[drfranklin]

OK guys, first post here.

This fall I'm planning to buy a new car. I have narrowed it down to 2 cars (so far): the newly, redesigned 2009 Fit or the newly, redesigned 2009 Matrix. I also considered the Mazda 3, but ruled it out. I need help with the decision process.

Background: I have a L O N G work commute (highway). Currently have a 2007 Fit (purchased in April 2006, has 33k miles, paid off). It's been a very good car; but, I miss a few necessities: dead pedal, arm rest, map lights, properly working front windshield wipers (have tried everything to fix), INTERMITTENT rear wiper, reasonably large gas tank, XM radio integration (using the Fit's AUX input now). (Of course, some of these issues are addressed in the aftermarket, but I want a nice OEM look - besides I like a new car smell :p .) Also, the FIT feels a tad underpowered on the highway.

Requirements: Need excellent gas mileage. Strongly prefer a 4 door hatch (hate sedans). I don't need AWD (live in Upstate South Carolina). I need a hatch with a dead pedal (Mazda 3 strangely doesn't have one), arm rest, and XM integration (Mazda 3 only has Sirius). I strongly prefer a car with stability control (I plan to use the Fit as a second family car). As everyone knows, the current Fit's ride is very firm - this is especially brutal on my behind for a nearly hour long commute. I prefer a balanced ride (not too firm, not too soft). I don't care about navigation - portable navs are now much better than in dash navs (IMHO). Wishes: I would like a moonroof, bluetooth factory integration, and a little more horsepower.

Evaluation of the New Cars

2009 Honda Fit: most of the issues of the first gen Fit are addressed in the redesigned model. Has a dead pedal and arm rest. Stability control is available on the Sport model. Not sure about XM integration. Apparently, bluetooth is not available (even as an accessory according to College Hills Honda accessory preview) - I think this is a safety oversight by Honda. However, the USB port is a very nice touch (maybe first in its class). Not sure about the new rear wiper or the size of the gas tank. I hear that the ride is more compliant. The new instrument panel is wonderful - I think I even noticed a trip computer. There is no moonroof/skyroof. I expected (at least) a moonroof for the USDM on the sport model - but, alas, none was there. Also, I expected rear disc brakes for the sport model. Do ABS, EBD, and VSA work effectively on vehicles with drum brakes? I don't believe there is an exterior temp gauge - but not sure. The new body style is a nice evolution from the old. Like the paddle shifters.

2009 Matrix: on paper this car (S model) seems very good (with a few exceptions). This car has available XM integration, factory bluetooth, arm rest (albeit, hard as a rock), stability control, dead pedal, INTERMITTENT and CONTINUOUS rear wiper, moon roof, REAR DISC BRAKES, available 17 inch tires, and outside temp gauge. However, due to the larger engine (Camry's lazy, ubiquitous 2.4L), the Matrix gets worse gas mileage (21/29) than the Fit (I expect the new Fit will achieve the same mileage as the old, maybe a little more). Also, the new Matrix body style is a bit odd. The redesigned instrument panel and dash are a "sea" of hard plastic. The new, redesigned Fit has a more upscale IP and dash. But, there is no engine temp gauge on the new Fit's IP (Matrix has one). I believe the price of the "S" Matrix will be a bit higher than the Fit sport - not entirely sure, though. Has "sport shift", but no paddle shifters.

What would you choose as a daily commuter car?

Any other hatch models I should consider?

Sorry for the rambling, appreciate the help.