Subcompact cars aren’t just for the smaller roads and more condensed cities in the European or Asian markets. They are great little cars even for those in the United States, from city-dwellers to those just needing a reliable vehicle that can get them from point A to point B. Two top options in that market are the 2019 Honda Fit and the 2019 Toyota Yaris, and we’re here to help you decide which one to park in your garage by comparing them side-by-side.
Though the entry level models are the most affordable, many drivers tend to buy trim levels closer to the middle of the lineup, so we’re going one up from the entry level model to specifically matchup the Fit Sport and the Yaris LE, as you can see from the table below. Either way, you’ll be able to seat up to 5 passengers, but if you want to carry cargo, the Fit clearly has an edge thanks to its hatchback design and fold-down rear seats that provide up to 52.7 cubic feet of cargo space. The Yaris does come in “Liftback” form but it only modestly improves the cargo situation.
Though subcompact cars aren’t exactly meant to be thrilling sports cars, the Fit does surprise with its 130-horsepower engine. The Yaris falls well short with only 106 horsepower. Now, with cars like these, some drivers may be OK with that, but you should also pay close attention to the transmission available in these models. The Yaris LE we’ve compared above only comes with a manual transmission, and if you want automatic, you’ll have to move up a whole trim level to find it available. In comparison, the Fit Sport has a 6-speed manual, as well, but it comes available with a CVT for those who prefer it.
The 2019 Honda Fit may have the edge in some key areas over the 2019 Toyota Yaris, but don’t just take our word for it. Stop by Hilton Head Honda to experience it for yourself.