Used 2017 Honda Fit EX

2017 Honda Fit: A Versatile Subcompact Champion

The 2017 Honda Fit cemented its reputation as a practical and incredibly versatile subcompact car, offering a surprisingly spacious interior and excellent fuel efficiency within its compact footprint. It's a smart choice for urban dwellers, small families, and anyone prioritizing adaptability and value.

Highlights

• Engine: The 2017 Fit is powered by a peppy 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine. This engine produces 130 horsepower, delivering more than adequate power for city driving and highway cruising. It's known for its smooth operation and responsive acceleration, especially when paired with the optional Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), which further enhances fuel economy. The standard six-speed manual transmission offers a more engaging driving experience for enthusiasts.
• Safety Features: Honda prioritizes safety, and the 2017 Fit comes equipped with a robust suite of standard and available features:
  • Honda Sensing (Available on EX, EX-L trims): This suite of driver-assist technologies is a significant upgrade. It includes:
    • Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS): Detects potential frontal collisions and can automatically apply the brakes if a collision is imminent.
    • Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM): Monitors road markings and can provide steering assistance or braking to help keep the vehicle within its lane if it drifts off the road.
    • Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): Maintains a set speed and following distance from the vehicle ahead, reducing driver fatigue on longer journeys.
    • Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS): Helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane by making small steering adjustments.
  • Standard Safety Features: All Fit models include essential safety equipment like multi-stage front airbags, front side airbags, side curtain airbags, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), and Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
  • Excellent Crash Test Ratings: The 2017 Fit generally received very good ratings in crash tests from organizations like the NHTSA and IIHS, providing peace of mind for occupants.
• Trim Summary: The 2017 Honda Fit was offered in three distinct trims, each building upon the previous one:
  • LX: The foundational trim, offering essential features and Honda's renowned reliability.
  • EX: The mid-level trim, adding desirable features such as a sunroof, push-button start, and an upgraded infotainment system. This is often considered the sweet spot for value.
  • EX-L: The top-tier trim, further enhancing comfort and luxury with features like leather-trimmed seats and heated front seats.
• Other Notable Aspects:
  • Magic Seat System: This is arguably the Fit's most iconic feature. The rear seats can be configured in multiple ways (Tall, Long, Utility, and Refresh modes) to accommodate a wide range of cargo and passengers, making it exceptionally practical for hauling bulky items or creating a comfortable lounging space.
  • Surprisingly Spacious Interior: Despite its subcompact exterior, the Fit boasts an incredibly roomy cabin, particularly for rear-seat passengers. The "Magic Seat" system allows for impressive cargo volume when the rear seats are folded.
  • Nimble Handling: The Fit is agile and easy to maneuver, making it ideal for navigating tight city streets and parking in crowded areas.
  • Fuel Efficiency: The Fit is a leader in its class for fuel economy, achieving excellent MPG figures, especially with the CVT.

What to Expect

Owning a 2017 Honda Fit typically translates to a reliable and predictable ownership experience. Honda's reputation for longevity and low cost of ownership generally holds true for the Fit.

• Maintenance: Routine maintenance is straightforward and affordable. Oil changes, tire rotations, and filter replacements are standard procedures. The 1.5-liter engine is known for its durability, and parts are readily available. Following Honda's recommended maintenance schedule will help ensure optimal performance and longevity.
• Insurance: Insurance costs for the 2017 Honda Fit are generally competitive within the subcompact segment. Factors like your driving record, location, and chosen coverage levels will influence the final premium, but the Fit is typically not considered a high-risk vehicle to insure.

Potential Considerations

While the 2017 Honda Fit is a compelling package, potential buyers should be aware of a few points:

• Road Noise: Some owners report that road noise can be noticeable at highway speeds, particularly on rougher surfaces. This is a common characteristic of many subcompact cars.
• Interior Materials: While functional, the interior materials, particularly in lower trims, can feel a bit basic and utilitarian compared to some competitors.
• Infotainment System (Older Models): While the available infotainment system in the EX and EX-L trims was decent for its time, it may feel less advanced than the touchscreen systems found in newer vehicles. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were not available on the 2017 model.
• Engine Power: While sufficient for most driving, the 130 horsepower engine might feel slightly underpowered for those accustomed to more potent engines, especially when carrying a full load or climbing steep hills.

Overall Summary

The 2017 Honda Fit remains a standout choice in the subcompact segment for good reason. Its unparalleled versatility thanks to the "Magic Seat" system, combined with excellent fuel efficiency, nimble handling, and Honda's legendary reliability, makes it a practical and enjoyable vehicle for a wide range of drivers. While some minor drawbacks like road noise and less sophisticated interior materials exist, they are largely outweighed by the Fit's inherent strengths, making it a smart and sensible investment.