As an update, I ended up buying a 2014 Ford Focus SE. They had INSANE deals because the new models are out (3,500 in rebates). I got my new hatch out the door at 17,5000, so I was very happy.

The Focus just made more sense, it had great power, great steering and the size is good. I think I like the styling on the Fit a bit more but in my area I couldn't get that type of cash deal.

 

Good price on the Focus. Makes me wonder how much I can get a Fiesta SE/ST for. Too bad both those cars are beaten by the Fit in terms of usable interior space.

 

I got exactly what I wanted in the 2015 Fit EX. I love the visibility, the style inside and out, the pep, the incredible versatility (we've transported wingback chairs once and a 9 drawer dresser another time). Its competitors were:


Focus SE. Second choice. I've rented a couple and really liked them. Ultimately they weren't quite what I was willing to get despite the great deals. And it would have to have been a manual, which were very thin on the ground (my EX is the CVT; I just didn't want the dual-clutch in the Ford). We also had rented several previous-gen post facelift Fusions we liked a whole lot, and which we drove from NY to WI twice and to FL once (all three cars round trip).


Fiesta ST. I was too worried about insurance costs since I haven't owned a car in decades, and whether I really was the right profile for the car (as in would I enjoy it and drive it suitably).


Buick Verano. This one ought to show you why the ST was questionable to me. we do want to take long trips once we're settled in to our new home, but that's not tomorrow. I ultimately decided that and extra $5-10K wasn't justified, and I wanted the Fit's versatility.


Buick Encore. See above, although it was more versatile. Still 8 more hp for that much more? Do love the ugly/cute thing, though.


Finally, Mazda 3. Too expensive.

 

I've looked and test driven pretty much every other car in the subcompact/compact class and none deliver the same amount of value, tech, and utility as the Fit. I've driven smoother, quieter rides, but would have to pay more and/or give up features I'd get with the Fit EX.

 

I spent 4 hours at the NYC auto show in April sitting in everything I might possibly consider - way more cars than my list above, essentially everything subcompact to midsize - and the Fit blew them all away.


(I forgot that I also liked the Hyundai Elantra GT, but it was also more expensive than it needed to be.)