2009 Honda Fit Sport - Wrenchin'

Project Fit

Staff ReportWriter
Apr 1, 2009

Now What Do We Do?
Somebody over at American Honda thought it would be smart for us to have an '09 Fit Sport of our own. It wasn't a bad idea. We love the Fit, and have been looking for ways to incorporate both the GD3 and GE8 chassis into the mag for some time. It's no secret that we've compared the Fit to the likes of Honda's timeless '88-'91 Civic on more than one occasion and we're standing by it. Like the Civic, it's Honda's entry-level hatchback and, like the Civic, the Fit is aimed toward the same demographic. They're both reasonably fun to drive, get great mileage, and just as easy to upgrade. Here's why we like it so much.

Under The Hood
While awaiting our Blue Sensation Pearl Fit to arrive, we began planning what we'd do to wake it up. A K-series swap seemed logical. At the time, nobody had done one yet, and it'd certainly give us the power we wanted. But the swap may not be entirely necessary. The '09 does make an extra 8 hp when compared to the previous model and its torque curve is much flatter, but that's not exactly earth-shattering. Combine those things with a tighter gearbox, and a more intuitive electric power steering and suspension though and, suddenly, it accounts for a lot. About that gearbox, compare it with the Fit's competition; this is the smoothest-shifting gearbox you'll find in a car priced below $20K. It doesn't just put the competition in check but it does so with our NSX and just about any B-series we've got and for good reason-it's 20 years newer. Part of the reason for this is the manual transmission's carbon and double-cone synchros. Single-cone synchros that are made of brass are more typical for budget-minded cars like the Fit, but they'll never shift as smoothly. Glance under the hood though and you'll have a difficult time seeing the differences. Both old and new Fits feature 1.5-liter powerplants but the '09's is better. Sort of. In terms of VTEC, the '09 wins. It's i-VTEC is the sort of technology we've come to expect from Honda's best. Unlike the previous Fit's VTEC, which does little more than deactivate one intake valve per cylinder to increase torque below 3,400 rpm, the '09's two-stage i-VTEC system optimizes valve timing and lift across the board, similar to the K-series, but only on the intake side. That means a reasonable amount of power is there when you stab the throttle, and decent mileage isn't terribly hard to get. Don't expect a neck-snapping pop though; the Fit's i-VTEC is quiet, even subtle. To be fair, the EPA estimated fuel economy ratings for the '09 Fit Sport of 27 mpg city / 33 mpg highway are simply way too low. In testing we've achieved 42 mpg while doing our best to conserve and a solid 37 mpg the rest of the time. Not interested in a hybrid? You don't have to be anymore.

Outside And Inside
We're not interested in messing with too many exterior modifications. We daily drive the Fit and so it must fulfill certain duties like not attracting too much attention and getting decent gas mileage. The Fit Sport works out perfect for guys like us. Besides the 16-inch rims that's we'll soon be swapping out, it comes with all sorts of things that we won't be getting rid of. There're the color-matched side mirrors, as well as the more aggressive-looking bumpers, rear spoiler, and side sills. The Sport also comes with factory-installed fog lights, chrome headlight bezels, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel-all things we won't be getting rid of, especially since our Sport's steering wheel has integrated stereo controls on it to go along with its six-speaker sound system. We also opted for the Navi model that, you guessed it, comes with Honda's navigation system and is arguably one of the industry's best. Navi models are about $1,800 more than non-Navi models, but are worth every penny. Few cars in this price range are equipped with such technology. There're even USB audio and iPod hook-ups, MP3 compatibility, and a factory-installed, keyless entry security system. The Sport really does make our ob of vehicle modification an easy one.

We Want To Hear From You
Well, we've played around with our Fit in stock form for long enough. Now it's time to modify this thing, but we want to hear from you. What do you want to see? Have a certain set of rims in mind? Let us know. Got an idea of some engine mods you'd like to see tested here first? Hit us up. Of course, we've got a few of our own ideas in mind, but we want to hear what other Fit aficionados want to see. Send your suggestions to editorial@hondatuningmagazine.com and be sure to include "PROJECT FIT" in the subject line.


By Savvy

 

| HOW-TO - CHASSIS AND SUSPENSION

2009 Honda Fit - Wrenchin'

Wheels, Tires, And Suspension

Staff ReportWriterHenry DeKuyperPhotographerAaron BonkPhotographer
Jun 1, 2009[img]data:image/svg+xml,%3csvg fill='none' height='24' viewBox='0 0 24 24' width='24' xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%3e%3cpath clip-rule='evenodd' d='m8 2h12c1.1 0 2 .9 2 2v12c0 1.1-.9 2-2 2h-12c-1.1 0-2-.9-2-2v-12c0-1.1.9-2 2-2zm12 14v-12h-12v12zm-8.5-4.33 1.69 2.26 2.48-3.1 3.33 4.17h-10zm-9.5 8.33v-14h2v14h14v2h-14c-1.1 0-2-.9-2-2z' fill='%23fff' fill-rule='evenodd'/%3e%3c/svg%3e[/img]SEE ALL 25 PHOTOSWe added 10mm Project Kics wheel spacers out back to bring the Falken tires just past the fender line. The GE8's rear wheels naturally tuck in more than the fronts, so a spacer or reduced offset out back is the only way to even things up. Spacers make more sense here and will allow us to rotate the Fit's tires since offset is equal all around. The Project Kicks wheel spacers feature integrated studs, which means you can add 10mm or more without having to worry about running out of threads.Project Fit
Two months ago, we asked you what you thought about Project Fit. Aside from the two guys who want to see a V-6 squashed underneath the GE8's hood, the responses were fairly predictable: lower it, put some wheels on it, and make it faster. As much fun as a big, fat J35A would be, it just isn't practical at this point. No, we're going to push the 1.5-liter engine's limits. Sure, the whole thing could end with a neat little window positioned in the side of the block, but nobody will be able to say we didn't try.

But before we start fiddling with the engine, we've got to address the exterior. The '09 Fit is wider and longer than the previous model and its wheelbase and track is extended. It also doesn't handle any better and its gawky stance doesn't do much for aesthetics. The solution is simple, solves both the aesthetic and the handling issues, and involves nothing more than a set of adjustable coilovers paired with properly sized rims and tires. We turned to Function Form for a set of its 32-way Type II adjustable coilovers. Function Form is hot right now, so if you haven't heard of them, you best step out of your cave. The company manufactures high-quality, double-adjustable coilovers for most popular Honda applications and, apparently, for unpopular Honda applications like the GE8 Fit. But that'll all change soon. Although the Fit's in-crowd status will no doubt escalate, as expected, hard parts like coilovers are at a premium at the moment.
[img]data:image/svg+xml,%3csvg fill='none' height='24' viewBox='0 0 24 24' width='24' xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%3e%3cpath clip-rule='evenodd' d='m8 2h12c1.1 0 2 .9 2 2v12c0 1.1-.9 2-2 2h-12c-1.1 0-2-.9-2-2v-12c0-1.1.9-2 2-2zm12 14v-12h-12v12zm-8.5-4.33 1.69 2.26 2.48-3.1 3.33 4.17h-10zm-9.5 8.33v-14h2v14h14v2h-14c-1.1 0-2-.9-2-2z' fill='%23fff' fill-rule='evenodd'/%3e%3c/svg%3e[/img]SEE ALL 25 PHOTOSThe Rays Gram Lights 57 Optimise wheel is offered in a number of sizes, including the 15x6.5, +38 offset we fitted to the Fit. The slightly aggressive offset surprisingly doesn't rub and provides even more clearance between the tires and suspension than the factory wheels do.You can't lower a chassis like the Fit without proper wheel and tire fitment. Well, you can, but it won't do much for good looks. Project Fit's wheel choice had to meet several criteria: they had to look good, they had to be light, they had to fit properly in terms of width and offset, and they had to be unique. Although the Fit Sport is outfitted from the factory with 16-inch alloys, we opted for 15x6.5 Rays Gram Lights 57 Optimise that feature a +38 offset paired with Falken Azenis tires sized at 205/50-15. While some may consider such wheel and tire downsizing on par with sacrilege, consider the reduced offset and increased drop that's possible in such cases. Because of the wheel and tire's decreased overall diameter, offset can be reduced to as little as +30 without any rubbing. You can't say the same for a 16x7-inch wheel. Bolting it all on is the easy part.
[img]data:image/svg+xml,%3csvg fill='none' height='24' viewBox='0 0 24 24' width='24' xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%3e%3cpath clip-rule='evenodd' d='m8 2h12c1.1 0 2 .9 2 2v12c0 1.1-.9 2-2 2h-12c-1.1 0-2-.9-2-2v-12c0-1.1.9-2 2-2zm12 14v-12h-12v12zm-8.5-4.33 1.69 2.26 2.48-3.1 3.33 4.17h-10zm-9.5 8.33v-14h2v14h14v2h-14c-1.1 0-2-.9-2-2z' fill='%23fff' fill-rule='evenodd'/%3e%3c/svg%3e[/img]SEE ALL 25 PHOTOSFunction Form's Type II coilovers feature 32 positions of dampening adjustability and everything you need for a complete install.You Said
"Your Fit would look so badass with a set of Equips tucked into the wheel wells...with a healthy offset." --Elgin Zeiber

"I support fitting your GD3 with some Mugen accessories such as ventilated window visors and a spoiler."--Joseph Hallberg

"It could use suspension tweaks to flatten out in the corners."--Ted Moores
[img]data:image/svg+xml,%3csvg fill='none' height='24' viewBox='0 0 24 24' width='24' xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%3e%3cpath clip-rule='evenodd' d='m8 2h12c1.1 0 2 .9 2 2v12c0 1.1-.9 2-2 2h-12c-1.1 0-2-.9-2-2v-12c0-1.1.9-2 2-2zm12 14v-12h-12v12zm-8.5-4.33 1.69 2.26 2.48-3.1 3.33 4.17h-10zm-9.5 8.33v-14h2v14h14v2h-14c-1.1 0-2-.9-2-2z' fill='%23fff' fill-rule='evenodd'/%3e%3c/svg%3e[/img]SEE ALL 25 PHOTOSBefore removing anything else, position a jack beneath the lower ball joint. This will keep the suspension from drooping too far, which can lead to a damaged CV joint."A swap is probably the best way to motivate this hatch. It would be nice to see a well thought out turbo build."--Tim Ryan

"If you guys could keep the 1.5-liter engine, that would be great."--Shawn B.

"I think a K-series swap would be tight, but a V-6 swap would be serious." --Kyle Mitchell

Raise the jack and push the two strut-mounting bolts into place. If your ride height is set, fasten the brake line and ABS wire into the provided brackets using the original hardware.

 

Project Honda Fit - Wrenchin'

Looking For Power...Anywhere We Can Find It

Phi PhungWriter
Jul 1, 2009

[img]data:image/svg+xml,%3csvg fill='none' height='24' viewBox='0 0 24 24' width='24' xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%3e%3cpath clip-rule='evenodd' d='m8 2h12c1.1 0 2 .9 2 2v12c0 1.1-.9 2-2 2h-12c-1.1 0-2-.9-2-2v-12c0-1.1.9-2 2-2zm12 14v-12h-12v12zm-8.5-4.33 1.69 2.26 2.48-3.1 3.33 4.17h-10zm-9.5 8.33v-14h2v14h14v2h-14c-1.1 0-2-.9-2-2z' fill='%23fff' fill-rule='evenodd'/%3e%3c/svg%3e[/img]SEE ALL 4 PHOTOSHonda's Fit-it isn't the enthusiast's performance dream car come true. But Honda fans have long taken cars perceived to have little dream value and extracted big things out of them. Of course, this almost always begins with the exhaust system, which is perhaps the most basic of all performance upgrades. Also earning a reputation for standard bolt-on fare, electrical ground strap kits have earned street cred in their own right. And while exhausts and grounding kits may not seem like they belong in the same sentence, they've both become target mods for new enthusiasts if for nothing more than their aesthetic values. The best part is that they provide honest performance gains.

Easy Breathing
Replacing the factory exhaust system is perhaps the most primitive of vehicle modifications. From high-end supercars to ghetto beaters, there is a high-performance exhaust for almost every car. But many who bolt on such systems never really understand what it is they're gaining and how those gains are obtained. To be sure, imagine that your engine is an air pump. It ingests air and fuel and exhales the used exhaust gases through the exhaust system, which includes the exhaust manifold or header, the catalytic converter, the exhaust piping, and the muffler. A free-flowing exhaust system simply allows all of this to happen more efficiently. However, Honda exhaust systems-and its vehicles for that matter-are designed for the masses, not for power-hungry enthusiasts. Quiet is better than loud; less emissions is better than more. The results often create a bottleneck, which impedes proper airflow. As a result, a high-flow exhaust system such as HKS' Hi-Power Fit exhaust doesn't just sound better, it actually makes a bit more power.

Ground Game
Electrical grounding kits like HKS' Circle Earth kit are a bit of a mystery, but they needn't be. Simply imagine your car's grounding system, and then improve upon it by adding several more grounding points. The results decrease electrical noise and can even smooth out an older car's idle and produce more power through a stronger spark.

The Install
Installing HKS' muffler onto the '09 Fit is easy-it is, after all, a muffler and not a cat-back system. With the stock exhaust removed, the HKS Hi-Power unit is fitted into place using the original hardware. But the Circle Earth grounding kit requires a bit more work. First, you must take into account the vehicle's components that potentially create the most electrical noise-like the distributor found on older Hondas or the alternator. But newer Hondas like the Fit feature a direct-fire ignition system instead of a distributor, which alleviates most of that noise to begin with. Ground straps can be distributed from the main unit to the valve cover, the alternator, and the body. Arbitrary points like the transmission body, cylinder head, fuel rail, and intake manifold are also good locations. HKS' kit includes plenty of wire, so be sure to leave enough slack for engine and drivetrain movement

The Test
For testing, we sent the Fit off to JDM Concepts in nearby Oceanside, California, where it was strapped to the Dynojet. Baseline runs using the OEM exhaust system were made and subsequent runs testing the exhaust and grounding system were made in 30-minute intervals to allow adequate time for cooling and to avoid heat-soaking.

The Results
HKS's Hi-Power exhaust system increased power by 2 hp throughout the powerband, and although the Circle Earth kit increased power slightly, actual gains are minimal on such newer vehicles. While 2 hp may not sound like much, keep in mind that such parts are prerequisites to the big picture. Pairing the Hi-Power exhaust and Circle Earth grounding kit with an intake system or an ECU re-flash will only realize larger gains and help contribute to the total tuning solution.

 

2009 Honda Fit - Wrenchin'

Our Ge Hits The Scales In Search Of Better Handling

RodrezWriter
Aug 1, 2009

[img]data:image/svg+xml,%3csvg fill='none' height='24' viewBox='0 0 24 24' width='24' xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%3e%3cpath clip-rule='evenodd' d='m8 2h12c1.1 0 2 .9 2 2v12c0 1.1-.9 2-2 2h-12c-1.1 0-2-.9-2-2v-12c0-1.1.9-2 2-2zm12 14v-12h-12v12zm-8.5-4.33 1.69 2.26 2.48-3.1 3.33 4.17h-10zm-9.5 8.33v-14h2v14h14v2h-14c-1.1 0-2-.9-2-2z' fill='%23fff' fill-rule='evenodd'/%3e%3c/svg%3e[/img]SEE ALL 10 PHOTOSProject Fit
In the previous installments of Project Fit, we installed a set of Function Form coilovers along with a set of slightly smaller 15-inch wheels and tires. Though the car handled better after the stiffer suspension and lower center of gravity, we scoured the web for any possible upgrades in the suspension department for our little '09. As with most new cars, the aftermarket isn't exactly beating down our door with options. One idea that came to mind was a corner balancing session. For those that are new to the term, corner balancing is a sometimes lengthy process that involves adjusting the weight carried by each wheel in an attempt to find improved balance. A proper balance will often give a car the ability to handle much better; one of our main goals for the project. Let's face it: short of swapping out the motor, this car is not going to be a screamer. Why not focus on something that all cars can benefit from; superior handling.

Most Honda builders look toward lowering the car as the single most important aspect of a build. Not only is it important in changing a car's handling characteristics, but also because it eliminates that unsightly 4x4 stance. We all know that dropping your Civic to the ground isn't the smartest move, especially if you want to avoid doing twelve point turns in your neighborhood. This is nothing new as it's been pounded into our heads for years. One aspect we seem to overlook when it comes to the suspension puzzle is a good balance. Analyzing a vehicle in diagonal terms (right front wheel, left rear wheel for example), if one wheel is carrying too much weight, the handling will in fact suffer. Imagine if your car had three stiff spring rates, and one OEM spring, you'd realize the imbalance almost immediately. You'll probably never run into anything that extreme, but diagonal imbalances are common, and can be corrected through spring height adjustments and corner balancing. You might be asking yourself, "why not just relocate the battery or move something else around until you find a better balance?" That might help, but it would never equal the precision you'll find from weight distribution via spring height changes. Keep in mind, if there's too much weight in one corner, there's also too much weight in the opposite corner. For example, if you lower the left rear corner of the car, that wheel, along with the right front corner (think diagonally) will then rely on the other two wheels to carry more of the car's weight. You haven't taken weight away from the car; you've simply transferred some of it to the other wheels.


[img]data:image/svg+xml,%3csvg fill='none' height='24' viewBox='0 0 24 24' width='24' xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%3e%3cpath clip-rule='evenodd' d='m8 2h12c1.1 0 2 .9 2 2v12c0 1.1-.9 2-2 2h-12c-1.1 0-2-.9-2-2v-12c0-1.1.9-2 2-2zm12 14v-12h-12v12zm-8.5-4.33 1.69 2.26 2.48-3.1 3.33 4.17h-10zm-9.5 8.33v-14h2v14h14v2h-14c-1.1 0-2-.9-2-2z' fill='%23fff' fill-rule='evenodd'/%3e%3c/svg%3e[/img]SEE ALL 10 PHOTOSUpon arrival, the crew immediately placed the Fit onto a standard lift, and positioned the scales under each tire. The scales relay information to the main unit's display, and adjustments are made accordingly. Our Fit weighed in at 2,456 lbs with a little less than half a tank of gas.
I did have some reserves about attempting to corner balance the Fit as I assumed only hardcore track cars with high dollar suspension set-ups would benefit from the process. Beyond that, I had no idea how much the whole thing would cost, and didn't want to commit to something that was out of the budget for the average tuner. However, after speaking to Loi Song of Sportcar Motion in San Marcos, CA, my theory was quickly shot down. Loi states "corner balancing is one of the most important factors of proper handling. It really doesn't matter if it's a street car, or a track car. You can take any car with adjustable coilovers and improve on it by just taking the time to get your weight distribution corrected." After being assured that the process wouldn't cost an arm and a leg, I set out to pay a visit to Sportcar Motion, and kept my fingers crossed in hopes that the changes would pay off. With a few front-wheel drive Honda records under their belt, I was confident they'd pull something out of our car.

The Road Test
Once Loi and his crew finished the corner balance process, tire pressure and lug nuts were double checked, and I was on my way out of the shop. Just a few miles from Sportcar Motion lies a twisty two lane stretch of pavement peppered with tight back-to-back turns. We took the Fit for a quick sprint to compare the before and after. Upon the first turn, the results were painfully obvious. This was exactly what we were missing after lowering the car. It felt more nimble from the very moment the little four-door was pushed hard. The increased feeling of grip and overall silky transitions meant higher entry speeds and smoother exits. The "dive" that the Fit seemed to exhibit when entering a turn has been scaled back tremendously. Because we were still on a public road, we didn't get too gutsy, as the street is not the place to take chances. But before getting a weekend track day with the Fit, there are a couple of items that would make the day a bit more interesting; rear disc brakes and a driver side bucket seat. The seating position is far too high, and under harsh driving conditions, seems to sap driver confidence. There are plenty of aftermarket bucket seats we could opt for, though seat brackets and sliders may not be an option for the 2009 model.
Loi records the weight distribution produced by the Fit at all 4 corners as it rolled into the shop. This serves as a basis for all changes during the process.
The Numbers
Sportcar Motion recommended a 60 front, 40 rear weight distribution for our car. After bringing the car up slightly, we managed to reach a 63.2 front, and 36.8 rear weight distribution.

Front: 823 786 (front weight 1609 w/driver) Rear: 538 479 (rear weight 1017)

The difference in handling was a slap in the face. Corner balancing is exactly what the Fit needed, and there's no question it will be our first stop after installing coilovers on our next project. The process took approximately 90minutes, with a price tag just over $200. One of the best upgrades we've done so far, and it didn't wreak havoc on our bank account.

 

Honda Fit - Wrenchin'

A Little Flair, A Little Power, And A Lot Of Searching

RodrezWriter
Sep 1, 2009


First, Let's Review
In the first few installments of our Project Fit series, we aimed a covering the basics. Ninety-nine percent of Fit buyers interested in modifying their cars will usually start with lowering and wheels. We addressed this with a set of Function Form coilovers and Gram Light rollers wrapped in Falken Azenis tires. Next, we added an HKS axle-back exhaust, earthing kit, and recently hit the scales for a proper corner balancing session with Sportcar Motion. All of the mods we've done so far are very basic, affordable, and aside from the corner balancing, can be performed by any average Joe in his garage or driveway.



High Carb Diet
After searching high and low for a carbon fiber hood for the GE, we were ready to throw in the towel. But after coming across JDP Engineering's website, we knew we were on to something. If the name sounds familiar, you might have seen their sleek carbon fiber front lip for DA Integras a few years ago. It was subtle, well built, and fit like a glove. We contacted John at JDP and he explained to us that he'd already finished the prototype for his new GE Fit front lip, along with a radiator shroud and rearview mirror cap. Everything arrived within a week, and we couldn't wait to check the overall fit and finish. The process of installation took approximately 45minutes to complete.Stepping Away From The Crowd.....QuietlyOn average, we see more Honda Fits on the road than RSXs or Civics; they're everywhere! We wanted to add just a touch of flair to the exterior in an attempt to separate ourselves from the other clones on the road. However, we're going for subtle changes that won't attract the wrong type of attention. A set of red "H" emblems intended for the JDM EP CTR (front), and JDM ITR (rear) took the place of our factory plastic chrome units. Take note, the posts on the back of the emblems don't line up with the U.S. chassis. We snipped the posts off with a set of small shears, and the supplied double sided tape is more than enough to hold the featherweight badges on securely. Additionally, we picked up a JDM 1.3L "red dot" FIT emblem to compliment the other red bits. In order to remove the old emblems without breaking or scratching our nifty Blue Sensation Pearl paint, we sourced a nylon pry and wedge kit through Graham Tool Company. The wedge gave us enough leverage to remove the emblems, without gouging the cars finish, and we actually kept the stock units in one piece. This is one of those "must have" items for your toolbox that you're probably missing right now.




Slide the Zeta console into the rear cup holder, and use the supplied (longer) screw to lock the new armrest into place. That's all there is to it. You'll find it much more convenient than stuffing everything you have into the glove box or cup holders.

 

Project 2009 Honda Fit - Wrenchin'

Faster, Stiffer, And A Little More Handsome. HFP, Kraftwerks, And Ultra Racing Step Up To Support The GE

[img]data:image/svg+xml,%3csvg fill='none' height='24' viewBox='0 0 24 24' width='24' xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%3e%3cpath clip-rule='evenodd' d='m8 2h12c1.1 0 2 .9 2 2v12c0 1.1-.9 2-2 2h-12c-1.1 0-2-.9-2-2v-12c0-1.1.9-2 2-2zm12 14v-12h-12v12zm-8.5-4.33 1.69 2.26 2.48-3.1 3.33 4.17h-10zm-9.5 8.33v-14h2v14h14v2h-14c-1.1 0-2-.9-2-2z' fill='%23fff' fill-rule='evenodd'/%3e%3c/svg%3e[/img]SEE ALL 13 PHOTOSRodrez Writer
Oct 1, 2009
Suspension, Appearance, And Results
Our project Fit has come a long way. In the beginning, we could barely scrounge up a set of coilovers since no one was jumping in to make new parts for the '09 GE. In fact, when the car was handed over to me, it had nothing more than a set of coilovers, HKS axle back muffler, and set of Gram Lights. A great beginning, but there wasn't very much aftermarket support for the '09 GE. Being the internet nerd that I am, I searched high and low, looking for anything to add to the list of upgrades. Eventually I ran across a cold-air intake from Takeda for a little more power, and some beautiful carbon fiber pieces from JDP Engineering. It's been a long hunt, but I've managed to dig up a few more items to bolt on.

Honda Factory Performance And Mugen
One cool thing about the '09 Fit is that it has some optional equipment available through HFP. I'm not just talking about gold license plate frames, dash mats, and key chains at your local dealer. No, I'm referring to genuine Mugen parts. That's right, from a Mugen oil cap, to a full body kit; you can order a number of items. We were lucky enough to get our hands on a Mugen grill, floor mats, and oil cap. By far, the front grill makes the biggest impact. It comes pre-painted to match your Fit's exterior, includes the infamous Mugen badge, and features a border that really changes the look of the front end. It installs in less than ten minutes, and you can do it on your own. Check it out...

Stiff Stuff From Ultra Racing
I searched every corner of the web in search up suspension stiffening upgrades with no luck at all. I remembered seeing a catalog from Ultra Racing, and it seemed like they made a set of bars for every car in existence. After contacting them, it turns out that many of the bars they made for the '08 Jazz would work with the '09 U.S. Fit. The Ultra Racing crew shipped me a pile of bars to install on our project car. I got the car on a lift, and this is what I ended up with...


[img]data:image/svg+xml,%3csvg fill='none' height='24' viewBox='0 0 24 24' width='24' xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%3e%3cpath clip-rule='evenodd' d='m8 2h12c1.1 0 2 .9 2 2v12c0 1.1-.9 2-2 2h-12c-1.1 0-2-.9-2-2v-12c0-1.1.9-2 2-2zm12 14v-12h-12v12zm-8.5-4.33 1.69 2.26 2.48-3.1 3.33 4.17h-10zm-9.5 8.33v-14h2v14h14v2h-14c-1.1 0-2-.9-2-2z' fill='%23fff' fill-rule='evenodd'/%3e%3c/svg%3e[/img]SEE ALL 13 PHOTOSThe Original Fit Grill Fitted With A JDM CTR Emblem
The Mugen grill as compared to the OEM version. Check out the thick border that runs along the bottom of the grill, and the smooth center that replaces the honeycomb plastic.

The additional rigidity could be felt in the Fit as soon as I pulled out of the garage. The chassis felt much more solid and the little GE had no problems being pushed harder than ever through the local back roads. With a bucket seat and a much lower seating position, this could car would be a blast on a short road course. The tighter the turns, the better it will perform.

Paying A Visit To The Godfather
When I attended the Kraftwerks Honda Fit dyno day a few months ago, I heard Oscar Jackson talking about a breakthrough that he'd come across with the Fit motor. Apparently Honda chose a spark plug that protrudes into the head enough to create a power-robbing hot spot. Oscar had tracked down a much better option for the older model Fit, and initial testing on a boosted version produced eight horsepower. I asked O.J. if we might see any increase in power with a naturally aspirated '09 model. His answer, "there's only one way to find out." This would be a perfect opportunity to test our cold air intake, as well as Oscar's theory.

It was brutally hot the day I arrived at the Kraftwerks dyno. The kind of hot that makes you wish you'd stayed at home, soaking in a tub filled with ice, eating a chocolate frosty. Not one to ever back down from a dyno session, Oscar braved the heat and got the dyno session started as soon as I arrived. I had installed the factory air box back in the car to get a baseline. Horsepower peaked around 102. Trading out the stock filter for the Takeda cold-air unit earned us a bit more peak horsepower, but more importantly, provided a nice useable kick in the midrange, where the car spends the majority of its time. This is far more important than a peak number when dealing with a street car.

The Spark Plug Theory
If anyone else had told me I might pick up a few horsepower with a different set of plugs, I would have probably laughed and moved on. But I've learned not to doubt Oscar Jackson very often, as he has a funny way of delivering on every claim he makes. Since changing the plugs on a GE was a first for him, as well as me, we started pulling parts out of the bay until we found the proper route.

[img]data:image/svg+xml,%3csvg fill='none' height='24' viewBox='0 0 24 24' width='24' xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%3e%3cpath clip-rule='evenodd' d='m8 2h12c1.1 0 2 .9 2 2v12c0 1.1-.9 2-2 2h-12c-1.1 0-2-.9-2-2v-12c0-1.1.9-2 2-2zm12 14v-12h-12v12zm-8.5-4.33 1.69 2.26 2.48-3.1 3.33 4.17h-10zm-9.5 8.33v-14h2v14h14v2h-14c-1.1 0-2-.9-2-2z' fill='%23fff' fill-rule='evenodd'/%3e%3c/svg%3e[/img]SEE ALL 13 PHOTOSThis middle underbody bar features a slight bend to get around the path of the exhaust system.With the new plugs installed, Oscar let the car get hot at idle. That's not a mistake, he let it get really hot. Instead of trying to cheat the dyno by running the car much cooler, or covering the intake manifold with cold towels, he prefers a real world test. He states "I could run the car right away, before it gets really hot and probably pull a better number, but what good is that? In the real world, your car gets hot, REALLY hot. Why not measure something realistic?" After a few pulls, the average number is 104.5 at peak. It might not sound like much, but think about the motor we're dealing with. His theory proves that for the price of a set of spark plugs, you can make as much power as an exhaust or an intake on your Fit. People like Oscar Jackson are what keep our industry moving. No one else is willing to do the tedious research, while he relishes in it. Kraftwerks has these in stock, and they're just a phone call away.

[img]data:image/svg+xml,%3csvg fill='none' height='24' viewBox='0 0 24 24' width='24' xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%3e%3cpath clip-rule='evenodd' d='m8 2h12c1.1 0 2 .9 2 2v12c0 1.1-.9 2-2 2h-12c-1.1 0-2-.9-2-2v-12c0-1.1.9-2 2-2zm12 14v-12h-12v12zm-8.5-4.33 1.69 2.26 2.48-3.1 3.33 4.17h-10zm-9.5 8.33v-14h2v14h14v2h-14c-1.1 0-2-.9-2-2z' fill='%23fff' fill-rule='evenodd'/%3e%3c/svg%3e[/img]SEE ALL 13 PHOTOSA room bar ties both sides of the car together for added rigidity. Note the slick Mugen floor mats provided by Honda Factory Performance.
Thank you to all of the sponsors that have taken part in Project Fit in 2009: Function Form, HKS, JDP Engineering, HFP, Zeta Products, H-Fit, Takeda, Kraftwerks and Oscar Jackson, Circuit Hero, Mackin Industries, Ultra Racing.

 

GE Honda Fit - J's Racing Fit

GE is go!

[img]data:image/svg+xml,%3csvg fill='none' height='24' viewBox='0 0 24 24' width='24' xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%3e%3cpath clip-rule='evenodd' d='m8 2h12c1.1 0 2 .9 2 2v12c0 1.1-.9 2-2 2h-12c-1.1 0-2-.9-2-2v-12c0-1.1.9-2 2-2zm12 14v-12h-12v12zm-8.5-4.33 1.69 2.26 2.48-3.1 3.33 4.17h-10zm-9.5 8.33v-14h2v14h14v2h-14c-1.1 0-2-.9-2-2z' fill='%23fff' fill-rule='evenodd'/%3e%3c/svg%3e[/img]SEE ALL 16 PHOTOSHenry Z. De KuyperLuke Munnell Writer
Oct 12, 2010

In terms of performance, there are some cars we love for obvious reasons (NSX, Skyline GT-R, Lancer EVO), others we love for their hidden potential (EG/EK Civic, 240SX, Impreza), and those we simply get stuck with and make the best of. Sure, four doors, a hatch, and seats that fold down a gazillion different ways to allow the transport of an entire apartment-sized Ikea furnishing scheme are definite benefits for a lot of us. As is a $15K sticker price and 31mpg fuel efficiency (which, factoring in current gas prices, could save as much as $75K over a 100K-mile vehicle lifetime compared to a GT-R; $20K compared to that EVO). But lets face it-with a 117hp/106lb-ft 1.5L inline-four, McPherson/torsion beam suspension, and top-heavy(ish) design, the Fit would fall into the latter category for many of us.

Does getting stuck with such an economical, practical commuter have to be the end of your performance dreams? Fifteen years ago, those who shelled out comparable cash for a new Civic hatch with nearly identical specs wondered the same, but today we're seeing them run eight-second quarter miles or take out NSXs, GT-Rs and EVOs around the circuit. Being a product of Honda's brand reinvention in 2001 gives the Fit some interchangeability with K-laden Honda/Acura platforms, but is going all-out on a K20/24 swap your only hope? Tuners in Japan would argue different.

See that "Racing Goes On" lettering just above the J's logo and slogan? It's possibly the most time-worthy motto for a performance tuner to have. It's been relevant to J's since the company changed the game with their launch in 1988, then when they moved from the EF platform to J's-equipped EGs and DC2s, then to their infamous S2000 and Civic Type R, and finally onto their first Fit on which, coincidentally, they did go all-out: K24 swap, stripped/caged interior, full aero package, and 1:00.459 lap times at Tsukuba in 2008. Today, with the world's industrial populations increasing and energy supplies lagging-and the world's disposable income at record lows-the priorities of today's new car buyers and enthusiasts alike are shifting from performance and luxury to economy and practicality, and the J's motif is more relevant than ever.

Let's be real: The Fit is not a sports car. We'd be surprised if even one of our millions (sic) of readers recreates the J's Racing GD (first-generation) Fit. Most would be happy simply elevating the performance of their cars enough to knock down the egos of rival import drivers. This mentality is so popular in Japan that it's given rise to several racing series for lightly modded B-segment cars that maximize the potential of their original designs. The rules are usually very basic: engines displacement and aspiration can't be modified, and cars' interiors and exteriors must remain largely faithful to stock. After that, it's pretty much fair game.


J's new GE (second-generation) Fit retains its native front-wheel-drive 1.5L inline-four (a 1.3L engine is also an option in the JDM, as is all-wheel drive), and its aspiration has been upgraded with a 60mm J's Racing SPL throttle body, Max Flow air filter, and a full titanium exhaust. Staving off heat should be a concern in any track-driven car, and J's addressed this in their Fit by swapping to a high-pressure radiator cap and low-temperature thermostat, Samco silicone hoses, and Billion Zero racing water (think JDM Water Wetter). But possibly our favorite underhood mod is the Seicle drive-by-wire controller, which drastically shortens the delay time between pedal input and throttle engagement inherent in electrically controlled throttles-hugely beneficial to heel-toe downshifts and minute throttle modulations.


[img]data:image/svg+xml,%3csvg fill='none' height='24' viewBox='0 0 24 24' width='24' xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%3e%3cpath clip-rule='evenodd' d='m8 2h12c1.1 0 2 .9 2 2v12c0 1.1-.9 2-2 2h-12c-1.1 0-2-.9-2-2v-12c0-1.1.9-2 2-2zm12 14v-12h-12v12zm-8.5-4.33 1.69 2.26 2.48-3.1 3.33 4.17h-10zm-9.5 8.33v-14h2v14h14v2h-14c-1.1 0-2-.9-2-2z' fill='%23fff' fill-rule='evenodd'/%3e%3c/svg%3e[/img]SEE ALL 16 PHOTOS

[img]data:image/svg+xml,%3csvg fill='none' height='24' viewBox='0 0 24 24' width='24' xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%3e%3cpath clip-rule='evenodd' d='m8 2h12c1.1 0 2 .9 2 2v12c0 1.1-.9 2-2 2h-12c-1.1 0-2-.9-2-2v-12c0-1.1.9-2 2-2zm12 14v-12h-12v12zm-8.5-4.33 1.69 2.26 2.48-3.1 3.33 4.17h-10zm-9.5 8.33v-14h2v14h14v2h-14c-1.1 0-2-.9-2-2z' fill='%23fff' fill-rule='evenodd'/%3e%3c/svg%3e[/img]SEE ALL 16 PHOTOSOne of the best improvements one can make to a FWD track car is the addition of a limited-slip differential (LSD), which evenly distributes power between drive wheels, helping maintain acceleration in hard cornering. A J's Racing prototype 1.5-way unit was added here, along with a J's Racing lightweight flywheel, helping to make those heel-toe rev matches even faster.

Class rules pertaining to suspension modification for B-segment street cars are usually pretty lax-retain the stock strut tower locations, and you're good to go. J's cut loose in this department, replacing the GE Fit's original equipment with Crux 30-level adjustable dampers, stiff Hypaco springs, J's front roll-center adjusters, and adding a whole mess of their own chassis reinforcement (see spec sheet).

If additional power can't be added, one of the best ways to make a car faster around a track is by making it stop faster; less time spent on the brakes means more time that can be spent on the throttle. The Fit's stock rotors and pads were swapped with slotted J's Racing and Sedoya R-Master high-friction units, respectively, and allowing them to reach their full potential are plus-sized Bridgestone Potenza tires wrapped around lightweight CE28Ns, a little wider in the front than the rear for increased traction through the twisties, with a bit of rotation.

While you won't find crazy, flared, Super-GT dimensions on street-class B-segment track stars, in the case of the J's Fit, you will find some well-planned aero: a J's Racing GT Type-S front lip and canards, and carbon fiber rear GT wing and diffuser, along with the obligatory lightweight aluminum tow hooks at each end, and of course, signature J's Racing livery, conceptualized and applied by the legendary Art Factory. Inside, a J's Racing prototype carbon fiber dash kit, airbag-packing SPL steering wheel, titanium shift knob, and Pioneer Carrozzeria in-dash flip-screen head unit and NAV server would look right at home in any street-going Fit, just like the sleek Defi gauges would in slightly more performance-oriented builds. Chassis bracing continues with a J's Racing floor bar in front of the rear seats and pillar bar above them. Requisite to any JDM track effort, Recaro buckets and Takata harnesses replace factory recliners and retractables for safety and stability, along with a slight weight savings.

While we American gearheads see a challenge in defying limitations, swapping built, turbocharged DOHC engines and straight-cut dog boxes into those gutted Civic DXs, adding state-of-the-art engine management and traction control and bolting on huge racing slicks in the hunt for that eight-second quarter-mile, the Japanese hold great respect for those who achieve the most within their limitations. Then again, like us, they occasionally love to surpass them. We'll be psyched when the latest J's Fit dominates street-class B-segment racing, no matter how much less the competing cars flex compared to full-blown track machines we're used to lusting over. We get it. But we'd also love to see this thing go down the route of the GD Fit before it, embarrassing some fully built FR giants on the circuit (or maybe even the strip) with freak J's Racing performance. We suspect we're not the only ones; we asked three different members of the J's crew what they thought of the possibilities of that happening, and all they'd give us was an awkward JDM smile, translating roughly to, "Uh . . . we're not supposed to talk about it!"

[img]data:image/svg+xml,%3csvg fill='none' height='24' viewBox='0 0 24 24' width='24' xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%3e%3cpath clip-rule='evenodd' d='m8 2h12c1.1 0 2 .9 2 2v12c0 1.1-.9 2-2 2h-12c-1.1 0-2-.9-2-2v-12c0-1.1.9-2 2-2zm12 14v-12h-12v12zm-8.5-4.33 1.69 2.26 2.48-3.1 3.33 4.17h-10zm-9.5 8.33v-14h2v14h14v2h-14c-1.1 0-2-.9-2-2z' fill='%23fff' fill-rule='evenodd'/%3e%3c/svg%3e[/img]SEE ALL 16 PHOTOSBehind The Build

Name.
J's Racing

Age.
23 in Japan, 3 in USA

Location.
Osaka, Japan / Torrance, CA

Occupation.
Tuning parts manufacturers

Build time.
Mere months

Feedback.
http://j-sracingusa.com

Hobbies.
Tearing the touges; carving the canyons!

[img]data:image/svg+xml,%3csvg fill='none' height='24' viewBox='0 0 24 24' width='24' xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%3e%3cpath clip-rule='evenodd' d='m8 2h12c1.1 0 2 .9 2 2v12c0 1.1-.9 2-2 2h-12c-1.1 0-2-.9-2-2v-12c0-1.1.9-2 2-2zm12 14v-12h-12v12zm-8.5-4.33 1.69 2.26 2.48-3.1 3.33 4.17h-10zm-9.5 8.33v-14h2v14h14v2h-14c-1.1 0-2-.9-2-2z' fill='%23fff' fill-rule='evenodd'/%3e%3c/svg%3e[/img]SEE ALL 16 PHOTOSGE Honda Fit

Output: Unstated

Engine J's Racing 60mm SPL throttle body, SPL valve cover, oil filler cap, aluminum radiator, low-temp thermostat, high-pressure radiator cap, Max Flow air filter, 50-series full titanium exhaust system; Billion Zero racing water; Samco coolant hose kit; Siecle drive-by-wire (DBW) controller; Oberon F322 0W-20 engine oil

Drivetrain J's Racing lightweight flywheel, prototype 1.5-way limited-slip differential (LSD)

Suspension J's Racing Crux 30-level adjustable SPL dampers, FF roll center adjusters; front strut tower brace, side inner brace, floor bar, pillar bar, front monocoque bar, front lower arm bar; Hypaco 12kg/mm front springs, 8kg/mm rear springs

Brakes J's Racing FCR slotted front rotors, SPL stainless steel braided brake lines all around; Sedoya R-Master brake pads (RM551 front, RM300 rear); Oberon F555 DOT 5.1 brake fluid

Wheels/tires Rays Engineering CE28N wheels (16x8 +42 front, 16x7 +42 rear); Bridgestone Potenza tires (215/50-16 front, 205/50-16 rear); J's Racing long racing lugs, nuts

Exterior J's Racing GT Type-S front lip, GT Type-S front canards, carbon fiber rear diffuser, Type-N carbon fiber hood, carbon fiber 3D GT wing, front and rear tow hooks, Type-A short antenna; J's Racing-spec graphics by Art Factory

Interior J's Racing SPL Sports carbon steering wheel, titanium shift knob, prototype carbon interior paneling, low-position seat rail; Recaro RS-G seats; Takata 341R four-point harnesses, Defi Link meters (oil temp., oil pres., water temp., tach.)