The first generation US Honda Fit engine design is designed for fun-to-drive performance with good fuel economy and low emissions. All of the  Fit US models are equipped with a 1.5-liter, SOHC, 16-valve 4-cylinder VTEC gasoline engine that generates 109 horsepower at 5800 RPM and 105 ft-lbs torque at 4800 RPM.  The engine displaces 1,497 cc and has a 10.4:1 compression ratio with a bore and stroke measuring 73mm x 89.4 mm.

This engine uses Honda's Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) system to deliver good power and performance for this vehicle.  The compact VTEC cylinder head design is designed with a narrow, 30-degree design between the intake and exhaust valves.

The lightweight composite intake manifold design on this engine is a long runner design that contributes to good low and mid-range torque output.  Also included is an electronic Drive-by-Wire throttle control which allows the ECU instantly determines the optimal throttle position for every driving situation. The throttle body diameter on this engine design is 50mm.

Several friction reducing designs included in this engine are roller bearing tipped rocker arms, a low friction cam chain tensioner, molybdenum coated piston skirts and an offset crankshaft/connecting rod design.   The molybdenum design piston is first 'pulverized' into powder form and then embedded into the piston skirts using a high pressure shot. The molybdenum design enhances the 'lubrication' between the piston and the cylinder walls, adding to that which is already provided by the engine oil and this greatly reduces internal power loss through friction in this area of the engine.

This engine was also designed for low emissions by using an oblique design flow catalytic converter for increased contact area of exhaust gas inside converter.  Also included are stainless steel exhaust pipes designed for fast warm up, good heat dissipation and low weight and a conventional exhaust gas recirculation system (EGR) for routing part of the exhaust gas back into the intake air fuel mixture.

Engine Design:

  • VTEC
  • 50mm throttle body
  • Drive By Wire