Fiat
500L
Honda
Fit
Fiat 500L vs Honda Fit: 2018 Comparison
Specs side by side
What owners say
500L
Overall
Owner sentiment is overwhelmingly negative, dominated by reports of persistent mechanical and electrical failures, poor reliability, and severe parts availability issues. A very small number of owners express satisfaction with the vehicle's practicality, fun driving character, and interior space, but these are isolated positive comments against a backdrop of widespread criticism. The vehicle is frequently described as a "Fix It Again Tony" due to recurring problems.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available. One isolated comment suggests the manual transmission is "more reliable than automatic," specifically citing the Dual Dry Clutch Transmission (DDCT) as problematic.
Known issues
- ⚠Transmission failures (DDCT): fluid leaks, complete failure requiring replacement, described as a "piece of shit." Concerns specifically cited for the 2014 model year. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Severe parts availability problems: parts on indefinite backorder (e.g., lower intercooler hose), leading to repair delays of 6+ months.
- ⚠Pervasive electrical issues: check engine lights for various sensors (ambient air temperature, knock sensor, evap leaks), faulty Body Control Modules (BCM) requiring solder repairs, complete electrical failure requiring battery replacement…
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.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Fiat 500L or the Honda Fit?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Fiat 500L and the Honda Fit. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Fiat 500L or the Honda Fit?
Data on family-specific factors like cargo space is limited for one or both models, but based on available reports, both are positioned as practical daily drivers. Check the specs table above for seating and body type.
Which has better fuel economy, the Fiat 500L or the Honda Fit?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Fiat 500L 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 500L. See the known issues comparison above.