Which Honda Fit is better: Petrol or hybrid?

INTRODUCED to the local automotive realm mid-way through 2021, the latest Honda Fit is an enticing B-segment hatchback package that offers the brand’s renowned reliability in a good-looking and well-built form.

The decline of the small-capacity diesel engines has seen the rise of the petrol-electric hybrid in many countries around the world, and we now see the arrival of a hybrid model within Honda’s B-segment hatchback again.

For today’s comparison, we will use the flagship hybrid version of the Fit and compare it with the most highly specified petrol-only model to determine which one belongs in your garage.

The petrol model

Powering the petrol model is a 1,5-litre naturally aspirated engine that has been around for quite some time.

The unit produces a healthy 89kW and 145Nm of torque and is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) gearbox, making the petrol-powered Fit reasonably efficient with a claimed consumption figure of 5,5L/100km and CO2 emissions of 132g/km.

The hybrid

The Fit Hybrid features a mildly detuned version of the 1,5-litre petrol engine in the rest of the range.

However, the engine is aspirated with an electric model, bumping power to 80kW but, more importantly, torque to 253Nm.

The powertrain is also paired with a CVT, but is far more efficient, with a claimed fuel consumption figure of 3,7L/100km and CO2 emissions of just 88g/km.

The hybrid is also quite brisk, sprinting to 100km/h in a claimed 9,4 seconds.

Analysis

Looking at the figures, it is easy to assume that the hybrid version is the obvious choice; however, the top-spec petrol-only model is significantly less expensive, which means you would need to drive the hybrid version for years, before the actual fuel costs offset the initial price deficit.

Verdict

Having looked at the pricing, efficiency and performance of the two Fit powertrains, it is clear that the hybrid model is superior, but for those looking for the best value in the short to medium term, the good old petrol will still be better. — AutoTrader