Honda's Updated Fit for China Resembles Toyota More than Honda | Carscoops

      Despite retaining some elements from the previous model, the updated GAC-Honda Fit is almost unrecognizable.

      The GAC-Honda joint venture is preparing to unveil a significantly facelifted version of the Fit in China.

      This subcompact car features a newly designed front end with a split headlight configuration.

      In China, the Fit will only be offered with a 1.5-liter gasoline engine.

      The Chinese automotive market often showcases unique interpretations of vehicles, frequently resulting in designs that differ greatly from their international versions. A prime example is the latest version of the Honda Fit (known as Jazz in some regions), which has made its initial appearance ahead of its official launch in China.

      What we are seeing is a refreshed model of the existing Fit, produced by the GAC-Honda partnership. Images from China's MIIT (Ministry of Industry and Information Technology) reveal a front end that has been so thoroughly revamped that it hardly resembles its predecessor. To be frank, the new design is reminiscent of the Toyota Yaris more than the Honda.

      Gone are the familiar, gentle curves of the earlier model, now replaced with a split LED headlight arrangement, imparting a more aggressive demeanor to the vehicle. The headlights are more slender and sharper than before, complemented by a newly designed lower bumper intake and a more sculpted front end. The side profile largely remains the same, though there is a minor enhancement at the rear with a plastic extension that gives the rear bumper a diffuser-like look.

      In terms of dimensions, the facelifted GAC-Honda Fit measures 4,196 mm (165.2 inches) in length, which is slightly longer than the previous model. It is unknown whether the Crosstar and Sport trims, which feature crossover-style cladding and sportier bumpers, will be available. Additionally, we have yet to see any interior images, so it is uncertain if the cabin will include a refreshed digital cockpit.

      The facelifted GAC-Honda Fit is shown alongside the Japanese-spec Fit in Base (left) and RS (right) trims.

      The current GAC-Honda Fit is displayed in Sport (left) and Crosstar (right) trims.

      Under the hood, the GAC-Honda Fit continues with the same naturally aspirated 1.5-liter iVTEC four-cylinder gasoline engine as before. This engine delivers 122 hp (91 kW / 124 PS), a slight increase of 6 hp (4 kW) compared to the Japanese version. Unlike the Japanese model, which offers a 4WD option, the Chinese Fit is FWD only, paired with a CVT transmission.

      The fourth generation of the Honda Jazz/Fit first launched in 2019 and underwent a mild facelift in 2022 for markets such as Japan and Europe. Though it has a minivan-like appearance, the Jazz/Fit remains a small hatchback at its core. Depending on the market, it can be equipped with either a traditional gasoline engine or a hybrid powertrain. The Fit shares its platform with the global Honda HR-V, though it is worth noting that the design of the HR-V varies by region.

      Additionally, the Dongfeng-Honda joint venture offers another Fit-related model in China, called the Life. This model distinguishes itself from the GAC-Honda Fit with a slightly different front bumper and a set of tinted taillights. The Dongfeng-Honda Life, which has been available since 2020, is also expected to receive a mid-cycle update soon, although its design will likely remain closer to the European and Japanese iterations.