Honda Fit in China undergoes long-awaited minor change: A comprehensive look at the new design and evolution

China Honda (GAC-Honda) will make minor changes to its compact car, the Fit, scheduled for release in August 2025.

The Honda Fit has long established itself as a core compact car in the Honda lineup. It is about to undergo major improvements that are attracting attention both domestically and internationally. In particular, as if to indicate trends in the global market, the design of the facelift model for the Chinese market has been revealed in advance, further raising expectations for the minor changes for the Japanese market.

The current fourth-generation Fit debuted in 2019 and has already undergone a minor change in October 2022, including a design change and a powertrain refresh, but the next evolution has the potential to be even larger in scale. In this article, we will comprehensively delve into information about the latest Fit, providing a full picture of its evolution, from design changes to performance, equipment, price, and release date.

Summary of Honda’s new Fit minor changes

Boldly transformed exterior design: a new generation look

The most notable feature about the new Fit, scheduled to be released in 2025, is its major revamp of its exterior design. This information was revealed through images of the facelifted Fit produced by GAC-Honda, which were released through China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), which is required to submit vehicle information before the announcement of a new vehicle. It is highly likely that the Japanese model will adopt a similar design.

Looking at the released images, the front face has been completely transformed from the friendly atmosphere of the current model, giving it a cutting-edge, sharp impression. The biggest feature is the design of the headlights. The headlights that made up the soft look of the current model have been changed to a new design that is divided into upper and lower halves. The upper lights that extend to the left and right from the emblem are thinner and sharper in shape, and the configuration with smaller lights placed below them is a major departure from the Fit’s previous design concept. Some have said that the aggressive look is reminiscent of the Toyota Yaris.

The front bumper design has also been revamped, with the lower intakes now more prominent and the nose now more sculpted and three-dimensional. In the 2022 minor change, the crease at the top of the grille-less design emblem was changed to a curved treatment that matched the body lines, but this change has been taken even further, creating a completely new look.

The side profile appears to be largely the same as the current model, but the rear design has also been modified: the lower part of the rear bumper now features a black plastic extension reminiscent of a diffuser, enhancing the sporty look.

In terms of body size, the China-spec facelift model is 4,196mm long, slightly longer than the current Japanese model (3,995mm long). It is currently unclear whether the new Japanese-spec Fit will be this size, but there is a possibility that it will be slightly resized due to the design changes. It will also be interesting to see how the crossover-style “CROSSTAR” and sporty grade “RS” will be developed with the new design.

Furthermore, the improved exterior quality is also not to be missed. Honda plans to introduce a new clear paint, which has been adopted in recent years for other models such as the Freed and Vezel, to the new Fit. By using a new, more functional clear material instead of the conventional acrylic melamine clear material, the glossiness of the body will be further enhanced and durability such as scratch resistance will be improved by more than 1.5 times compared to the previous model. In addition, new body colors will be available, allowing customers to choose a car that suits their preferences from a wider range of options.

Refined interior: Pursuing comfort and ease of use

While the specific changes to the interior of the new Fit have not yet been announced, the high level of comfort and functionality offered by the current model will undoubtedly be inherited and improved. The interior of the current Fit has been highly praised for its design, which pursues comfortable visibility and ease of use.

In the 2022 minor change, the interior materials were revised and new interior colors were added, improving the quality. Each grade (basic “BASIC”, comfortable “HOME”, high-quality “LUXE”, active “CROSSTAR”, and sporty “RS”) offers its own interior coordination to meet the diverse lifestyles of users.

When you sit in the driver’s seat, you’ll first notice the outstanding visibility created by the horizontal, linear instrument panel and the extremely thin front pillars. The A-pillars have an ingenious cross-sectional structure that distributes the load to the body in the event of a collision, ensuring sufficient collision safety performance while also achieving a wide field of view with few blind spots. Furthermore, careful attention to detail, such as positioning the wipers in a less visible position, has been paid to ensuring a comfortable field of view while driving.

A 7-inch full-color LCD meter is standard on all vehicles. It features a simple design that eliminates the need for a meter visor thanks to an anti-reflective surface and optimized installation angle. Vehicle speed is displayed in large numbers, and the setting status of the adaptive cruise control (ACC) and the energy flow of the hybrid system are also displayed in an easy-to-understand manner.

The car also comes with a full range of connected features. The dealer-option Honda CONNECT compatible navigation system offers a variety of functions, including an “Automatic Map Update Service” that automatically updates the map with new information, and “In-Car Wi-Fi” that turns the inside of the car into a Wi-Fi hotspot. Some grades are also equipped with premium audio that allows you to enjoy immersive sound.

The center console is equipped with a “flexible attachment table” (with some exceptions) that utilizes the space created by the adoption of the electric parking brake. By attaching and detaching the attachment, it can be used flexibly as a place to put small items or as a drink holder, increasing convenience.

The seats are also packed with Honda’s attention to detail. The front seats feature a newly developed “body stabilizing seat,” which was also designed for installation in high-end sedans. The frame structure stabilizes the pelvis and the structure supports the body across the entire surface, providing excellent support and reducing fatigue even on long drives. In addition, the seat padding has been increased by more than 30 mm in the front and 24 mm in the rear, providing a softer seating experience.

Furthermore, efforts have been made to improve quietness. In addition to increasing the rigidity of various parts of the body to suppress vibration, the seal around the doors has been improved and urethane foam has been filled inside the A-pillars and B-pillars to reduce the intrusion of noise from outside. The area of ​​sound-insulating material on the dashboard and instrument panel has also been increased to reduce the intrusion of engine noise into the cabin. In particular, on the hybrid model, all three engine mounts are made of resin and the capacity of the liquid-sealed side mounts has been increased to effectively suppress the transmission of engine vibration.

In the partial improvement in September 2024, all grades will be equipped with “auto-retractable mirrors,” “auto power windows for all seats,” “passenger seat back pocket,” and “luggage room lamp” as standard equipment, further improving convenience. These comfort and functionality are expected to be inherited or even further improved in the new Fit.

Powertrain: Highly efficient “e:HEV” and powerful 1.5L gasoline engine

The powertrain configuration, which was revamped in the 2022 minor change, is expected to be carried over to the new Fit. The current Fit lineup includes two models: one equipped with Honda’s unique two-motor hybrid system, “e:HEV,” and one equipped with a 1.5L inline four-cylinder gasoline engine.

The e:HEV system combines excellent fuel economy with linear, powerful acceleration by seamlessly switching between three modes—EV Drive Mode, Hybrid Drive Mode, and Engine Drive Mode—according to driving conditions. The engine primarily generates electricity, while the e:HEV is primarily driven by the motor, allowing for a smooth ride similar to that of an electric vehicle in many everyday situations. The 2022 upgrade saw the drive motor’s maximum output increase from 109 horsepower to 123 horsepower, generating a maximum output of 25.8 kgm (253 Nm). This improves accelerator response and delivers more powerful, stress-free acceleration. At the same time, improved engine efficiency, combined with a smaller and lighter IPU (Intelligent Power Unit) that integrates the battery and control unit, and a more efficient PCU (Power Control Unit), also contribute to improved fuel economy. The 1.5L Atkinson cycle engine that is paired with it produces a maximum output of 106 horsepower and a maximum torque of 13.0 kgm (127 Nm).

Meanwhile, the gasoline model is equipped with a 1.5L inline 4-cylinder DOHC i-VTEC engine. This was upgraded in 2022 and replaced the previous 1.3L engine. It delivers a maximum output of 118 horsepower and a maximum torque of 14.5 kgm (142 Nm), a significant increase in power compared to the previous 1.3L engine (98 horsepower/12.0 kgm). This provides ample power performance for merging onto the highway, accelerating to overtake, and climbing hills, allowing for a more agile and brisk ride. The transmission is mated to a CVT.

Both the e:HEV and gasoline models are available with a choice of FF (front-wheel drive) or 4WD (four-wheel drive). However, the new GAC-Honda Fit unveiled in China is only available with a 1.5L gasoline engine with a maximum output of 122 horsepower (slightly higher than the Japanese model), and the drive system is FF only. It is unlikely that the new Japanese model Fit will have this powertrain configuration, but we await an official announcement in the future.

Excellent fuel economy: e:HEV exceeds 30km/L

Fuel efficiency is an important factor when choosing a compact car. The current Fit has achieved excellent fuel efficiency thanks to an updated powertrain. WLTC mode fuel efficiency is as follows:

• e:HEV model:
  • FF: 30.2 km/L
  • 4WD: 25.4 km/L
• 1.5L gasoline model:
  • FF: 18.7 km/L
  • 4WD: 16.6 km/L

The e:HEV model has improved driving performance through increased motor output, while the high efficiency of the system has enabled it to achieve excellent fuel economy of 30.2 km/L for FF vehicles (FF vehicles before the 2022 improvement were 29.4 km/L). As the motor driving range has been expanded, improvements in practical fuel economy can also be expected.

On the other hand, the gasoline model’s engine displacement has been increased from 1.3L to 1.5L, and as a result of prioritizing driving performance, the fuel economy is 18.7km/L for FF vehicles (20.4km/L for the 1.3L FF vehicle before the improvement). However, this is sufficient fuel economy for everyday driving, and it strikes a good balance between powerful driving and economy.

These excellent fuel economy performances are expected to be maintained in the new Fit as well.

Safety performance: Expectations for further evolution of “Honda SENSING”

The Fit also leads its class in terms of safety performance. The current model comes standard with the advanced Honda SENSING safety driving support system on all types.

The core of this system is the “Front Wide View Camera” installed at the top of the windshield. With an effective horizontal angle of view of approximately 100 degrees, it can detect a wide range in front of the vehicle. This system has evolved from the previous combination of millimeter-wave radar and camera to a system that can measure the distance to an object using only this monocular camera (however, millimeter-wave radar is also used in ACC and other functions). Combined with a high-speed image processing chip, the accuracy of functions such as Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Pedestrian Accident Mitigation Steering, Road Departure Prevention Function, Leading Vehicle Departure Notification Function, and Sign Recognition Function has been improved.

Furthermore, the placement of a total of eight sonar sensors in the front and rear bumpers of the vehicle has improved the vehicle’s ability to detect obstacles at close range. This enables the “False Start Prevention Function” and “False Rear Start Prevention Function” to prevent accidental starts caused by pedal misapplication, as well as the parking sensor system to warn of approaching obstacles when parking.

The 2022 minor change saw further expansion of functions. The Traffic Jam Assist function was added to reduce the driver’s burden when stuck in traffic on highways and other roads, and the scope of application of the ACC (Adaptive Cruise Control) with Traffic Jam Following function and the Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) was expanded. A new function, the Sudden Acceleration Suppression function, was also added, which suppresses acceleration when the accelerator pedal is accidentally pressed instead of the brake pedal (this may require the installation of a dealer-optioned navigation system).

In addition, new features have been added (set by type) such as “Blind Spot Information,” which detects and alerts vehicles diagonally behind the vehicle, and “Back-Up Exit Support,” which detects vehicles approaching from the left and right when backing into a parking lot, creating an environment where you can drive with even greater peace of mind.

“Auto high beam” that supports visibility at night is also standard equipment. Naturally, these comprehensive safety features will also be installed in the new Fit, and there is a possibility that further improvements in functionality and detection accuracy will be made.

Easy-to-handle size and improved chassis performance

One of the Fit’s attractions is its compact body size, perfectly suited to Japan’s road environment. The current model (RS, LUXE, HOME, BASIC) measures 3,995mm long, 1,695mm wide, and 1,515mm high (1,540mm or 1,565mm for 4WD), fitting within the 5-number vehicle registration frame. The wheelbase is 2,530mm, and the minimum turning radius is a mere 5.2m (varies by type), making it easy to maneuver and park on narrow roads. The crossover-style CROSSTAR model is the only one equipped with special fender arch moldings, making it 1,725mm wide, making it a 3-number vehicle. The CROSSTAR’s ground clearance is also higher at 155mm (FF) than the standard model’s 135mm (FF), improving its off-road performance.

Although compact, the Fit’s major feature is that its unique center tank layout provides a spacious interior and luggage space that allows for a variety of seat arrangements.

The body frame actively uses high-tensile steel plates (high-tensile materials) that are lightweight yet strong. In particular, the proportion of ultra-high-tensile steel plates of 980 MPa class or higher has been significantly increased from 10% in the previous model to 18%. This achieves both lighter weight and higher rigidity, contributing to excellent driving performance, fuel economy, and collision safety. The bending rigidity of the entire body has been improved by 6%, and the torsional rigidity by 13%.

The suspension has also been improved to achieve a high level of balance between ride comfort and handling stability. The front suspension has been optimized with reduced friction and improved steering response, resulting in smoother cornering. The rear suspension uses an “input isolation damper mount” structure that flexibly absorbs shocks from the road surface. In the 2022 improvement, this mount structure has been revised to a two-point fastening via an aluminum die-cast bracket, and the pressure-receiving area of ​​the mount rubber has been increased by 1.3 times, reducing road noise and improving ride comfort.

These basic performance features are expected to be maintained and improved in the new Fit.

Price and release date: August 2025? Price may rise slightly

The current price range of the Fit (including consumption tax) is as follows:

• 1.5L gasoline model:
  • BASIC: 1,720,400 yen (FF) – 2,506,900 yen (LUXE 4WD)
• e:HEV model:
  • e:HEV BASIC: 2,138,400 yen (FF) ~ 2,846,800 yen (e:HEV LUXE 4WD)
• Special edition vehicle “HOME BLACK STYLE”:
  • Gasoline FF: 2,107,600 yen
  • e:HEV FF: 2,450,800 yen

There has been no official announcement yet regarding the price of the minor change model scheduled for release in August 2025. However, taking into account the revamped design, improved functionality, and the recent rise in raw material and logistics costs, the price is likely to increase by around 100,000 yen from the current model. For the official price, grade configuration, and detailed release date, we will have to wait for an official announcement from Honda in the future.

The Fit as a global model and its unique development in the Chinese market

The Honda Fit is a global strategic vehicle sold not only in Japan, but also in many countries and regions, including Europe and Asia. Overseas, it is primarily known as the “Jazz.” The current fourth-generation model was announced in 2019 and underwent a minor change in 2022 in Japan and Europe. While it has a spacious interior like a minivan, it is classified as a small hatchback (B segment). While it shares part of its platform with the global model Honda Vezel (known overseas as HR-V), the Vezel/HR-V’s design differs depending on the market.

What’s interesting is the Fit’s development in the Chinese market. In China, Honda operates through two companies: GAC-Honda, a joint venture with Guangzhou Automobile Group, and Dongfeng Honda, a joint venture with Dongfeng Motor Group. The Fit is produced and sold by GAC-Honda, but Dongfeng Honda has been selling a Fit-based model called the Life since 2020. This Life has a slightly different front bumper design and taillight design from the Fit, giving it its own unique character. The facelift design unveiled this time is for the GAC-Honda version of the Fit, and the Dongfeng-Honda version of the Life may also receive a mid-lifecycle update in the future, but it is thought that the design may be closer to the European and Japanese specifications.

A word from the editorial department

With a minor change expected in August 2025, the Honda Fit is about to evolve to a new stage. In particular, the major exterior design changes revealed in leaked information have the potential to completely overturn the Fit’s image to date, and are attracting a lot of attention. With a cutting-edge, sharp front fascia, improved body texture, and the addition of new body colors, it is sure to appeal strongly to design-conscious users.

Of course, the new model will surely inherit the Fit’s original merits, such as excellent visibility, spacious interior, versatile seating arrangements, the highly efficient e:HEV and powerful gasoline engine, and class-leading safety performance. The comfort, quietness, and chassis performance cultivated in the current model are also expected to be further improved.

Although the price is expected to rise slightly, there is no doubt that the evolution and value offered will be worth it. As a flagship compact car that supports Honda’s backbone, how will the new Fit appear and breathe new life into the compact car market in Japan and around the world? We can’t wait for its official announcement.

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