The 2009 Honda Fit Sport was widely recognized for its exceptional blend of practicality, efficiency, and driving pleasure. As a subcompact car, it delivered an unexpected level of versatility and performance that endeared it to urban drivers and small families alike. The 2009 model year represented a significant evolution from previous iterations, boasting improved handling, a more spacious interior, and enhanced styling. In this article, we will delve into the specifics that make the 2009 Honda Fit Sport a standout choice in the compact car segment, exploring its detailed specifications and features.
Introduction to the 2009 Honda Fit Sport
The 2009 Honda Fit Sport is a subcompact car that redefines what small cars can offer. With its “magic seat” feature, excellent fuel efficiency, and a plethora of standard features, it challenges the notion that small cars have to compromise on comfort and utility. The Fit Sport model, in particular, adds a touch of sportiness and flair, making it an attractive option for those who want more than basic transportation.
Overview of Specifications
The 2009 Honda Fit Sport comes with a range of specifications that make it a versatile and capable vehicle. Below is a snapshot of its key specs:
- Engine: 1.5-liter I4
- Horsepower: 117 hp @ 6600 rpm
- Torque: 106 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm
- Transmission: 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic
- Fuel Economy: Approximately 27 mpg city / 33 mpg highway
- Weight: Around 2,500 pounds
- Seating Capacity: 5
These specifications make it clear that the 2009 Fit Sport is designed to provide a nimble and efficient driving experience, perfect for city driving and weekend getaways alike.
Engine and Performance
The heart of the 2009 Honda Fit Sport is its 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine. Producing 117 horsepower and 106 lb-ft of torque, this engine might not seem overly powerful on paper, but it shines in real-world driving. The engine is mated to either a 5-speed manual transmission, which adds to the driving fun, or a 5-speed automatic that provides seamless shifts and ease of use in heavy traffic.
This powertrain allows the Fit Sport to accelerate briskly and handle nimbly, qualities that are particularly appreciated in urban settings. The car’s fuel efficiency is another strong point, offering up to 33 mpg on the highway and 27 mpg in city driving conditions. The lightweight design, weighing around 2,500 pounds, further enhances its agile handling and quick acceleration.
Interior Features and Comfort
One of the most significant strengths of the 2009 Honda Fit Sport is its interior. Despite its small exterior dimensions, the Fit Sport offers a surprisingly spacious and versatile cabin. The standout feature is its “Magic Seat,” which allows for multiple seating configurations and expands cargo space dramatically.
- Standard cloth upholstery
- Adjustable steering wheel
- Ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers
- 60/40 split rear seats that fold flat to increase cargo space
The cabin is designed thoughtfully, with intuitive controls and high-quality materials. While the Fit Sport doesn’t go overboard with luxury, it offers a comfortable and practical interior that’s more than sufficient for daily commuting and longer trips.
Exterior Design and Features
The exterior of the 2009 Honda Fit Sport is where it distinguishes itself from the base model. With its sporty design elements, it appeals to those who want a bit more flair with their subcompact car.
- Sporty front and rear bumpers
- Side skirts
- 16-inch alloy wheels
- Fog lights
- Rear roofline spoiler
These features not only enhance the car’s aesthetics but also contribute to its aerodynamic efficiency. The Fit Sport offers a youthful and dynamic appearance that sets it apart in the crowded subcompact market.
Safety and Technology
Honda has always been known for prioritizing safety, and the 2009 Fit Sport is no exception. It comes loaded with a host of safety features designed to protect occupants and enhance driving confidence.
- ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) with Electronic Brake Distribution
- Dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags
- Front side airbags
- Side curtain airbags
- Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) with traction control
On the technology front, the Fit Sport includes modern features to enhance the driving experience. It comes equipped with a 160-watt AM/FM/CD audio system with six speakers, an auxiliary input jack, and optional Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System. These features add convenience and entertainment, making every drive more enjoyable.
Comparison with Other Models
When comparing the Honda Fit base vs. Sport models, the Fit Sport offers several features and enhancements that justify its slightly higher price tag.
- Performance: Both models share the same engine and transmission options, but the Sport model’s suspension is tuned for better handling and ride comfort.
- Interior: The base model offers a functional and well-built interior, but the Sport model adds a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob.
- Exterior: As mentioned earlier, the Sport model includes sporty exterior design elements like alloy wheels, fog lights, and a rear spoiler, which are absent in the base model.
- Technology: The Sport model offers additional technology options, including the availability of a navigation system and upgraded audio system.
In summary, while the base model of the 2009 Honda Fit provides excellent value and practicality, the Fit Sport adds a layer of excitement and sophistication that appeals to a wider range of drivers.
Engine Performance and Fuel Efficiency
The 2009 Honda Fit Sport is not just another compact vehicle; it is a well-engineered blend of performance and efficiency, designed to cater to both city commuters and long-distance travelers. At the heart of this vehicle is a **1.5-liter i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine** that generates a respectable **117 horsepower at 6,600 rpm** and **106 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm**. The engine’s design incorporates Honda’s renowned **Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (i-VTEC)** system, which optimizes both performance and fuel efficiency by adjusting the timing of valve opening and closing based on the vehicles speed and load.
The Fit Sport is available with either a smooth-shifting **5-speed manual transmission** or an advanced **5-speed automatic transmission**. The automatic variant includes **paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel**, allowing for a more engaged driving experience when desired. This combination of advanced transmission options complements the vehicle’s nimble nature, making it exceptionally responsive, whether navigating city streets or open highways.
**Fuel efficiency** is one of the standout features of the 2009 Honda Fit Sport, highly appealing to eco-conscious drivers and those looking to save on fuel costs. The manual transmission model achieves an **EPA-estimated fuel economy** of **27 mpg in the city** and **33 mpg on the highway**. The automatic version boasts comparable ratings, making the Fit Sport one of the most fuel-efficient vehicles in its class during its time.
In addition to its efficient engine, the Fit Sport’s **lightweight frame** and **aerodynamic design** contribute significantly to its performance and fuel economy. The **electric power-assisted steering system** not only enhances the driving experience by providing precise control but also reduces the load on the engine, further improving fuel efficiency.
Interior Design and Versatility
Stepping into the 2009 Honda Fit Sport reveals an interior designed with practicality and comfort in mind. Honda has expertly utilized the vehicle’s compact dimensions to create a surprisingly spacious and versatile cabin, setting a benchmark in the subcompact category.
Magic Seat
One of the key features is the innovative **”Magic Seat,”** a versatile **60/40 split rear seat** that offers multiple configurations to accommodate various cargo and passenger needs. The seats can be **folded flat** to create a large, flat load floor, ideal for transporting bulky items. Alternatively, the seat cushions can be **flipped up** to create a tall storage area, perfect for taller items that need to be transported standing up. This level of versatility ensures that the Fit Sport can handle a wide range of cargo, from groceries to sports equipment, making it an ideal vehicle for individuals with active lifestyles.
Interior Materials and Build Quality
The **interior materials and build quality** are another highlight, with Honda opting for durable yet comfortable fabrics and plastics. The front seats are **well-cushioned** and provide ample support for long drives. The driver’s seat features adjustable settings, and the ergonomically designed dashboard ensures that all controls are within easy reach. The Fit Sport also comes with a **leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob**, adding a touch of sophistication to the cabin.
Technology and Features
In terms of technology, the Fit Sport is packed with features that enhance comfort and convenience. The vehicle includes a **160-watt AM/FM/CD audio system** with **6 speakers**, **MP3/WMA playback capability**, and an **auxiliary input jack**, allowing passengers to enjoy high-quality sound whether listening to the radio or their personal playlists. Additionally, the **steering-wheel-mounted audio controls** provide easy access to music settings without distracting the driver.
The **climate control system** is straightforward and effective, maintaining a comfortable cabin environment irrespective of the external weather conditions. **Storage compartments** are thoughtfully placed throughout the cabin, offering ample space for personal items, making the Fit Sport not only a driver’s car but also a family-friendly vehicle.
Overall, the interior design of the 2009 Honda Fit Sport exemplifies Honda’s commitment to blending functionality with comfort, ensuring that every journey is as enjoyable as it is practical.
FAQS
1. Q: What engine is equipped in the 2009 Honda Fit Sport?
A: The 2009 Honda Fit Sport is equipped with a 1.5-liter, 4-cylinder engine.
2. Q: Does the 2009 Honda Fit Sport feature a manual or automatic transmission?
A: The 2009 Honda Fit Sport offers both a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed automatic transmission.
3. Q: What kind of fuel efficiency can you expect from the 2009 Honda Fit Sport?
A: The 2009 Honda Fit Sport has an estimated fuel efficiency of 27 mpg city and 33 mpg highway.
4. Q: Are there any notable interior features in the 2009 Honda Fit Sport?
A: Yes, the 2009 Honda Fit Sport includes features like a 160-watt AM/FM/CD audio system with 6 speakers, USB audio interface, and cruise control.
5. Q: Does the 2009 Honda Fit Sport come with any advanced safety features?
A: The 2009 Honda Fit Sport is equipped with standard safety features such as anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic brake distribution (EBD), and dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags.
