First Look Honda Insight

This article is the archived version of a report that appeared in the July 2009 Consumer Reports magazine.

With a starting price of $19,800, Honda's new Insight is the least expensive gas/electric hybrid car available. We recently paid $21,970 for a typically equipped EX version (the LX is less expensive). That's about $1,800 less than the outgoing version of the Toyota Prius. A redesigned Prius is expected to go on sale in June.

This second-generation Insight is derived from the Honda Fit, our top-rated subcompact car. The original Insight, which in 1999 was the first hybrid released in the U.S., was a two-seater that got 51 mpg overall in our fuel-economy tests. But it was cramped and noisy inside, with little cargo space. The new model is a five-passenger hatchback that looks like a seven-eighths-scale Prius. We've measured 38 mpg overall. The base Prius got 44 mpg overall; the Touring version, 42. The Civic Hybrid got 37.

The Insight combines a 1.3-liter, four-cylinder engine with an electric motor to produce 98 hp. Its continuously variable automatic transmission works well, though acceleration is leisurely. The Insight can run solely on electric power while driving steadily at low speeds, but unlike in the Prius its gas engine doesn't stop turning. As with other hybrids, the Insight's engine does shut off at stops to conserve fuel. It starts again when the brake pedal is released, but it does so with a slight vibration.

Pressing a green "Econ" button on the dash activates an Eco Assist system that modifies drivetrain performance and other variables to produce better fuel economy. But it makes engine response feel even more muted.

It's fairly easy to get in and out of the front seats, which are firm, well shaped, and supportive. Though the cabin is a bit narrow, it's easy to find a good driving position. The backseats are rather cramped, and passengers can bang their head when getting in.

The Insight's ride is stiff and choppy, and there's pronounced road noise. Handling is sound but the car isn't nearly as agile as the Fit. Electronic stability control is available on the EX but not on the LX, a glaring omission for a new $20,000 car.

Bottom line

The Insight's gas mileage is impressive and its price is low, but the car achieves that price by sacrificing some comfort and refinement. In forthcoming issues, we'll provide full test results on the Insight and will report on the new Prius.