2010 Honda Insight: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2010 Honda Insight is a new, dedicated hybrid model from the Japanese automaker. This gas/electric hybrid car is a 5-passenger, 4-door hatchback that mates a 1.3-liter 4-cylinder engine with a battery-powered electric motor for 98 horsepower. Honda's hybrid system allows Insight to run on one or both of its power sources. Most of the time, however, the gas engine shuts off at a stop and restarts again when the driver releases his or her foot from the brake pedal. No plug-in charging is required. Insight has a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that behaves much like an automatic. LX and EX trim levels are offered. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain-side airbags, and front-side airbags. EX comes with cruise control, steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters, alloy wheels, heated power mirrors, and an upgraded audio system. A navigation system is available, and Insights so equipped are priced as separate models. They also include a wireless cell-phone link.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Compact Cars comprise popularly priced sedans, hatchbacks, and wagons with wheelbases 99.4 inches or longer.

Our Best Buys include the Honda Civic, Mazda 3, Nissan Versa, and Volkswagen Jetta. Our Recommended pick is the Scion xB.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Honda Insight, Kia Forte, Mazda 3, Mitsubishi Lancer (Sportback), and Volkswagen Golf.