American Honda has priced the 2006 Honda Fit five-door hatchback at $US13,850 ahead of its 20 April launch and is claiming it will lead the subcompact segment with the most standard features in its class and “a unique level of interior functionality and a sporty driving character”.

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The Fit, known as the Jazz in most other markets outside Japan is making a late debut in the US after being launched in Japan around four years ago – it has since been slightly updated.


Most European markets have been offered the car with a choice of 1.2- or 1.4-litre petrol engines and standard five-speed manual or optional CVT automatic transmission with seven-step manual override facility – Japanese and Asian market choices include 1.3- and 1.5-litre engines.


There is also a Fit Aria sedan derivative made in Asia and sold in markets such as Japan, China and some Asian countries.


The US-specification Fit hatchback – no word yet on if the sedan will join the line – has a 109 horsepower, 1.5-litre, four-cylinder, VTEC engine with standard five-speed manual transmission. Optional automatic transmission, the likely choice of most US buyers, is also available, bringing the suggested retail price to $14,650.

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Standard safety features include dual-stage, dual-threshold front airbags, dual front side airbags, side-curtain airbags and an anti-lock braking system. Power windows and mirrors plus air conditioning are also on the ‘included’ list.


The $15,170 manual Sport model adds a rear roofline spoiler, aero body kit, fog lights, security system with keyless remote entry, cruise control, a 160-watt, six-speaker audio system and 15-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with P195/55R15 tyres. The $15,970 automatic version adds steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters for the gearbox’s ‘manual’ mode.


Key rivals in the US will include Toyota’s newly-launched Yaris hatchback (sold only in three-door form) and sedan and a variety of Korean models including the (also recently introduced) five-door Kia Rio hatchback.


Graeme Roberts