- Will there be a Honda Fit RS in 2020?
- Inexpensive Overlanding tips?
- Honda CR-V vs new Subaru Forester?
The first question comes from a viewer who wants to know if the Honda Small RS Concept will become a Honda Fit RS in 2020.
Hi Nathan, I just saw a story that makes me hope for a Honda Fit RS!
I saw an article on the Honda Small RS Concept that looks like it could easily be a Honda Fit. The reason I am all over this idea is because, like you I love the Fit but I think it needs a more powerful engine. I have a 2016 Honda Fit and my partner has a 2017 Honda HR-V front drive with a stick. We bought both based on your recommendations and we have never been happier with our vehicular choices. Except, I want a little bit more power.
My 130 horsepower is pretty good, but a turbo 1.5 liter that makes 174 horsepower is WAY WAY better. Do you think Honda will build it?
Thanks man, I love all of your stuff and I just became a subscriber on TFLnow!
Edward from Burbank, California
A: Hi Edward!
Our friends at Autonetmagz and Carscoops produced stories about the Honda Small RS Concept that looks like it was aimed at the overseas market. While Honda is exploring more high performance versions of their other vehicles, there has been no mention of the Honda Fit so far.
There IS a rumor that some of the folks at Honda are serious about injecting more performance in to every vehicle they build. Sadly, there is nothing to substantiate the rumor. I guess it’s wishful thinking.
It would be awesome to have a wicked-fast Honda Fit RS, but there has to be a ton of positive feedback before Honda even considers the idea for our market.
Let’s hope they get lots of positive feedback!
N
This next question comes from a fan who wants to overland inexpensively.
A:Â Hi Casey!
Great question. I have a friend who has a van like yours and he uses it (primarily) as a transport for his bikes. He sleeps in it too!
Right off the bat, I would consider a foam mattress or, possibly a used futon mattress to stuff in there. It’s very important to have a warm place to lay comfortably, especially with how cold Flagstaff, Arizona can be.
Consider the basics for overlanding, items like:
- Extra water
- Food (dry foods are easier to store)
- Fuel (oil, antifreeze – etc.)Â
- Extra Tires – jack (high-lift jack would be awesome)/tire patches/tire slime
- Off-road equipment – chains/straps/tools (jumper cables, wrenches, pliers – etc.)
- First aid kit
- Lighting (flashlights, candles, lanterns – etc.)
- Wood blocks and planks (these help with many things including leveling, repairs and traction)
From this list, which should be inexpensive to fill – if you’re creative, make sure your running gear is up to the task. Having good tires is extremely important too. Remember: there’s a good chance that you will be dealing with tricky terrain, or unpredictable weather conditions.
Check secondhand sources for some of these and other items.
We will keep an eye out for you and your van. We’ll be around during the show in our Hummer H2 Overlanding rig – look us up!
N
The last question comes from a fan who wants to know our opinion regarding the new Subaru Forester vs the Honda CR-V.
I saw your CR-V vs Toyota RAV4 video a while ago, but I was wondering what you thought of the new Subaru Forester? I live in Reno, NV and I need something that’s comfy daily and has good power way up high.
I can’t find any information on the Forester XT, which was the model from last year that I was considering. I know you like Foresters, maybe you have additional input?
Namaste!
Lizzy
A: Hi Lizzy!
There’s good news and bad news for you. The good news is: both vehicles are highly rated and very safe. The bad news is: Subaru no longer makes the Forester XT (which had a turbo) – so power will be low at high elevation. The Honda CR-V has an optional power plant and works well at high elevation.
While the new Subaru Forester has an upgraded interior and power-plant, we like the turbocharged CR-V more.
By the way, you might find a good deal on the current model Subaru Forester XT – while they are still on dealership lots.
Best of luck!
N
Speaking of easy driving…
Nathan and The Fast Lane Car team are here to answer your (reasonable) questions. Interesting and/or entertaining emails will be posted to this column. If it’s relevant in the automotive universe, there’s a chance we may know something about it. The author’s email address and name will be omitted – leaving your initials or nickname, your preference.From day one, The Fast Lane Car has made it our policy to answer as many questions and comments as we can. We get thousands of emails and comments and feel that, as part of a tight-knit automotive community, having an open dialogue with you keeps things fresh and exciting.Got a question for Nathan? Drop him a line at: asknathan@tflcar.com.
