2010 Honda Insight Lockhart TX

October 15, 2009   By Jon Alain Guzik, Editor-in-Chief



2010 Honda Insight
DriverSide Overview
Ten years ago, Honda introduced a new type of vehicle to America – the hybrid. While it reportedly managed 70 mpg thanks to an extremely light-weight design and a fuel-stingy 70 horsepower motor, global sales only came to around 18,000 units. And that’s over seven years. A quirky, ahead of its time design, a tiny stature in a land of giant SUVs and less expensive gas all conspired to hinder the Insight’s success, but Honda wasn’t one to give up easily. This time Honda is back in the game with a second generation Insight, and they have set their sights on the extremely successful Toyota Prius . Can the Insight topple their rival’s king of green? Oh, yes. Honda needed to make the Insight less expensive, more comfortable and more powerful than the Prius, and it seems they have succeeded.








What's to Like
The Insight offers all the drivability of a regular gasoline vehicle and the fuel-economy benefits of a hybrid. An all-new Eco Assist program helps you get the absolute most out of every drop of fuel in a fun and easy-to-use way and the interior is comfortable enough for serious road trips. It’s like an everyday version of their FCX Clarity.
 
What's Not to Like
Unlike the Prius, the Insight is never completely powered by its electric motors. Instead, the 13 horsepower, 58 lb-ft of torque unit simply lends a hand to the gasoline engine. While that doesn’t hurt our feelings any, diehard electric-vehicle fans and Insight loyalists may be disappointed. We say bully to them, but get over it. Also, while there is a good amount of room inside, taller individuals might find the back seat a tight squeeze due to the raked roofline.
 
The Drive:
DriverSide Driving Impressions
On the surface, driving the Honda Insight doesn’t feel too different from driving a standard Civic, which is a good thing, as sometimes hybrids tend to overcompensate for better mpg with a ride that is somewhat disappointing and, shall we say, lacking. Power is more than sufficient, even with a full load of passengers and cargo thanks to the Insight’s robust 1.3-liter four-cylinder engine and its 13 horsepower electric motor. The sizeable front windscreen provides fantastic front visibility, though the C-pillars make for hefty blind spot. As with most Hondas, the Insight is comfortable and clean thanks to a well-designed and ergonomic interior. The ride is smooth and comfortable due to the car’s well-judged suspension, and cabin noise is kept to a minimum.
 
Engine and Drivetrain
Here’s where the Insight really holds its own. As we’ve mentioned, this Honda’s primary source of power is a 1.3-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 98 horsepower and 123 lb-ft of torque.

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