Honda Fit 1,5 DOHC i-MMD e-CVT Hybrid

Honda has become known as a pioneer of hybrid technology and the latest Fit e:HEV hopes to benefit from that reputation

- By Nikesh Kooverjees, Damian Adams, Ray Leathern

• Price: R484 000
• 0 to 100 km/h: 10,46 seconds
• Top speed: 175 km/h
• Power: 80 kW
• Torque: 253 N.m
• CAR Fuel index: 4,44 L/100km
• CO2: 88 g/km

This is the first time we've seen the e:HEV badge from Honda and it's just the beginning of things to come from the Japanese brand with the new HR-V crossover on the horizon. Back in our October 2021 issue, we tested the new Honda Fit in 1,5 i-VTEC Executive guise and were pleased to find that regardless of the name change, the Fit improved on the previous Jazz with added tech, refinement, and clever packaging. With this hybrid-powered e:HEV, the basic product is unchanged compared to the Executive model except for two main features. First, the hybrid system uses a lithium-ion battery and two compact electric motors working in conjunction with the 1,5-litre petrol engine. The second key addition is Honda's suite of active safety technology. This package is standard fitment on the e:HEV and includes collision-mitigation braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, road departure mitigation, and auto high beams. This safety package elevates the driving experience but it's a pity the adaptive cruise control system becomes inoperable below 20 km/h.