The Honda Fit received a refresh at the end of 2023. This aside, just how economical is the hybrid model compared to some rivals in SA?
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Honda Fit 1.5 Hybrid Fast Facts
- Price: R544 900
- Engine: 1.5-litre, petrol
- Power: 90 kW @ 6 000 – 6 400 r/min
- Torque: 253 N.m @ 4 500 – 5 000 r/min
- Economy: 3.7 L/100 km (claimed)
- 0-100 km/h: 9.4 sec
- Hybrid Warranty: 8-years/200 000 km
- Vehicle Warranty: 5-years / 200 000 km
- Service Plan: 4-years/60 000 km
Image: Cayne Philander / Eighty Media
The Honda Fit Hybrid, also known as the Honda Fit eHEV, is a highly efficient city car. With the entire line-up refreshed at the end of 2023, the eHEV model also received several updates that not only enhanced its design but also underlined its engineering prowess. Central to the Honda Fit eHEV is its hybrid system, making it a strong contender in South Africa’s growing hybrid vehicle market.
The Fit eHEV’s hybrid powertrain is designed to provide a balance between performance, and efficiency. The eHEV (Electric Hybrid Electric Vehicle) system is a two-motor hybrid setup that combines a 1.5-litre Atkinson cycle petrol engine with two electric motors, a lithium-ion battery, and an e-CVT (Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission).
Read: Honda Fit 1,5 Hybrid CVT Driven
This system allows the Fit Hybrid to switch between three driving modes – EV Drive, Hybrid Drive, and Engine Drive – depending on the driving conditions and power requirements.
Other Hybrids in South Africa
The Honda Fit Hybrid faces stiff competition in the South African market, where fuel efficiency is a key consideration for consumers opting for a hybrid alternative. The Fit Hybrid offers remarkable fuel consumption figures, with a claimed figure of 3.7 L/100 km. This places it among the most fuel-efficient vehicles available in South Africa today.
Here’s how it compares to other hybrid models in the local market:
Toyota Corolla: The Toyota Corolla Hybrid is another popular option in South Africa, comprising hatchback, sedan, and crossover body styles. Pricing for each model begins at R536 500, R549 300, and R486 100, respectively, with the fuel rating claimed at 4.0 L/100 km (hatch), 3.9 L/100 km (sedan), and 4.3 L/100 km (crossover). The Corolla Cross 1.8 Hybrid XS is the most affordable hybrid vehicle in South Africa. Similar to the Honda Fit Hybrid, the Corolla Hybrid utilises a hybrid synergy drive system that optimises fuel efficiency through a combination of electric motor assistance and a 1.8-litre petrol engine. The total system output is 103 kW and 142 N.m.
Haval Jolion Pro HEV: This Chinese crossover has been in South Africa for a few years now, with the Pro models launching locally in June 2024. Headlining the Jolion Pro line-up is the HEV Ultra Luxury model, powered by a 1.5-litre petrol engine and an electric battery. The total system output for this powertrain is rated at 140 kW/375 N.m, with the fuel economy a claimed 5.1 L/100 km. It is priced at R516 950.
Suzuki Grand Vitara Hybrid: The Grand Vitara line-up comprises five models in South Africa, with the 1.5 Hybrid GLX AllGrip headlining it. Total system output is rated at 76 kW/137 N.m, and fuel economy at 5.6 L/100 km. The Grand Vitara Hybrid is priced at R542 900.
