2012 Best Resale Value Awards: Subcompact Car

Why is the Honda Fit the best subcompact car when it comes to resale value? Because it's made by Honda. More specifically, it upholds Honda's signature formula for success by combining reliability, fuel efficiency, affordability and innovation. The Honda Fit has been a true crowd-pleaser since its inception and continues blending utility with driving fun in its second generation.

We prefer the manual over the automatic, but regardless of transmission choice the Fit's 117-horsepower, 1.5-liter engine is responsive while returning up to 35 mpg. On the outside, the seats can be folded to reveal up to 57.3 cubic feet of cargo room and the rear "Magic Seat" flips and folds in different configurations to accommodate all manner of cargo shapes and sizes. It even has a stash pocket underneath the seat bench to store smaller items.

On the outside, the Fit exudes progressive styling, setting it apart from other cars on the road and in its subcompact class. Its large expansive windows allow for greater visibility, and a long wheelbase adds stability. The up-level Fit Sport is the more aggressive looking of the two trims available, including aesthetic additions like an underbody kit and spoiler, dark headlamp bezels and dark 16-inch alloy wheels.

Price-wise, it's hard to overlook the Honda Fit because it can fit in almost anyone's budget, no pun intended. The base trim starts at $16,000 and for those who like everything on their pizza, the Fit Sport with navigation commands a price tag of about $20,500. When all is said and done, these factors are what make the Fit a formidable contender in the subcompact segment.