2012 Honda Insight
Starting MSRP $18,500–$21,965
By Cars.com Staff
Cars.com National October 27, 2011Vehicle Overview
The Honda Insight hybrid is a five-seat hatchback that's intended to beat the Toyota Prius in terms of price and just about every non-hybrid in terms of gas mileage. It seats five and is available in three trim levels: base, LX and EX.
New for 2012
The Insight sees a number of changes for 2012. The most noticeable is a restyled front end with updated headlights, a different grille with a blue accent bar and a revised front bumper. The rear bumper and taillights also have been tweaked.
Inside, the backseat area has been reworked for additional leg and headroom, according to Honda, and the gauge cluster's appearance has been updated. The cupholders in the center console can hold larger drinks, and there's also new seat fabric for LX models. The lower rear window offers better views, and the cabin is quieter thanks to additional sound insulation, according to Honda.
Exterior
Though it shares some of its underlying structure with the Honda Fit, the Insight is a dedicated hybrid-only model. It recalls the Prius' aerodynamic profile and wedge-shaped tail. Exterior features include:
- Standard 15-inch steel wheels; 15-inch alloy wheels available
- Blue-tinted headlight enclosures
- LED brake lights
- Body-colored folding side mirrors; heated side mirrors available
- Rear-window wiper
Interior
The Insight seats five. The rear seat folds to increase the cargo area. Interior features include:
- Standard automatic air conditioning
- Standard tilt/telescoping steering wheel
- Standard CD stereo with MP3 jack
- Standard Eco Assist driver-feedback system
- Available synthetic leather and premium fabric upholstery
- Available cruise control
- Available USB input
- Available steering-wheel-mounted audio controls
- Available navigation system with backup camera
- Available Bluetooth connectivity
Under the Hood
Like other Honda hybrids, the Insight uses an electric motor to assist in acceleration and to recharge the battery pack when braking or coasting. It drives like any car. Though it technically can accelerate a little bit on electric power without burning fuel, the gas engine continues turning, so the experience isn't as silent and alien as it is in many hybrids. Mechanical features include:
- 98 horsepower total output from 1.3-liter four-cylinder engine and electric motor
- Continuously variable automatic transmission
- Front-wheel drive
Safety
Standard safety features include:
- Electronic stability system
- Side-impact airbags for the front seats
- Side curtain airbags for both rows of seats
- Antilock brakes
- Active head restraints for driver and front passenger
Additional Reviews
Cars.com Expert Reviews
| Joe Bruzek | Cars.com National | October 3, 2012 |
| Cars.com Staff | Cars.com National | October 27, 2011 |
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