With 34 MPG combined, the 2017 Honda Fit 1.5L is one of the most economical non-hybrid cars available. This is a key reason why people choose the Fit. This subcompact hatch is practical and affordable, designed for city driving, small families, and anyone who wants good fuel efficiency without losing cargo space. People accept the Fit’s quirks, like its sometimes buzzy engine and basic interior, because it saves them money at the pump.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2017 Honda Fit 1.5L will get 32 MPG in the city and 37 MPG on the highway. These are strong numbers that show the Fit’s lightweight design and efficient engine. The Fit shines in city driving; its small size and nimble handling make it easy to navigate busy streets, and the engine’s fuel efficiency helps avoid frequent trips to the gas station. The higher highway number shows that on extended trips, the FIT MPG across all years continues to provide great value.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Honda Fit at $1,300. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual costs may be different depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel you use (the Fit works well with regular unleaded). The $1,300 figure gives you a benchmark for understanding the Fit’s fuel economy compared to other vehicles, and it will likely be less than what you’re used to if you’re switching from a less efficient car.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates are a useful starting point, remember laboratory results aren’t always what you’ll see on the road. Driving style, traffic, and even tire pressure can affect your fuel economy. If you accelerate hard and brake often, your MPG will go down. Smooth, steady driving will help you get closer to the EPA estimates. Many owners report achieving MPG close to the EPA estimates, showing the accuracy of the testing. Colder weather and using accessories like air conditioning can slightly decrease fuel efficiency.

How it compares

In the subcompact class, the 2017 Honda Fit is a good choice compared to its competitors. For example, the 2017 Toyota Yaris iA (now the Mazda 2 sedan) gets an EPA-estimated 35 MPG combined. Their city mileage is similar, but the highway mileage is only 5 MPG different. The Chevy Sonic, another competitor, gets about 30 MPG combined, less than the Fit’s 34 MPG. The Nissan Versa Note, which is also in the same segment, gets around 31 MPG combined. For buyers focused on fuel costs, the Fit’s advantage, even if it seems small on paper, becomes important over the life of the vehicle. If you compare all Honda fuel economy data, you’ll see that only hybrids or much smaller vehicles get better numbers.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Accelerating gently from a stop improves fuel economy in the Fit. The 1.5L engine is small, so shift to the correct gear to get the most torque. Be careful not to be too aggressive when passing other cars on the highway, and always pay attention to the road.

Keeping your tires properly inflated is important. It improves fuel economy and extends the life of your tires and improves handling. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the PSI listed on the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb. This can lead to fuel savings.

Avoid unnecessary idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern cars can restart quickly, and idling wastes fuel. While it might seem small, those minutes of idling add up, especially in city driving. Shutting off the engine can save money and cause less gas to be used.

Plan your routes to avoid stop-and-go traffic. This type of traffic reduces fuel economy. Use navigation apps to find the best routes, particularly during rush hour. Planning can save time and money.