Why Honda Should Bring Retro Styling to the Next Fit.

Yes, the Honda Fit is still around, just not in North America. The popular subcompact hatchback continues to be sold in several markets around the world. And with the current generation dating back to 2019, a redesigned model could be closer than many people think. The illustrations above show what a next-generation Fit could look like. Something going back to a classic retro Small Honda look. And something with a bit more personality.

The Fit was sold in the United States until 2020 and built a loyal following over the years. Buyers loved its remarkable practicality, excellent fuel economy, reliability, and the very clever packaging that allowed it to offer interior space rivaling much larger vehicles. 

However, Honda eventually decided to focus its North American efforts on the HR-V. It was a more expensive vehicle with higher profit margins and, thanks to the growing popularity of crossovers, had the potential to appeal to a much larger audience. And it did. 

And Honda’s gamble paid off. Fit sales in the U.S. had dropped to just over 32,000 units in 2020 before the model was discontinued. Meanwhile, HR-V sales continued to climb and eventually reached levels the Fit had never achieved. With almost 150,000 of them sold in the US alone last year. While the larger American-market HR-V never truly replaced the unique character of the Fit, it became exactly the kind of vehicle most consumers were shopping for.

Yet the Fit’s reputation remains strong. Its ingenious Magic Seat system, compact footprint, and outstanding practicality have helped it maintain a devoted fan base. Even today, used examples are highly sought after, and many owners still consider it one of the smartest small cars Honda has ever built.

I think Honda should seriously consider taking a retro-inspired approach with the next Fit. The company has a rich history of clever small cars and distinctive hatchbacks that could provide plenty of inspiration. A modern interpretation of classic Honda design themes could help the next-generation Fit stand out in an increasingly crowded market filled with look-alike crossovers and electric vehicles. 

If Honda ever decides to bring the Fit back to North America, giving it a unique identity would be one of the best ways to reconnect with enthusiasts and attract a new generation of buyers.

We have seen a preview of their new Hybrid platform, which seems for larger cars like the Civic and Accord. With an even larger one with a V6 for the future Pilot and MDX. But there seems to be nothing on the horizon for a truly new compact car. 

It’s really too bad…