It would seem to me that the traction control/stability control would solve 90% of the problem. I think the AWD would be an intriguing option, but if the mileage/performance penalty is too great, or the initial cost too high, then other vehicles start to make more sense...
The Fit isn't necessarily a car for all seasons; claim to fame is economy (both buying and running), fun to drive and practicality. Lose any of that, and then Honda is competing in another market altogether.
Moon

 

I am some what confused with the AWD system and the VSA (vehicle stability assist). I know many companies have different names for their AWD system. But isn't VSA a type of AWD on the new Fit?

 

The VSA can only effect power delivery thru' the front wheels, as they are the only ones with power. No disrespect, danger; now that I'm done stating the obvious, here's a question for Navi owners.
When you lose traction, does the computer cut power from the engine, apply the brakes, or both?
BTW, stability/traction can also work on All Wheel Drive vehicles; the newer versions of our VW work that way. That said, the torsen central diff distributes power very nicely on my bride's panzer. Just for giggles, I mashed the throttle at the bottom of our steep, 8" of snow driveway. The system thought about it for a split second, then just fired me up and out of the driveway...lucky I didn't hit my neighbor.
Moon

 

uuummmmm my AT w/NAV well drive its self, theres a on ramp that with my old civic ex i couldn't hit 35 with out tire slippage but in the fit im doing 55 (almost shat my pants)but i do believe there was some power loss but i dont recall the brakes coming on... TCS was on, ill do it one more time (tomorrow)and i well pay attention this time

 

Thankee, Blackout; we'll be happy to know your results.
Just don't put yourself into the guardrails in the name of science!
Moon

 

Just reviving this thread. We have a 2002 Honda Fit GD4 AWD from Japan. The model code is 1.5T vtec Almas and it comes with CRV style awd system (mechanical driveshaft w/rear diff) which is FWD until slip occurs then the rear kicks in. Combined with the 7 speed CVT you can't feel it kick in at all it's pretty seamless. Some other goodies that my 2007 canadian model did not have is a rotating passenger swivel seat which is useful for chilling out on a rainy day facing each other front to back.

With regards to mpg loss, in the summer time there's no difference that we've found. hwy the same. When it gets slick/snowy then the mpg still is about the same because we drop down from 195/55 all seasons to the snow tires 175/65's.

I wish they were offered in north america. Every single person we know who owns a Fit would kill for an awd version. I'm just starting to see them imported to Canada in the past year from Japan. Low mileage good condition one's are cheap usually around $4k landed.

Just a head's up to those who are skeptical about an awd Fit. They are awesome. Best of both worlds imo.

 

Too cool. I'm sure Canadians will highly benefit with an AWD Fit! Not sure I would personally need it but it'd be cool to see more around.