THERE is something to be said for free enterprise and the parallel import system. The new Honda Fit hatchback may have only been launched last month in Japan, but it can already be found here in some parallel importers' showrooms.

BHP Auto at Defu Lane10, for example, is getting strong interest for this domestic version of the Honda Jazz, which will be offered by authorised distributor Kah Motor only next March.

Two i-VTEC engines are available - 1.3 and 1.5 litres - and each has two trim levels. The 1.3 G has standard equipment like twin airbags and a keyless entry system with immobiliser, while the higher-grade 1.3 L adds on to that with goodies such as climate control aircon, driver's seat armrest and height adjuster, and flexible luggage board. Both 1.3-litre models come only with CVT or continuously variable transmission as standard.

Only the top-of-the-line 1.5 RS has the option of a five-speed manual gearbox. The 1.5RS with CVT also has paddle shifters on the steering wheel.

The new Fit also boasts distinctly improved performance. The 1.3 model's power is up by 14 PS to 100 hp, while torque is 11 Newton-metres higher at 127 Nm.

As a result, the new car feels much lighter off its feet.

Apart from the smoothness of the i-VTEC power plant - compared with the old car's i-DSI unit, this new sensation can also be attributed to the new drive-by-wire electronic throttle.

The 1.5 RS feels even more dynamic. Its 1,496 cc engine has 120 PS and 145 Nm of torque.

Overall, the new car's steering is comparable to the old model. It is light and the quick ratio makes it as manoeuvrable as before. So even if the new car looks bigger, it still feels as agile.

Ergonomically, the biggest improvement has to be the car's all-round visibility. The 'super forward' cabin with its larger front windscreen and 30 per cent bigger A-pillar window has increased forward visibility immensely. Never has a mini felt so airy and spacious from the inside. This new Honda is certainly a good Fit.

Honda Fit 1.3 (Japan domestic model)
Engine: 1,339cc i-VTEC
Gearbox: Continuously variable transmission
Max power: 100 PS @ 6,000 rpm
Max torque: 127 Nm @ 4,800 rpm
0-100 kmh: 8.4 secs
Top speed: 165 kmh
Price: from $57,000 (with COE)
Distributor: BHP Auto. Tel: 6846-6555