2010 Honda Insight Overview

The 2010 Insight hybrid, with a U.S. EPA city/highway fuel-economy rating of 40/43 miles per gallon, will launch in April 2009 and will be priced below the Civic Hybrid.

by Staff

January 29, 2009

2 min to read

The five-passenger 2010 Honda Insight offers, which will launch in April 2009, features an adaptable cargo area and 60/40 split fold-down seats provide extended utility. A 1.3-liter 4-cylinder i-VTEC gasoline engine and a 10-kilowatt electric motor form the foundation of the Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) hybrid system.

Additionally, the Insight introduces an all-new Ecological Drive Assist System (Eco Assist), a driver-selected fuel efficiency feature. Pressing the ECON button can enhance the efficiency of multiple vehicle systems: throttle control, CVT operation, idle stop duration, air conditioning and cruise control operation (EX only). Eco Assist also provides driving style recommendations via a 3D background within the speedometer that changes color to reflect how efficiently the driver is accelerating and braking. Drivers' results are continuously tracked as fuel economy ratings are shown per drive cycle and on a lifetime basis in the form of plant leaf graphics that can appear in the Multi-Information Display.

The design of the new Insight features a sleek, futuristic look. The flat underbody and related strakes near the wheels help the Insight slip through the air with low levels of turbulence and minimal vehicle drag. The MacPherson strut front suspension and torsion beam rear suspension are tuned to provide sporty performance and a comfortable ride, while the compact component size allows for ample interior space. Low-rolling-resistance tires further enhance the vehicle's efficiency. The body construction features significant use of high-strength steel, which helps reduce weight and enhance rigidity.

Two trim levels are available—the Insight LX and EX. Top features standard to the Insight LX include an automatic continuously variable transmission, automatic climate control, power windows, power door locks with remote entry, tilt and telescopic steering column and driver's seat height adjustment, four-speaker 160-watt audio system with CD player, projector-beam headlights and LED brake lights. Features added with the Insight EX include Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®), an electronic stability system; alloy wheels; steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters; a six-speaker audio system; USB audio interface; and turn signal-integrated side mirrors. Also available with the Insight EX are the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ with Voice Recognition and a Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink™ system.

Topics:Honda Insight Gasoline-Electric Hybrids Green Fleet

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