Fiat 500 vs Honda Fit
The short answer
Based on available data, the Honda Fit comes out ahead of the Fiat 500 on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
500
Overall
Sentiment is sharply divided and heavily dependent on vehicle age, mileage, and powertrain. The vehicle is consistently praised for its compact size, ease of parking, stylish design, and practicality as a second urban runabout. The 1.2L FIRE engine is specifically highlighted as a "fantastically reliable" and robust unit with good fuel economy.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a definitive "best" trim or version. Feedback suggests the manual transmission models are preferred to avoid the notorious automatic transmission issues.
Known issues
- Automatic transmission failures: Complete failure requiring replacement, harsh/jerky shifting when cold, inability to shift out of first gear, expensive repairs ($4,500+). Frequency: very frequent.
- Electrical system gremlins: Intermittent no-crank/no-start conditions, faulty clutch switch relays, blown fuses (F11), malfunctioning instrument clusters, trunk latches failing, headlights not turning off due to faulty Body Control Modules…
- Clutch and release bearing failure (Manual models): Squeaking/whining noise when depressed, requiring complete clutch kit and flywheel replacement. Frequency: recurrent.
Fit
Overall
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment centered on exceptional practicality, reliability, and low cost of ownership. The vehicle is consistently praised for its "magic seat" interior configuration, offering surprising cargo space and passenger room that rivals larger vehicles, all within a compact, easy-to-park footprint. Owners report high satisfaction with fuel economy (real-world reports of 36 MPG highway), simple and inexpensive maintenance, and a fun, tossable driving character, particularly with the manual transmission.
Best version to buy
Second Generation (late model, ~2009-2014): Specifically cited for its traditional Multi-Point Injection (MPI) engine and conventional automatic transmission ("Hondamatic"), which owners associate with extreme long-term reliability and simpler, cheaper maintenance. This generation is highlighted as having a drivetrain capable of lasting "half a million miles." The manual transmission variant (6-speed) is highly recommended across all generations for driving enjoyment and perceived durability.
Known issues
- CVT transmission concerns: Potential long-term reliability questions, especially if fluid service intervals are neglected; some reports of a "weird" feel compared to conventional automatics. Frequency: recurrent.
- Direct Injection (GDI) engine carbon buildup: Mentioned as a known issue for third-generation (2015+) models with Gasoline Direct Injection, requiring potential cleaning. Frequency: isolated.
- Firm/uncomfortable ride quality: Noted as harsh over bumps and potholes, with inadequate damping. Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Honda Fit is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Fiat 500, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Fiat 500 is worth a closer look instead.
Explore further
Other comparisons
Not sure which one fits you?
Answer a few questions and get a personalized recommendation.
Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Fiat 500 or the Honda Fit?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Fiat 500 and the Honda Fit. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Fiat 500 or the Honda Fit?
The Honda Fit seats more passengers than the Fiat 500 on its catalogued best-equipped version. Body type also differs: the Fiat 500 is classed as a Hatchback, the Honda Fit as a Hatchback.
Which has better fuel economy, the Fiat 500 or the Honda Fit?
The EPA rates the 2023 Fiat 500 at 26 mpg combined and the 2020 Honda Fit at 31–36 mpg, depending on the version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Fiat 500 or the Honda Fit?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Honda Fit than the Fiat 500. See the known issues comparison above.