SAFETY | 9 out of 10
Expert Quotes:
Five stars, frontal and side impacts; four stars, backseat side impact
NHTSA
Good," frontal offset, side, and rear impacts
IIHS
Electronic stability system will be optional, a rarity in this vehicle class
Cars.com
Something else that buyers are going to like is the even better view out
Car and Driver
The 2010 Honda Fit is one of the best small cars for occupant protection, achieving five stars for front occupants in both frontal and side-impact tests from the federal government (four stars for side-impact and backseat passengers), and top "good" ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) across the board. It was the only "minicar," as the IIHS designates it, to be named a 2009 Top Safety Pick from the group.
In addition to a resilient body structure, the 2009 Honda Fit offers a list of safety features that rivals that of any other car in its class. Edmunds reviewers say that "standard safety equipment for the 2009 Honda Fit includes antilock disc brakes, front seat side airbags," and "full-length side-curtain airbags." ConsumerGuide adds that "front-seat active head restraints" and a "tire-pressure monitor" come standard on all Honda Fit models. Reviews read by TheCarConnection.com show that an electronic stability control system is also available. However, most reviewers, like those at Jalopnik, are disappointed to find that "the only way to get stability control" is to spring for "an optional navigation system."
Outward visibility is much better in the Fit than in most other small cars, thanks to the nice, low beltline and extra front and rear quarter windows. ConsumerGuide notes the “rear headrests that retract flush with the tops of the seatbacks," and Jalopnik claims that "the Fit's outward visibility is amazing, obstructed laterally by only the narrowest of pillars."
Conclusion
The 2010 Honda Fit is almost certainly the safest car in its class; if stability control were standard, it would be a perfect 10.
