Honda's first and smallest gas/electric hybrid vehicle is the nation's fuel-economy leader. It remains unchanged for 2006. A 73-hp engine teams with an electric motor/generator to deliver barely acceptable acceleration. It seats only two passengers and can't hold much cargo. Though sleek-looking, the Insight can ride a little rough. It's the least-expensive hybrid on the road.
The 2000 Honda Insight was the first production hybrid to hit American shores and seven years later it's still the most fuel-efficient vehicle sold.
The aerodynamic shape, the ample use of aluminum construction, and the compact design, all contribute to its fuel efficiency. With the average US vehicle having an EPA mileage estimate of only 20.9 miles per gallon, the Insight's estimates of 57 city/56 highway for the automatic transmission and 60/65 for the manual are impressive.Technology
The Insight is powered by a 1.0 liter, 3 cylinder aluminum engine with an electric motor mated to it for additional assist when needed. Together the two produce just over 70 horsepower, but this is certainly peppy enough, given the low curb weight of just under 2000 lbs.
The electric motor also acts as a high spinning starter making for quieter and less damaging startups. It can spin the engine faster than a conventional starter. That means the oil is better distributed before the first cylinder of the engine fires.
Two transmission choices are available: Honda's Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), or the 5 speed manual transmission.