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Facelift for Fit - but is it fit enough?

DETROIT, Michigan - Honda has lifted the wraps on the new Fit – Jazz in South Africa - at the 2014 Detroit auto show (13 January 2014).

Honda promises that the car will be faster, more efficient and more fun, with added interior space and better handling. John Mendel, vice-president of Honda US said: "It's a sub-compact with larger-than-life capabilities."

The car was eclipsed by the far-newer Chevrolet Sonic, Ford Fiesta  and Hyundai Accent
in sales but looks set to reclaim the lead when the 2014 version hits showrooms in the later this year.

Here are the highlights of the new Mexican-made car:

INSIDE: The Jazz has 139 litres of boot space with the back seats folded down — enough for two golf bags. Bluetooth and rear camera, soft-touch materials and leather-trimmed heatable seats.

OUTSIDE: The new model is 40mm shorter and slightly wider than the current. The front and rear wheels are 30mm farther apart for improved handling. Honda promises a sleek, modern design with a new grille and headlights larger tyres, rear reflectors and LED tail lights run along the hatch.

UNDER THE BONNET: New 1.5-litre, 97kW four-cylinder engine. That's 10kW more than the current model. A continuously variable automatic transmission will help the motor run at peak efficiency. There's also a six-speed manual transmission.

FUEL CONSUMPTION: Honda claims class-leading fuel economy of 5.7 litres/100km on the highway, 7.1litres/100km in the city and 6.5 litres/100km combined.

CHEERS: The new engine will rev lower at highway speeds to make the car quieter.




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