2012 Honda Fit a subcompact that delivers on space, efficiency, and reliability
One of the things that accounts for the Fit’s popularity is its deceptive roominess. With a little effort, you can get most of a bicycle into the back; theoretically, it will carry five adults.
In 2012, Honda’s popular Fit subcompact was well into its second generation, and it was business as usual for this reliable and practical vehicle.
Two trim levels were available: Base and Sport. While these trims are similar, the Sport version features a tuned suspension that gives it a stiffer ride, improving cornering at the expense of comfort. It tends to highlight every bump and dimple in the road.
Power comes from a 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine that produces 117 horsepower and 106 pound-feet of torque. This engine features a drive-by-wire throttle, variable valve timing, and a single overhead camshaft. Although not the most powerful engine in the small car category, it’s lively, refined, smooth, and highly usable. While it can be a bit loud on the highway, it’s nothing too bothersome.
Two transmission options were available: a five-speed manual and a five-speed automatic. The Sport trim includes Honda’s sequential Sportshift manual shift feature, allowing you to shift gears via steering-wheel-mounted paddles. The five-speed manual is also smooth and user-friendly, arguably one of the best in the industry.
Fuel economy remains a strong point. The 2012 Honda Fit delivers 7.1 litres/100 km in the city and 5.4 litres/100 km on the highway with the automatic transmission.
One of the Fit’s standout features is its deceptive roominess. With the rear seats folded down, it offers nearly 1,200 litres of cargo space. You can fit most of a bicycle into the back, and it can theoretically carry five adults, making it an extremely versatile subcompact.
The base model comes equipped with essential amenities such as air conditioning, power windows, tilt steering, cruise control, and power door locks. Additional features include fog lights, a navigation system, an MP3 player, keyless entry, and an upgraded stereo. Safety equipment includes front, side, and side curtain airbags, with front disc/rear drum brakes featuring anti-lock and electronic distribution. Some models also come with a traction control system, and electronic stability control was standard.
Transport Canada has one recall on file for the 2012 Fit related to the variable valve timing system, which could fail and result in a loss of power and the inability to restart the car. Dealers will replace the defective components. The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) also lists this recall and has four technical service bulletins, including issues with potentially loose seat mounting bolts and rear seatbelt buckles.
Owner feedback includes some common complaints:
- “The car’s steering is extremely over-responsive but unfortunately not speed-sensitive.”
- “I was sitting in the parked car listening to the radio before work when I saw a foot-long crack form halfway up the right edge of the windshield.”
- “The front driver seat rocks while making sharp turns.”
Consumer Reports gave the 2012 Fit high marks across the board, awarding it the Good Bet seal of approval. It was particularly praised for its reliability, though it did receive slightly lower marks for “squeaks and rattles,” body hardware, and the climate control system.
Owner comments to Consumer Reports include:
- “Visibility shortcomings make it difficult for short people.”
- “Ride is noisy and a bit rough.”
- “More cup-holders than the back of a church pew.”
J.D. Power rated the 2012 Honda Fit “among the best” for overall performance and design, and “about average” for overall quality and dependability. It received a top five-star rating for frontal impact and was named one of the Top Safety Picks by the U.S.-based Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Given its strong reputation and reliability, the 2012 Honda Fit has held its value well. As of 2024, used models typically sell for between $9,500 and $15,000, depending on the model and trim level.
2012 Honda Fit
Original base price: $14,580
Engine: 1.5-litre four-cylinder
Horsepower: 117
Torque: 106 foot pounds
Transmission: five-speed automatic or five-speed manual
Fuel economy (litres/100 km): 7.1 city and 5.5 highway, with automatic transmission and regular gas
Alternatives: Toyota Yaris, Chevrolet Aveo, Volkswagen City Golf, Hyundai Accent, Mazda3, Nissan Versa, Kia Rio, Suzuki Swift
Ted Laturnus has been an automotive journalist since 1976. He was named Canadian Automobile Journalist of the Year twice and is past president of the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC).
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