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ANN ARBOR, MI – It doesn’t take long for foreign auto makers to supersize their cars once they reach U.S. shores, and Honda Motor Co. Ltd. is a perfect example with its Civic compact and Accord midsize sedans.

Now comes a new version of the quirky Honda Fit, a tall subcompact hatchback that at one time begged to be called “cute.” But no more.

The reengineered ’09 Fit, made available at a press preview here, is wider and longer, with a more aggressive face and lower stance. The 16-in.wheels on the up-trim Sport add boldness, and a horsepower boost matches the car’s super-forward “aero-form design” that encompasses a reinforced body structure.

This grownup Fit is enjoyable to drive, with a peppy spirit, welcoming interior, superb handling, excellent fuel efficiency and an attractive price.

It replaces the first-generation vehicle that launched in Japan in June 2001, arriving in the U.S. in April 2006.

Since its initial global introduction, the Fit has met with success in 115 countries. Called the Jazz in Europe, Australia and China; the City in Thailand and India; and the Aria in some South America countries, Honda says worldwide it has sold 2.5 million units to date, including some ’09 models.