Honda insight may not be a sports car, but it has loads of upticks, especially for the vehicle owner looking for a cheaper and reliable automobile. It may not be the fastest on the highway, but it sure encourages you to save on running costs.
The vehicle is stress-free to drive and is a pleasure on the road. The CVT transmission is smooth, and everything is as quiet as you expect it to be.
Well, build quality is not an issue, especially for the brand.
Honda Insight Upgrades
The manufacturer intended the subcompact hybrid hatch to be the direct competition to the Toyota Prius hybrid. Its sales performance was dismal and did not fulfill its intended purpose.
One of its surprising competitions was the Honda Fit, and Insight could not match Fit’s excellent performance on the market. Honda Fit had a combined fuel efficiency score of 36-mpg, close enough to Honda Insight’s 42 mpg. There was no justifiable reason to go for the pricier hybrid. There were no considerable fuel savings to convince people to choose Insight over Fit and others on the market.
But that does not indicate Insight is not a good car. The vehicle is in every way a highlight of Honda’s commitment to quality and reliability.
In the period between 2000 and 2006, Honda Insight had the best EPA rating. The older 5-speed gearbox Honda could manage 58 mpg on the highway and 48 mpg in the city. Honda Insight with the optional CVT has better figures in 49 mpg on the highway and 45 in the city.
Furthermore, Insight used materials such as aluminum front disc plates that made it lighter and easier to handle. It was also more aerodynamic with a drag coefficient of 0.25, the lowest.
Insight has three trim levels. The base trim is the standard, and the others are LX and the more luxurious EX. The elegant model is the only trim where a backup camera and navigation system were optional.
Initially, there was no Honda Insight base-level trim. The model received the much-awaited updates on features, styling, and efficiency in 2012. Even so, it did not change much through its five-year run.
Honda Insight has a slicker design than the Civic and is relatively easy on the road. It has a stylish and conventional interior.
Under the Hood of the Used Honda Insight
The stylish Honda model is powered by a 1.5-liter inline-4 engine, complemented by the two-motor hybrid system. The hybrid system powers the front wheels after replacing the transmission. It is the same system used in Accord Hybrid.
Honda Insight handling is much better than its competitors, such as the ponderous Prius. The Integrated Motor Assist complements the 98-hp, 1.3-liter 4-cylinder engine and the CVT. The hybrid system is mild, and it cannot power the vehicle independently. Instead, the mild hybrid supplements the gas torque output.
Regardless, the blended powertrain delivers a smooth and quick acceleration.
The hybrid is recharged through engine overrun and regenerative braking.
The Internal and External Honda Insight Features
The high-tailed hatchback shape is similar to that of the Prius and intended to minimize drag on the highway. It has a very colorful two-level dash
The hybrid vehicle has sufficient space for passengers and cargo and boasts a user-friendly dash tech. Also, the infotainment system is comfortable to use, even for first-timers.
The list of active safety features is quite long and comfortably keeps up with the competition. Unfortunately, some users have reported that the Insights petrol engine can drone quite loudly, especially under stress. Some of its rivals boast better handling.
Unlike some of its rivals, the battery pack does not take up the boot space but rather lies beneath the rear seats. It has adequate cargo space for a handful of shopping bags. The cabin has numerous soft-touch materials and is quite comfortable.
Cost of Running a Used Honda Insight
There is some pleasure in driving environmentally-friendly models on the market. But apart from that, there are significant benefits to owning a Honda Insight.
Compared to electric and hybrid vehicles’ current market price, Insight gives you an excellent bang for your buck.
Honda Insight is more aerodynamic and lighter, which pretty much manifests in fuel efficiency and easier handling. The gas mileage exceeds the hybrid standards, which is good for you as the owner.
The insurance cost is not above what you would expect from hybrids of the same caliber. The vehicle parts and servicing expertise is readily available, wherever you are, thanks to the brand’s popularity.
There are many Japanese Used Car, trucks buses, and farm tractors in all Japanese market.
If you want to import a Used Honda Insight, please check the recommended Japanese used car export companies for Honda Insight.
Top Recommended Japanese Used Car Export Companies for International Customers
If you want to know more details about specifications and models, please refer to Wikipedia or other catalogs.