockets, as well as automobiles and other transportation vehicles...
fuel cell vehicleA Fuel cell vehicle or Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle is a type of hydrogen vehicle which uses a fuel cell to produce electricity, powering its on-board electric motor...
. Honda claims the Fit EV concept has an
all-electric rangeAll-electric range is the driving range of a vehicle using only power from its electric battery pack to traverse a given driving cycle. In the case of a battery electric vehicle, it means the total range per charge. For a plug-in hybrid , it means the range of the vehicle in charge-depleting mode...
of 70 to 100 mi (112.7 to 160.9 ) and a top speed of 90 miles per hour (40.2 m/s). Honda also said that recharging the Fit EV will take 12 hours from a 120-volt outlet and six hours with a 240-volt supply. The Fit EV will employ Toshiba's SCiB batteries that can be recharged to 80% capacity in 15 minutes and can be recharged up to 4,000 times.
The forthcoming electric car, like the
Honda CR-ZThe Honda CR-Z is a compact hybrid electric automobile manufactured by Honda and marketed as a "sport hybrid coupe." The CR-Z combines a hybrid gasoline-electric powertrain with traditional sports car elements...
hybridA hybrid electric vehicle is a type of hybrid vehicle and electric vehicle which combines a conventional internal combustion engine propulsion system with an electric propulsion system. The presence of the electric powertrain is intended to achieve either better fuel economy than a conventional...
, will have three distinct driving modes: econ, normal, and sport. Honda explained that "econ" mode will extend the driving range by 17% compared to the normal mode; in sport mode, the Fit EV imitates the acceleration of a small car with a 2.0-liter gasoline engine.
Awards and recognition
- Japan Car of the Year for the year 2001-2002 and 2007–2008
- Japan Car of the Year 30th Anniversary Special Award “Best 3rd Decade Car”: 1st generation Fit/Jazz
- RJC Car of the Year Award 2002
- Car and Driver
Car and Driver is an American automotive enthusiast magazine. Its total circulation is 1.31 million. It is owned by Hearst Magazines, who purchased prior owner Hachette Filipacchi Media U.S. in 2011...
's Best Small Car in its 2007-2011 10Best lists.
- Top Gear
Top Gear is a British television series about motor vehicles, primarily cars. It began in 1977 as a conventional motoring magazine show. Over time, and especially since a relaunch in 2002, it has developed a quirky, humorous style...
Survey 2006: Best Small Car
- Top Gear
Top Gear is a British television series about motor vehicles, primarily cars. It began in 1977 as a conventional motoring magazine show. Over time, and especially since a relaunch in 2002, it has developed a quirky, humorous style...
Survey 2006: Second Best of all cars in the survey (After the Honda S2000The Honda S2000 is a roadster that was manufactured by the Japanese automaker Honda Motor Company. It was launched in April 1999 and was created to celebrate the company's 50th anniversary. The car was first shown as a concept at the Tokyo Motor Show in 1995, following which it was launched in...
)
- Greenercars.org's One of the Greenest Vehicles of 2007 and 2008
- MotorWeek
MotorWeek is an American automotive television series. The program premiered in 1981 and is hosted by auto expertJohn H. Davis, who is also the series’ creator and executive producer...
Drivers' Choice Awards 2007—Best Small Car
- MotorWeek
MotorWeek is an American automotive television series. The program premiered in 1981 and is hosted by auto expertJohn H. Davis, who is also the series’ creator and executive producer...
Drivers' Choice Awards 2007—Best of the Year
- Best Economy Car for 2008, U.S. News & World Report
U.S. News & World Report is an American news magazine published from Washington, D.C. Along with Time and Newsweek it was for many years a leading news weekly, focusing more than its counterparts on political, economic, health and education stories...
- Top 10 Urban Vehicles for 2008 - Cars.com
Cars.com is a website which was launched in June 1998. It is the second largest automotive classified site, second to only Autotrader.com. It is a division of Classified Ventures, which is in turn a joint venture by major media companies including the Gannett Company, the McClatchy Company, the...
- 2009 Car of the Year Finalist, Motor Trend
Motor Trend is an American automobile magazine. It first appeared in September 1949, issued by Petersen Publishing Company in Los Angeles, and bearing the tag line "The Magazine for a Motoring World". Petersen Publishing was sold to British publisher EMAP in 1998, who sold the former Petersen...
- 2010 Best Hatchback for the Money, U.S. News & World Report
U.S. News & World Report is an American news magazine published from Washington, D.C. Along with Time and Newsweek it was for many years a leading news weekly, focusing more than its counterparts on political, economic, health and education stories...
See also
- Honda EV Plus
The Honda EV Plus was the first battery electric vehicle from a major automaker with non-lead acid batteries. Roughly 340 EV Plus models were produced and released. The EV Plus was taken out of production in 1999 when Honda announced the release of its first hybrid electric vehicle, the Honda Insight...
- Honda Airwave
The Honda Airwave is a subcompact car produced by the Japanese automaker Honda since 2005. It is a five-door station wagon version of the City / Fit Aria and Fit/Jazz, which are a sedan and a hatchback respectively. The Airwave is built on the Global Small Car platform; however, unlike the City and...
- Honda Fit Aria/City
The Honda City is a subcompact car manufactured by the Japanese manufacturer Honda since 1981. Originally made for the Japanese, European and Australasian markets, the City was retired without replacement in 1994...
- Honda L-series engine
The L-series is a 4-cylinder engine created by Honda and introduced in 2001. It has 1.2, 1.3, and 1.5 L displacement variants, which utilize the names L12A, L13A, and L15A. Depending on the region, these engines are sold throughout the world in the 5-door Fit/Jazz hatchback and the 4-door Fit...
- Nissan Versa
- Daewoo Kalos
The Chevrolet Aveo is the first generation of the Chevrolet Aveo, a subcompact automobile manufactured since 2002 by GM Daewoo, the South Korean subsidiary of General Motors — originally marketed as the Daewoo Kalos and prominently marketed as the Aveo...
- Suzuki Swift
The Suzuki Swift is a subcompact car produced by Suzuki in Japan since 2000. Prior to this, the "Swift" nameplate had been applied to the Suzuki Cultus in export markets such as Australasia, Europe, India and North America.- Predecessor :...
- Toyota Vitz
The Toyota Vitz is a line of three- and five-door hatchback subcompact cars produced since 1998 by the Japanese automobile manufacturer Toyota. Now in its third generation, the name "Toyota Vitz" has been used consistently in Japan, with most international markets receiving the same vehicle under...
External links