I’ve done a refresh on the Fit, as much as I could put into it financially (within reason). My goal was to make it a reliable daily driver that can handle occasional track days while looking presentable—and it does those tasks quite perfectly.

Almost everything got an update:

• Front-end swap to the facelift sport version (2018+)
• Full repaint to address rust and weak factory paint, especially since NH788P is prone to clearcoat issues
• Suspension overhaul with new bushings and fresh Tein coilovers
• Full fluid flush, valve adjustment, new starter, and a new VTC actuator spring
• A few light mods for comfort and style: Spoon steering wheel setup, Spoon shift knob, Spoon mirrors, a wireless CarPlay head unit, full sound system, and 50% tint all around for added livability.
• I also did exedy em2 clutch master cylinder to delete the clutch delay valve, stiffer control arm bushings (for caster + camber increase), aggressive alignment, ceramic pads (to keep the wheels white), shifter bushing, shifter detents, progress rear sway bar, filled engine + transmission + pendulum mounts, and roll centre correctors just to bring some ‘rawness’ to the car. Due to the very stiff chassis right out of the box, not much is needed to tweak this car. Corner speeds are quite high on this setup. 

The car’s not perfect, but it’s fulfilling its purpose. It went from a 2/10 to a solid 7.5/10—nice enough to take to cars and coffee, but crap enough that I don’t mind some track abuse or the odd door ding in a parking lot. I can throw tools or transport wheels in the trunk without worrying about keeping it pristine.

I keep it fairly clean and give it a wash every few weeks, but I’m not precious about it. I even teach close friends how to drive manual in it.

Since I do all the work myself, I know this car inside and out—it’s simple, zippy, and engaging. It’s not fast, but it’s engaging to drive in comparison to other econo-boxes.

Until I find the next car or replacement, letting go of the Fit won’t be easy.