Honda Fit 2007 - 2020

The second-generation Honda Fit was introduced in late 2007 as a redesigned and more refined version. Built on a new, more rigid chassis, it offered a longer wheelbase and increased interior space while maintaining its compact form.

Under the hood, the Fit came equipped with the i-VTEC 1.3L and 1.5L engines, delivering smoother acceleration and improved fuel economy. Transmission choices included 5-speed manual, CVT, and 5-speed automatic, depending on market. In Japan, a hybrid variant was also introduced in 2010.

Interior improvements featured higher-quality materials, larger windows, and an upgraded dashboard with optional navigation. Safety and technology features improved significantly with the availability of Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), side curtain airbags, and a rearview camera.

Key Features:

• Magic Seats: Maintained with improved folding mechanisms.
• Efficient Engine: 1.3L and 1.5L i-VTEC engines delivering 100 - 120 hp.
• Transmission: CVT, 5-speed automatic, or manual; hybrid introduced in 2010.
• Improved Cabin Space: Extended legroom, higher roofline, flat cargo floor.
• Upgraded Safety: Standard ABS, dual airbags, optional VSA and side/curtain airbags.
• Modern Features: Navigation system, paddle shifters (RS), smart key, and climate control.

The third-generation Honda Fit debuted in 2013 with a bold new design, improved performance, and cutting-edge features. Built on Honda's new global small car platform, it delivered increased structural rigidity, better handling, and a lighter body compared to the previous generation.

Powering the GK Fit were new Earth Dreams 1.3L and 1.5L DOHC i-VTEC engines, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) or a 6-speed manual, depending on the market. A hybrid version featuring Honda's SPORT HYBRID i-DCD system was also available in Japan, offering excellent fuel economy and smoother transitions between gasoline and electric modes.

Inside, the Fit offered a more refined cabin with upgraded materials, a touchscreen infotainment system, and Honda's renowned "Magic Seat" system, allowing multiple cargo and seating configurations. It maintained its class-leading interior space with a flat floor design and improved rear legroom.

Safety was also enhanced with advanced features such as Honda's City-Brake Active System (in Japan), a multi-angle rearview camera, and optional LaneWatch technology.

Key Features:

• Efficient Engines: Earth Dreams 1.3L and 1.5L DOHC i-VTEC engines with improved fuel economy.
• Transmission Options: CVT and 6-speed manual; Hybrid i-DCD system available in Japan.
• Magic Seats: Versatile seating with Utility, Tall, Long, and Refresh modes.
• Upgraded Cabin: Soft-touch materials, touchscreen display, and improved visibility.
• Enhanced Safety: Multi-angle rearview camera, VSA, City-Brake Active System (Japan), optional LaneWatch.
• Modern Tech: Smart key entry, touchscreen infotainment with HDMI input, and paddle shifters (RS models).

Second Generation GE Series:

Honda refreshed the GE Fit in 2010 with updates aimed at design, comfort, and eco-performance.

Exterior Updates:

• New front grille with chrome accents.
• Redesigned headlights and rear tail lamps.
• New wheel designs on higher trims.

Interior Updates:

• Dashboard refinements with better textures and materials.
• Optional HDD navigation system with touch interface.
• New seat fabric and improved ergonomics.

Mechanical & Efficiency Updates:

• Idling stop introduced on select hybrid trims.
• Emissions updates to meet 2010 Japanese regulations.
• Chassis rigidity improved for safer handling.

Safety Enhancements:

• VSA and side curtain airbags expanded to more trims.
• Rearview camera added on higher trims.

Third Generation GK Series:

In 2017, the Honda Fit GK received a mid-cycle facelift that brought refreshed styling and enhanced features for improved comfort, safety, and appeal.

Front Design Update:

• Redesigned front bumper with sharper, sportier contours.
• New grille design featuring a sleeker chrome bar and updated Honda emblem placement.
• Restyled headlamps with LED lighting (available on higher trims).

Rear Changes:

• New rear bumper design with a more aggressive lower diffuser.
• Updated LED tail lights with revised light signature.

Interior Improvements:

• Enhanced dashboard materials and finish for a more premium feel.
• New fabric and trim color options introduced.
• Improved touchscreen interface with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support on select models.

New Safety Options:

• Honda Sensing suite introduced on select trims, including Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Lane Keeping Assist (LKAS), and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC).
• Improved structure with additional reinforcements for better crash safety.

Trim & Grade Adjustments:

• RS variant refreshed with sport-tuned suspension, orange accents, and paddle shifters.
• Introduction of new alloy wheel designs and LED fog lamps.
• Smart key entry, push-start ignition, and climate control added to more grades.

• Hybrid powertrains with dual-motor i-MMD.
• Honda Sensing safety suite standard.
• Fully redesigned infotainment with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.
• Improved aerodynamics and interior quality.

Second generation GE (2007 - 2014):

L13A i-VTEC:

Delivers improved fuel efficiency and smoother response over the earlier i-DSI version.

L15A i-VTEC:

Delivers 120 hp with enhanced throttle response and efficiency, often found in RS or international models.

Third Generation GK (2013 - 2020):

L13B (DOHC i-VTEC):

A 1.3-liter Earth Dreams engine with dual overhead cams and improved combustion efficiency, designed for excellent fuel economy and smoother power delivery. Commonly paired with CVT in JDM models and ideal for city driving.

L15B (DOHC i-VTEC):

A more powerful and responsive 1.5-liter Earth Dreams engine featuring direct injection in some variants. Offers improved low-end torque and better highway performance, often mated to a 6-speed manual or CVT, depending on the market.

LEB (i-DCD Hybrid System):

Used in hybrid models in Japan, this 1.5-liter Atkinson-cycle engine is part of Honda's SPORT HYBRID i-DCD system, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission and electric motor. Prioritizes fuel efficiency without compromising responsiveness in urban or highway conditions.

Recommendation:

If fuel economy and urban driving are your priorities, go with the L13A i-DSI or i-VTEC engine. If you want stronger mid-range power and a more spirited drive, especially for highway use or occasional full loads, the L15A VTEC is a better choice.

Second Generation:

Exterior:

Smoother and more dynamic design with sleeker headlights, more sculpted sides, and improved aerodynamics. Sportier trims added spoilers and fog lamps.

Interior:

Better materials and fit/finish, touchscreen infotainment options, and refined dashboard layout. Magic Seats retained with improved folding mechanism. More storage spaces and comfort-oriented touches were added.

Third Generation:

Exterior:

More aggressive and modern styling with sharper body lines, angular headlights, and a bolder front grille. The facelift introduced sleeker LED headlamps (on higher trims), revised bumpers, and sportier elements on RS variants such as gloss-black accents and unique alloy wheels. Improved aerodynamics contributed to better fuel efficiency and high-speed stability.

Interior:

Refined cabin with upgraded soft-touch materials, digital AC controls, and a more driver-focused dashboard. Touchscreen infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto became available on select trims. Magic Seats continued to offer versatile configurations with increased ease of use. Added features included push-button start, smart key access, and expanded cupholders and storage compartments for improved practicality.