Bucket Seat: Honda FIT Hybrid e-CVT

Honda, although a house-hold name around the world and locally often gets overshadowed by it's Japanese counterpart, I mean rightfully so if you take a look at the NAMSA sales stats for the past 20 years. That's not to say Honda isn't good, it's just that they're different, their cars are made for a different target market, while the one aims for large volume of sales, Honda aims more for quality of product which is why their products tend to have a higher price tag than most. Of recent, the brand has undergone some changes in their cars line-up's with an interesting take on the design language, this transcends onto the interior as well with the cabins getting a more premium feel with better quality materials and ergonomic design making it look modern but with a slight retro touch. The FIT, which I drove when launched 2 years ago really impressed me, hence with the Hybrid model was introduced to the market this year, I was itching to get my hands on it to see how it fared against its Japanese cousins who, in my personal opinion have mastered the technology, so here's my take on Honda's car. 

DESIGN

The 2024 Honda Fit Hybrid’s design maintains the Fit’s signature boxy, compact look, maximizing interior space while staying highly maneuverable. The latest model has adopted a more streamlined, modern appearance with updated LED headlights, a refined front grille, and stylish yet subtle lines along the body. The shape is highly functional, designed to reduce drag and enhance fuel efficiency, while details like aerodynamic mirrors and underbody covers also contribute to the model’s low wind resistance. Colors are typically vibrant yet restrained, with options like Opal White, Lunar Silver, Platinum White, Rose Gold and the colour which I had on test, Crystal Red. 

PERFORMANCE

The Honda Fit Hybrid features Honda's e:HEV hybrid system, which combines a 1.5-liter DOHC i-VTEC engine with two electric motors. The result is a combined power output of approximately 90Kw and 253 Nm of torque, providing ample power for urban driving and light highway cruising.The Fit Hybrid operates primarily as an electric vehicle at lower speeds, switching to hybrid mode when more power is needed. At high speeds, the petrol engine takes over for maximum efficiency. This smart system allows the Fit Hybrid to achieve impressive fuel economy.  Unlike traditional transmissions, the Fit Hybrid uses an electronic CVT that minimizes fuel consumption and smoothens the driving experience by matching power output to demand without noticeable shifts.In real-world conditions, drivers can expect to average under 5L per 100km depending on driving habits and road conditions, but Honda claiming 3.7L per 100km which I think is achievable on urban runs. I did take this on a long distance journey thinking I'd get close to 800km on the 40L tank but I think a combination of aggressive driving and not ideal road conditions made me miss this mark by about 120km. The range did seem to drastically drop since showing 100km of range left, so not sure if it's just Honda's way of being extra cautious or it was really dropping that way, either way I had to do some driving on range 0km before making it to a fuel station to fill up. 

COMFORT

Honda has maximized the interior space with the Fit Hybrid’s Magic Seat system, allowing for flexible configurations. The seats can be arranged in Utility Mode, Tall Mode, Long Mode, and Refresh Mode, enabling storage for larger items or creating extra passenger space as needed. As mentioned earlier, the quality of materials has definitely gotten an upgrade, soft-touch materials and well-padded seats offer comfort for long drives. The seats themselves are ergonomic, providing good support, and the available leather trim enhances the premium feel. The Fit’s tall roofline provides excellent headroom for both front and rear passengers, while legroom is ample given the car’s compact size. Cargo space is substantial, with 470 liters available with the seats up, and up to 1,145 liters when the rear seats are folded.Honda equips the Fit Hybrid with modern tech, even at entry-level trims. Features like an infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen standard, offering smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. All models feature Bluetooth, USB ports, and an auxiliary input. Honda's app integration and touchscreen interface are user-friendly, it also has wireless charging. On the highway, the Fit Hybrid is stable and composed, though the engine can be noisy when pushed hard. However, it handles road imperfections well, with suspension tuned for a balanced ride. The overall experience is smooth, efficient, and comfortable for both short commutes and longer trip 

VERDICT

The Honda Fit Hybrid is a practical, versatile, and highly efficient hatchback ideal for drivers seeking a fuel-efficient, low-emission vehicle without compromising on space and flexibility. It’s particularly well-suited for city dwellers who appreciate compact cars with advanced safety features and versatile interiors. While it may lack the acceleration of some rivals, its balanced ride, ease of use, and standout fuel economy make it a solid choice for daily commuting and light family use. The price point of this car is one that stands out, for what you're paying, it's Japanese competitor offers bigger and cheaper alternatives in their hybrid range, while in the Honda you are getting more features in-terms of tech and safety, I'm not sure if it would be enough to persuade the buyer who is more worried about his pocket than nice to haves. 

 SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	1.5L i-MMD Hybrid
Gear Box	eCVT Automatic
Torque	253Nm
Power	90kW
Fuel Consumption	3.7L per 100km
Price	R544,900

Bucket Seat: Honda H-RV 1.5 Executive

When it comes to Japanese car manufacturers, reliability is the key word that rings out and with good reason. Most cars that come out of Japan are bulletproof and the two biggest brands being Toyota and Honda have grown quite a cult following over the years. While the cars were pretty solid in terms of build quality and reliability, there was that perception of them being bland and boring. It is true, there was nothing exciting about the cars coming out of Japan, while there were select few one off models, the rest of the line-ups were not much to look at but still maintained steady sales because of the brand heritage. Over the past two years, Toyota have picked up on this and have really made great strides into changing their philosophy and have produced great cars since, with the further introduction of new models and brands into 2023. What about Honda though? The tag line reads power of dreams but other than the Civic Type-R, nothing else in their model line-up screams it. Well, to their credit they have been working behind the scenes have slowly released some of their new models that encapsulates their direction of their new design philosophy and I must say, while they may not be drastic in design they've certainly upped their game in other departments. I first got to sample this with their new Ballade last year before spinning around in the new FIT (ex Jazz), a few weeks ago I had the new H-RV on test and I was blown away with this car, which I'll explain in my review. 

DESIGN

Fresh new face to the H-RV and change in the overall body shape, moving away from that bubble like chassis to a more straight and square look. The front is fierce and commanding with the colour coded grille being the main feature with a chrome bar that extends to the new front headlamps which has an LED day-time running lamp that follows the contours of the bar. It's a very clean finish with very little folds and creases as it runs down to the mesh radiator cooler with LED fog lamps on either side. I had the Executive model on test which came with 18-inch black alloy wheels, the Comfort model features 17-inch alloy wheels. The side profile is pretty attractive with that sharp slanted tailgate line giving off the crossover coupe vibe and the rear design is finished very elegantly and sport with the solid bar light that runs across with tear dropped styled rear LED lights which wrap around the side. Almost looking like the Porsche Macan. If you think Honda knocked it out the park with the exterior design, wait till you jump on inside, okay look it's nothing extravagant but the look they trying to achieve was clean, minimalistic and modern, they've certainly nailed it in my opinion with everything so well laid out and the finishes made me weirdly excited to sit inside and touch everything. It's hard to explain and something you just need to experience, the attention to detail is immaculate, only something the Japanese could perfect, everything from the quality of the plastics to the frosted screen coverings for the aircon controls was impeccable. 

PERFORMANCE

Here's where I might get shot for hyping this car so much, the H-RV is powered by a 1.5-litre Chain Driven DOHC i-VTEC motor which produces 89kW and 145Nm of torque. Hardly much to write home about, and I you must be thinking I'm going to drop the "but its not meant for performance, its meant for cruising" line but my God this thing can be frustrating when trying to pick up speed. The CVT gearbox does it no favours at all and while there is a "S" sport gear and paddle shift, which does improve performance ever so slightly, it does sky rocket your average consumption, which with todays fuel price won't be very healthy on your bank balance. Honda claim an average combined fuel economy of 6L per 100km but I was averaging around 8 with my heavy foot. But look, if you not in a rush, the H-RV is superb, with well timed gear shifts, a smooth acceleration, brilliant ride comfort and great handling and steering with minimal body roll. It's not meant to be an old persons type of car but it serves as a brilliant city car and that is what I loved about it. 

COMFORT

Apart from the great interior design, quality of materials used, the H-RV is extremely comfortable. The front seats are ergonomically designed for good posture and great comfort. Both front seats were electrically adjustable which was a nice surprise. They front occupants also get dual zone climate control as well as heated leather seats. The 8-inch infotainment touch screen has an easy to use interface and has plug and play mobile application integration. The head unit for the screen was a bit odd, with it flowing into the dash like a 1980's tube television. Not sure why Honda opted for this vs the floating tablet finish is an odd one but I suppose it works and makes the screen more secure. Another odd one was the placements of the USB ports which were mid-dash above the separation from wireless charging mat, with the mobile application only being a hardwired connection, it made it a bit cumbersome to have wires dangling around and ruined the aesthetics of the great interior design. The car comes with a split panoramic glass roof which I found out doesn't open, it was a bit of a bummer but at the same time I am not a massive fan of driving around with the sunroof open but rather just the curtain, so this worked out well for me. The rear passengers get to enjoy the same quality seats but what surprised me the most was the amount of leg room they had at the back! I'm a tall guy and with my seat properly adjusted to suit my height, there was still ample amount of space in the back for the passenger to lounge behind me! The luggage compartment is a decent size, coming in at 304L but with the rear seats folded down, this extends to 956L. The tail gate is power operated and can be opened with the key. 

VERDICT

Overall, the H-RV left a great impression on me, so much so I am actually thinking of adding one to my garage. The price tag is a bit of a stinger but seeing that Honda hasn't messed about with the quality of product they got here, I can sort of understand why it is what it is. There is a loads on offer with the car and after spending a week with it, I was smitten with it. Even for a person like me, who likes to zip around quite fast, I found my self sitting in the middle lane of the highway, cruising along listening to some great music and enjoying the drive home or to the office office. As with all Honda's, the safety features are in abundance with it having ABS, EBA, VSA, Lane Watch, Driver attention monitor, tyre pressure monitor, High beam assist, Active cornering lights and the list goes on. It's a practical family car, perfectly suited for small to medium families. Certainly a car that won me over with it's charm. 

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	1.5L DOHC i-VTEC
Gear Box	CVT
Torque	145Nm
Power	89kW
Fuel economy	6L/ 100km/h
Price	R554,500

 

Bucket Seat: Honda FIT

I'm the type of person that gets irked by the strangest things, one of them is when brands decide to rename their cars. Like why? Did you need a Tax write off so you decided to spend money on changing the name of your car that had a perfectly good name to begin with? I just don't see the need for it and no, it has nothing to do with me getting old as I have had this issue since I was a young lad, it helps with progression and to keep track of models from before but then again I'm just a guy who drives these cars, not the person in charge of a major global manufacturer, so what do I know? In any case, today's review is about a car that had its name changed, well to be fair, the Jazz was known as the FIT in other parts of the world but we called it the Jazz so now they probably just keeping it to one name but never the less, the name is only that much relevant, its what it has to offer and how it drives that matters most, so here's more about the actual car than me bitching about what its known as. 

DESIGN

In keeping with the small MPV design, I think Honda has done a superb job in keeping it small, but at the same time bold. The contours and lines make the car look very futuristic and modern but has that smooth element to its design that makes it quite pleasing to look at. The large beady headlamps are accentuated with the LED daytime running lights that border the outline of it. The grille almost non-existent apart from a tiny slot where the bonnet meets the bumper, this almost gives the impression that the car is an EV. The side profile of the car has a lot of unusual lines but they all sort of work in harmony. Although the car is a compact model, the large windows do create the impression that the car is bigger than it actually is, the same works when you're sitting on the inside, apart from all of natural light that comes in, your view is just sublime, with the extended dash and more forward slanted windscreen, the extra side windows make it seem you're sitting in an airplane cockpit rather than a car. The back end of the FIT is also very neatly rounded off with large tail lights which design is followed through to the number plate display. Overall its a pretty attractive looking package from Honda, that really makes this model look more mature than the outgoing Jazz. 

PERFORMANCE

While I did mention the FIT looks like an EV with its very minimal grille, there is a PHEV option but I had the 1.5L chain driven DOHC i-VTEC offering. This model came with the automatic CVT gearbox which many love to hate but as the brands seem to be sticking to this technology, maybe its not the issue, maybe we are? The engine delivers 89kW of power and 145Nm of torque which is adequate for a car this size, seeing that the predominant drivers wont be lining up for any drag races as the only race they have is to be on time at school before the bell rings, that being said the claimed top speed on this model is 190km/h. While figures are quite low, you don't really seem to mind as with a car of this nature its meant for cruising around and my word does it do that well. It doubles up brilliantly as a city car as its easy to drive around and very simple to park in tight spots. With its tiny engine, you'd expect the fuel economy to be quite low, and you would be correct as the FIT averages 5.5L per 100km, given that I only had it for a week and with time constraints I could really achieve that but getting it to under 6.5L for mixed driving wasn't bad if you ask me. 

COMFORT

Not sure who was in charge of the design of this interior but whoever they are I'd like to give them a high-five because wow. Look, there is nothing spectacular at all about it buts probably one of the neatest and well thought out interior I've seen in a long time. The quality of the materials used to put it together is fantastic and the elements just work so well, it just makes it such a nice space to be in. The design can only be described as modern retro, or a futuristic interior from the 70s, from the dual spoke perfectly round steering wheel to the pin stripped material seats, it looks so chic and classy but like from the 70's. The seats although material based are so comfortable, almost sofa like. The dash is minimalistic but everything is symmetrical and well thought out, from the climate control toggles to the cup holders next to the steering wheel to keep your water/ coffee. The large TFT touch screen infotainment interface has mobile app connectivity and is finished off in a matte coating which reduces the finger print marks and make it look very cool when the car is switched off, this same coating is applied over the climate control screen and adds a very niche look to the interior. The instrument cluster is fully digital and features a large rev counter with the speed shown in digital characters. The side spacing has the usual warning lights should something go wrong. Space in the back is quite adequate for two grown-ups and has those same comfy seats. Luggage capacity on the FIT is at 390L as standard but with the back seats dropped, this figure increase to 1210L. 

VERDICT

I think what Honda have put together here is a great product and a much more mature version of the compact MPV we've gotten to know along the years. It's a much more well rounded off vehicle compared to the Jazz and has a certain element of luxury to it now so its befitting a name change that is echoing a new era in its life. I certainly enjoyed my time with it and while the pricing might be a bit more than its competition in the market, I request you to go see the car and it won't take you long to figure out why you're paying that extra money, it is definitely well worth it, with the reliability history of the brand, that just ensures this is no brainer if you're looking for a car in this type of segment. 

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	1.5L DOHC i-VTEC
Gear Box	6-Speed Automatic CVT
Torque	145Nm
Power	89kW
Top Speed	190km
Price	R370,700

 

Bucket Seat: Honda Ballade

When it comes to mid-sized sedans on the market, there is only one car that comes to mind and that is the Toyota Corolla. While there have been some competition coming in from the likes of the Koreans, there hasn't been something worthy to steer peoples heads away from the Japanese manufacturers most successful car, well maybe it needed competition from a brand from its on country? Step in Honda with their all new Ballade, a car which was quite popular in SA in the 80's and early 90's. Unfortunately for the brand, it seemed to fizzle out in the late 90's and with the introduction of the Civic the famed Ballade was all but forgotten. Honda did re-introduce the name a few years back but the model didn't do as well as they hoped it would do but now with an all-new design and offering they hoping to sway the heads of some. I got to spend a week with the new Ballade Elegance CVT, and I have to say it was more than what I expected. 

Starting off with the design, I think Honda did a great job, while the car isn't the biggest around, the low and long approach gives the car a bigger look that it actually is. With wide headlamps adding that extra width look to the car and that solid bar grille really makes the car stand out. Even with the rims, the multi-spoke look give the impression that the wheels are bigger than what they really are. The design is very clean and elegant, not like its larger brother the Civic, it looks a bit American if you ask me, not that it is a bad thing but just looks more professional in its stance. Stepping inside, its much of the same, very business like cabin with all your buttons and controls neatly laid out, no funky lighting and an large 7" infotainment screen. The seats are comfortable, the interior spacious and what surprised me was all the tech you get with the car as standard. I mean the key has a button to start the cars ignition while you standing outside! What the purpose of that you might ask? Well its more for countries with colder climates so you can get the engine warmed up before your journey as well as get the cabin acclimatized before you get in. 

Performance on the new Ballade, all variants come fitted with a 1.5L DOHC i-Vetc 4 cylinder petrol engine. Power output on it is 89kW and 145Nm, the car is fitted with a CVT automatic gearbox but overall I think this combination proves to do well with the car. As it is aimed at smaller families, the car has enough power for urban trips as well as long highway travels. I hardly found myself straining the engine on commutes and unlike other CVT gearboxes there was no searching for gears or high revving for no reason. Honda claim a 5.5L per 100km but with my time with the car, I only managed to get around 6.8L which still isn't too bad for a car of this size and nature. 

As mentioned the car is pretty comfortable, the top of the range model comes with keyless entry, the infotainment screen has built-in applications as well as a USB input and Bluetooth connectivity. The car has single-zone climate control as well push button start. I love the interior finishes, while the seats are material, the use of different materials on the dash and steering wheel really gives the cabin a luxurious feel. The car comes with PDC's and a reverse camera, full multi-function steering wheel and VSC. The rear passengers have a decent amount of space and the seats are pretty comfy as well. The luggage capacity is generous with you being able to load quite a bit in the trunk. 

Overall, the new Ballade is a decent offering, for its price point it won't be here to steal Toyota's crown from the Corolla but it is offering a niche car in a segment between the Corolla and Corolla Quest. You're getting a solid car with a great reputation at a decent price which has most of the bells and whistles. Honda needs no introduction in terms of its re-sale value and reliability, it really is a great offering from them and doing that Ballade badge justice. 

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	1.5L DOHC i-Vtec
Gear Box	5-Speed Automatic CVT
Torque	145Nm
Power	89kW
Economy	5.5L per 100km
Price	R375,400

 

Bucket Seat: Honda HR-V

Honda is relatively the unsung hero of the car market, the quiet one which sits in the corner, minds its own business but gets along quite well. And while it might be odd for us, they're quite happy with how that's going for them and I have to agree, they doing quite well for themselves without causing much stir. Their cars are probably one of the most reliable ones on the market with excellent quality and great engines, I've had the opportunity to drive a few of their models last year and this year I got to sample the all new HR-V for a week. The hatch come crossover type car is one of the smaller models in the range but I was surprised with the amount of stuff you get in the car. It's about the same size as the Jazz, maybe just a bit bigger but my time with the car was seemingly satisfying, just like the brand, no whoo-haa, just brilliant at what its suppose to do. 

DESIGN

The HR-V's design follows design cues from the older Civic hatch with the round sculpted front and that solid grille with the Honda badge in the middle. The revised model which I had comes with LED day time running lights on the bottom part of the front headlights which enhances the car slightly. The raised ride height of the HR-V does help one differentiate it from a standard hatch back but there are other elements to it that add to this like the smaller windows and higher doors on the side profile. The back actually looks quite night, I love the way they've tied the sloping roof with the rear, to give it that sporty SUV look, then rear lights still have to grow on me, I feel like they didn't have to go with the extra portion at the bottom but thats just me. Overall from the outside, the HR-V is a stylish looking car and the colour I had it in is Brilliant Sporty Blue Metallic had a nice look to it, was nice and bright in sunlight but also blended well into the dark and not seem too over powering. 

PERFORMANCE

I had the 1.5 Comfort CVT model and while many will wonder how a small engine with an automatic gearbox will cope on a car of this size and with good reason too but I can report back to say it handled quite well. Fair enough you would get engine strain and it dropping gears on extreme circumstances when overtaking or going up a hill but other than that, whether it be urban driving or on the highway I felt it coped quite well. The engine is a SOHC i-VTEC 16V inline 4 cylinder which produces 88kW and 145NM of torque. Its an engine we're already used to as its also in the new Honda Jazz. With the increased ride height, driving the HR-V is a dream, very easy to control and doesn't have much body roll to it. It's not a car that's meant to be driven fast, more for the school run arounds and to and from the office and for that, it's perfect. 

COMFORT

The HR-V is a very spacious car, even though the is higher than normal, Honda didn't raise the seating positions as high so you're left with a lot of head room in the car. The cockpit design is interested with a raised certain console almost the same height as your arm rest so it gives off like a fighter jet feel to it. Everything is digital so it looks really cool at night. It has single zone climate control with variable fanspeed, heated seats which I found interesting in a car of this segment and everything else is virtually the same as the Jazz which I really like. The touch screen infotainment system is easy to use and navigate, I still don't know what the HDMI port is for though. Interesting to note is that the HR-V comes with an electronic hand brake. Moving into the back, it can seat three people with relative is, and the seats fold down to extend the luggage space from the boot. 

VERDICT

Like I said from the start, Honda are the quiet kids on the market that offer great value for money cars, some might interpret that to mean they're boring but trust me, its no where near that. Their reliability speaks for it self and the quality of the products they churn out is nothing short of exemplary. The HR-V being heavily based on one of their best sellers the Jazz could only spell great things for the model, while some might not be entirely happy with the 1.5L engine, there is a 1.8L offering which I would be pretty keen to get behind the wheel of to see how much difference the bigger engine makes. But overall, for what its intended purposes are for, the 1.5 is just right. 

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	1.5 SOHC i-VTEC 16V
Gear Box	5 Speed CVT
Torque	145Nm
Top Speed	179kph
Economy	6.3 L/100km
Price	R288,700