Honda’s hybrid lineup is constantly changing, conjuring up new nameplates that may confuse potential buyers. Currently in the stable are the Insight Hybrid, Accord Hybrid, and Clarity. The former two are your standard combustion engine plus electric motor hybrids, while the Clarity is a plug-in hybrid, meaning you can actually plug it into your wall socket and run on electricity alone for up to 76 km. The Insight sits at the bottom of the pyramid and is essentially a Civic Hybrid based on its size and shared platform. The Insight is a tad longer than the Civic and is a traditional sedan with four doors and a proper trunk. We are not sure why Honda chose the Insight name instead of Civic Hybrid, as the latter carries a certain cult following and attraction. That said, the Insight itself does have a storied past and was the first hybrid model available in North America when it debuted in 1999. It was a wacky, two-door coupe with wheel covers on the rears, giving it a futuristic, although controversial aesthetic. It was discontinued in 2004 after slowing sales.
Wrapped in conventional styling that belies its hybrid and fuel-saving intentions, I wouldn’t call the new Insight pretty or visually arresting, and there isn’t enough visual flair or distinction for it to stand out from the concrete jungle. That’s not exactly a bad thing. Anonymous looks are sometimes a prominent purchasing factor for vehicles, especially ones with small footprints like this compact Honda. Still, there are LED lights front and back, and snazzy 17-inch wheels to seal the deal.
Under the hood is a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired to an electric motor and lithium-ion battery, delivering a total of 151 hp. When running by itself, the engine will only make 107 hp, while the electric motor pushes out 129 hp. This powertrain is mated exclusively to a noisy, buzzing, and bland Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) that routes power strictly to the front wheels. All-wheel drive is not an option.
If you are looking to minimize your carbon footprint and an SUV does not tickle your fancy, then there really is no better way to go than a hybrid sedan. The Insight highlights the peak of hybrid technological advancement in efficiency, and it combines stellar fuel economy with an inoffensive, subtle, and undeniably ergonomic family sedan package.
