2010 Honda Fit,Reviews

After a complete redesign last year, the 2010 Honda Fit stands pat. "Fit" spelled backwards is almost "tiff," and that's something the 2010 Honda Fit has never had -- a serious squabble with any of its rivals in the affordable compact hatchback segment. Inside is where the Fit really shines.

The 2010 Honda Fit technically does have some competition. The 2010 Honda Fit is a subcompact four-door hatchback available in two trim levels: base and Sport. The front-wheel-drive Honda Fit comes with a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 117 horsepower and 106 pound-feet of torque. On Fit Sports, the automatic comes with manual shift control via steering-wheel-mounted paddles. EPA fuel economy estimates stand at 27 mpg city/33 mpg highway and 29 mpg combined for all Fits with the manual transmission, while the Fit Sport equipped with the automatic is rated at 27/33/30. More conservative shift programming on base models fitted with the automatic yields a superior 28/35/31 rating.

Standard safety equipment for the 2010 Honda Fit includes antilock disc brakes, front seat side airbags, full-length side-curtain airbags and active front head restraints. Fit Sports can be equipped with a stability control system, but curiously, it is only available on models with the navigation system.

Driving Impressions Unlike other subcompacts, the 2010 Honda Fit is actually entertaining to drive. Going with the manual transmission takes full advantage of the Fit's engaging personality, though the Fit Sport's available automatic with shift paddles is a viable alternative. In ordinary driving, the Fit rides firmly, but there's a fair amount of road noise on the highway.

2010 Honda Element,Reviews

As it turned out, a lot of older people bought 2010 Honda Element. Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options The 2010 Honda Element is a compact crossover SUV available in three trim levels: LX, EX and SC. The Element LX and EX are available in both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations, while the sport-tuned SC is front-wheel drive only.

The base LX comes with 16-inch steel wheels, a urethane utility floor, moisture-resistant seats, folding and removable rear seats, a height-adjustable driver seat, air-conditioning, full power accessories, a tilt steering wheel, cruise control, keyless entry and a four-speaker CD audio system. Every 2010 Honda Element is equipped with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 166 horsepower and 161 pound-feet of torque.
Safety The Element comes standard with antilock disc brakes with brake assist, stability control, active front head restraints, front-seat side impact airbags and full-length side curtain airbags.

The 2010 Honda Element seats only four -- a disadvantage compared to other compact SUVs -- but rear passengers enjoy ample room and excellent visibility, thanks to the theater-style seating. Cargo capacity is also exceptional: With the rear seats removed, the Element can accommodate an impressive 75 cubic feet of gear. The Element's unique rear-hinged rear-seat access doors make side loading a snap, though their design can be a hassle for transporting people -- the front doors must first be opened before rear occupants are allowed in or out. Element owners who frequently transport a small-to-medium-sized dog should check out the new Dog Friendly kennel.

2010 Honda CR-V,Reviews

"It needs more power." This label has stuck to the 2010 Honda CR-V like industrial Velcro for as long as this compact crossover has been sold. The 2010 Honda CR-V's four-cylinder gets a welcome infusion of power, but a V6 option like so many of its competitors offer remains an unfulfilled desire. Safety? The backseat reclines and slides, while features like power heated seats, navigation and an iPod interface are options. Quality? Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options The 2010 Honda CR-V is a crossover SUV that straddles the line between compact and midsize. It is available in LX, EX, EX-L and EX-L with Navigation trim levels, and each can be equipped with front- or all-wheel drive.

The EX adds 17-inch alloy wheels, a sunroof, rear tinted glass, a dual-level cargo area, steering-wheel audio controls and a six-speaker stereo with six-CD changer. The EX-L adds automatic headlights, heated side mirrors, dual-zone automatic climate control, an eight-way power driver seat, leather upholstery, heated front seats, a fixed front center console and a seven-speaker stereo that includes a subwoofer, USB audio jack and satellite radio. Every 2010 Honda CR-V comes with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 180 hp and 161 pound-feet of torque.

A five-speed automatic and front-wheel drive are standard, while all-wheel drive is optional. AWD CR-Vs drop slightly to 21/27/23. Safety The 2010 Honda CR-V is equipped with antilock disc brakes, stability control, front side airbags and side curtain airbags. In government crash testing, the CR-V achieved a perfect five stars for side protection. The CR-V's cabin is both functional and attractive. With the split-level divider stowed and the rear seats folded, the CR-V can hold an impressive 73 cubic feet of cargo.