Wikicars - User contributions [en]

Honda Insight Review

2006-11-15T21:28:38Z

142.104.100.20: /* Performance and Handling */

The Insight is Honda's lowest priced [[Hybrid Cars|Hybrid]] car offering. After having been on sale since late 1999, it will not be offered after the 2006 model year. A replacement model has been rumored for [http://auto.consumerguide.com/articles/index.cfm/act/newsarticles/article/NA_BYE_INSIGHT.html 2009].
[[Image:Grey Insight.jpg|right|300px]]
See also the main fact sheets for the 2006 [[Honda Insight]].

==High Points==
*Best Fuel economy of any gasoline powered car in America
*Fun to drive (one of the fastest stops in the world)
*Unique teardrop design (100 mpgs behind trucks)
*Exclusiveness (extremely rare and possibly collectible)

==Low Points==
*Extremely focused design
*Digital speedometer (including mileage gauge)
*Limited practicality
*Loud roadnoise

==Performance and Handling==

All things considered, it is quite good. Even with its meager power output of 67 [[HP|horsepower]] (73 with Integrated Motor Assist), the Insight is reasonably peppy in urban driving conditions (when equipped with the 5-speed manual). The Insight's low curb weight helps add to driving enjoyment. The 5-speed manual transmission models have a crisp and accurate gear lever which makes clean and fast shifting easy. Drivers looking for an [[Automatic transmission|automatic]] option will find the CVT much to their liking. The seemless operation does come at the expense of acceleration, although only to a minor degree. An idle engine-off feature aids economy but can be jerky at times (on manual transmission models).

==Gas Mileage==

The 2006 Honda Civic is ranked as the most economical vehicle, with 60/66 [http://www.autos.com/autos/rankings_mpg?cat=passenger_cars&segment=compact_cars&rank=mpg&year=2006 MPG].

==Safety: 4 Stars (out of 5)==

*[[Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS)|ABS]] 4-wheel [[Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS)|anti-lock brakes]] ([[Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS)|ABS]])
*Front Impact Airbags driver and passenger
*Side Impact Beams
*Front and rear crush zones
*Box-sectioned cabin floor
*Reinforced hexagonal frame extrusions
*3-point seat belts with [[Seatbelt Pretensioners|pretensioners]]
*4 Star National Highway Traffic Safety Agency [http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/ NHTSA] crash test rating

==Interior and Comforts==

[[Image:Insight interior.jpg|right|300px]]
The Insight's interior blends modernism with minimalism. This is exaggerated somewhat by the digital dash and Integrated Motor Assist display screen. The Insight's instrument panel provides a simplistic and stylish presentation of data, in addition to an excellent view of the instrumentation. Two large cub holders are in a convenient place yet do not disturb drivers who opt for the manual gearbox. Material quality is typical Honda, being tastefully selected and precisely assembled. There are no rear seats and the rear hatchback load area is quite shallow due to the battery pack below the carpet. Anyone planning to take an Insight out to pick up some shopping should kept this in mind. Both of the seats offer excellent lateral and back support. Visibility is quite good, with the exception of shorter drivers possibly having difficulty with the rearward view due to the slope of the rear hatch.

==Exterior==

Aerodynamic aids abound on seemingly every single exterior surface. The Insight was, clearly, the product of a very focused effort from Honda. The teardrop silhouette of the exterior, combined with the rear fender skirts and aerodynamically styled light alloy wheels produce one of the lowest coefficients of drag (Cd) of any production automobile in the world at 0.25. It's interesting to note that the front fenders and rear wheel skirts are plastic, and few people notice the difference in design or style.

==Styles and Options==

The Insight is available only as a two-door hatchback. There are only two trims available: Manual or CVT. The manual transmission version can be optioned with air conditioning, while the CVT model gets [[Automatic transmission|automatic]] climate control as standard equipment.

===Main Competitors===

* [[Toyota Prius]]

==External Links==

'''''Honda Manufacturer Sites'''''
*[http://automobiles.honda.com/models/model_overview.asp?ModelName=Insight Official Honda Insight Website]
*[http://estore.honda.com/ext_html/honda-insight-accessories.htm Honda Insight Accessories - Official Site]

[[Category:Model Reviews]]

Honda Insight

2006-11-15T21:25:19Z

142.104.100.20: /* Styles and Major Options */

[[Image:insightred.jpg|300px|right|]]

The '''[[Honda]] Insight''' is a 2-seat hatchback [[Hybrid Cars|hybrid automobile]] manufactured by [[Honda]]. It was the first mass-produced [[Hybrid Cars|hybrid]] automobile sold in the United States, introduced in 1999 (in Japan, however, the first generation of the [[Toyota Prius]] was launched in 1997). According to the [http://www.epa.gov EPA], the 5-speed manual transmission variant of the Insight is the most fuel-efficient mass-produced automobile sold in the United States. The Insight is also one of the cleanest: the CARB rated the 5-speed variant ULEV and the CVT variant [[Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle|SULEV]]. This trade off is due to the 5-speed's lean-burn ability which increases efficiency at the expense of slightly higher NOx emissions.

Developed from the original J-VX design study, it was introduced for the 1999 model year. [[Honda]] has announced that production of the Insight will end in September 2006. A new [[Hybrid Cars|hybrid]] model, a car smaller and less expensive than the [[Honda Civic|Civic]] is slated for release in [http://auto.consumerguide.com/articles/index.cfm/act/newsarticles/article/NA_BYE_INSIGHT.html 2009.]

The Insight pairs a three-cylinder gasoline engine with a brushless electric motor located on the crankshaft. Behind the driver's and the passenger's seats there is a set of 144 V NiMH batteries. Under heavy acceleration, the electric motor provides additional power while during deceleration, the motor acts as a generator and recharges the batteries using a process called regenerative braking. A computer control module regulates how much power comes from the internal combustion engine and electric motor, to find the optimal combination of power or effeciency from the driver inputs. The current battery charge is shown on the dashboard, as is the instantaneous fuel efficiency and current state of the electric motor, whether it is assisting the engine or charging the batteries.

While the emphasis has been clearly placed on economy, [[Honda]] engineers have still managed to make the Insight pleasant to drive. Many new car reviewers have glossed over the lively steering and precise 'snap and click' gear lever offered in the 5-speed manual trim. The narrow low-rolling-resistance P165/65 R14 78S tires aid toward meeting the economy objective, while also exhibiting excellent ride quality characteristics.

See WikiCars' comprehensive [[Honda Insight Review|'''Honda Insight Review''']].

==Recent Changes==
The Insight is nearing the end of its design life cycle. Come September 2006, it will no longer be in production.

==Styles and Major Options==
'''Two seat front wheel drive hatchback'''
* 1.0 Liter 3-Cylinder Engine with [[Integrated Motor Assist (IMA)]], producing 73 net [[horsepower]] (hp)
* Idle stop feature
* Front wheel drive
* Available [[Continuously Variable Transmission]] (CVT)
'''Options'''
* Air Conditioning (available with manual transmission)
* Automatic Climate Control (included with [[Continuously Variable Transmission]] (CVT)
* Security System
* In-Dash 6-Disc CD Changer

==Pricing==
The Insight retails for MSRP $19,330 and carries a $550 delivery fee, giving it a base price of $19,880. The U.S. [[Hybrid Tax Credits|Federal Income Tax Credit]] is $1,460 for CVT models purchased prior to December 31, 2010.

<table border=1 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#ccccc>
<td colspan=2>
'''Trim'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=ffffcc>
<td>
3-cylinder Manual
</td>
<td>
3-cylinder CVT
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan=2 bgcolor=#ccccc>
'''Price'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#66ccff>
<td colspan=2>
''MSRP''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$19,330
</td>
<td>
$21,530
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#66ccff>
<td colspan=2>
''Invoice''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$18,072
</td>
<td>
$20,123
</td>
</tr>
</table>

==Gas Mileage==
The Insight can attain an [http://hondanews.com/CatID2057?mid=2005092167205&mime=asc EPA] rating of 60 MPG City and 66 MPG Highway when equiped with the 5-speed manual transmission. Actual mileage may vary. Some owners have seen averages of 54.7 MPG with their [http://www.greenhybrid.com/compare/mileage/honda-insightcvt.html Honda Insight CVT] and 63.2 MPG with the [http://www.greenhybrid.com/compare/mileage/honda-insightmanual.html Honda Insight 2WD Manual].

<table border=1 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#ccccc>
<td colspan=2>
'''Trim'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=ffffcc>
<td>
3-cylinder Manual
</td>
<td>
3-cylinder CVT
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan=2 bgcolor=#ccccc>
'''Engine'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
1.0L [[Overhead Camshafts|SOHC]] VTEC
</td>
<td>
1.0L [[Overhead Camshafts|SOHC]] VTEC
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan=2 bgcolor=#ccccc>
'''MPG (City/Highway)'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
60/66
</td>
<td>
57/56
</td>
</tr>
</table>

==Reliability==

==Safety==
* [[Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS)|Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)]]
* Dual front [[Airbag|air-bags]] (SRS)
* Front and rear crumple zones
* Front [[Seatbelt Pretensioners|3-Point safety belts with automatic tensioning]] system
* 4 Star National Highway Traffic Safety Agency [http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/ NHTSA] crash test rating

==Photos==
[[Image:insightsteering.jpg|300px|right|]]
[[image:Insightengine.jpg|thumb|right|300px|Honda Insight Engine]]
[[Image:insighthatch.jpg|300px|right|]]

==Colors==
'''Exterior'''
* Citrus Yellow (discontinued after U.S. rookie year production run of 1,250)
* Navy Blue Pearl
* New Formula Red
* Silverstone Metallic

'''Interior'''
* [http://automobiles.honda.com/tools/buildandprice/frame.asp?step=trims&VIEW=34FRONT&SERIES=4&YEAR=2006&SERIESNAME=Insight&RURL=http%3A%2F%2Fautomobiles.honda.com%2Fmodels%2Fspecifications_full_specs.asp%3FModelName%3DInsightlink Beige]

==Main Competitors==
* [[Honda Civic Hybrid]]
* [[Toyota Prius]]

==Unique Attributes==
The [[Honda]] Insight is a mild hybrid that utilizes "lean burn" technology to earn high mileage at high speeds. Lean burn relies on two spark plugs per cylinder, and is very difficult to engage. Without using lean burn mode, most drivers will not experience EPA ratings of up to 70 mpgs in the US for the early models.

Although it beats the Prius on the highway, it cannot run on its electric motor alone. Both have the ability to automatically turn off its gasoline engine when the vehicle is at a stop (and restart it upon movement). Since it is more powerful (10 kW) than most starters of conventional cars, the Insight's electric motor can start the engine nearly instantaneously.

The Insight is also hand made from Aluminum at the plant that produces the S2000. It utilizes plastic bumpers and a teardrop shape designed to reduce drag. It glides through the air with a .25 cd, equivalent to a fighter jet.

==Resale Values==
Resale values for the Insight appear to be strong as evidenced by the pre-owned prices commanded by dealers and owners selling privately. A combination of low sales volumes and the halo effect of the [[Honda]] brand name could be associated with increasing resale values.

<table border=1 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#ccccc>
<td colspan=7>
'''Year Model'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=ffffcc>
<td>
2006
</td>
<td>
2005
</td>
<td>
2004
</td>
<td>
2003
</td>
<td>
2002
</td>
<td>
2001
</td>
<td>
2000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan=7 bgcolor=#ccccc>
'''Resale Values'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$21,530
</td>
<td>
$19,850
</td>
<td>
$18,225
</td>
<td>
$15,950
</td>
<td>
$13,600
</td>
<td>
$12,025
</td>
<td>
$10,125
</td>
</tr>
</table>

==Design Quirks and Oddities==
The stand alone two-seater hatchback [[Hybrid Cars|hybrid]] offered in the North American market, the Insight offers a certain exclusiveness. The narrow rear track of the car gives it a unique teardrop silhouette.

==Criticisms==
Having only two seats could turn off prospective green thinking buyers, as this vehicle is a very focused effort from [[Honda]].

==Awards==
* The [[Honda]] Insight was the winner of the '''IntelliChoice''' 2006 "''Best Overall Value of the Year''" in the subcompact class.
* The Insight also had the ''Highest EPA Fuel Economy Rating'' in 2005, and was named ''Best Fuel Economy'' for 2006 by '''Kiplinger's'''.

For a complete list of accolades and honors, visit the official [[Honda]] Insight [http://automobiles.honda.com/models/model_overview.asp?ModelName=Insight website]

==Specifications==
* [[Continuously Variable Transmission]] (CVT) or 5-speed manual transmission
* 1.0L three-cylinder aluminum-alloy gasoline engine with 67 [[HP|horsepower]] and 66 lb-ft of torque
* 144V electric motor with 14 [[HP|horsepower]] at 3000 rpm
* [[Regenerative Braking]] System
* Ni-MH battery pack
* Digital fuel mileage indicator
* Remote entry system
* Immobilizer theft-deterrant system
* Electrically assisted rack-and-pinion steering
* 14" light alloy wheels
* [[Low Rolling Resistance Tires]]
* Rear fender skirts and teardrop shape aid to give a low coefficient of aerodynamic drag (Cd) of 0.25
* Heat-rejecting green-tinted [http://hondanews.com/CatID2052?mid=2005092168375&mime=asclink glass]

==Current Generation: (2000–2006)==
[[Image:J-VX.jpg|frame| '''J-VX''']]
[[Image:EV Plus.jpg|frame| '''EV Plus''']]
[[Image:Insight impression.jpg|frame| '''Insight impression''']]

The Insight is very much the culmination of earlier design studies and engineering test mule vehicle experiments. The design is very much renascent of the J-VX Concept Study of 1997, combined with [[Honda]]'s research into electric propulsion, which resulted in the development of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_EV_Plus EV Plus]. A lease program was first launched in Japan in 1997 and followed in the United States for 1999 with 300 units offered. The EV Plus battery pack technology has been revised into the Integrated Motor Assist powertrain you see today. It is the marriage of the Nickel Metal Hydride batteries used in the EV Plus study, coupled to the a revised version of the IMA assist first developed for the J-VX study. The IMA powertrain, as introduced with the J-VX, was originally developed with an ultra-capacitor. In the J-VX, this ultra-capacitor was used instead of the Insight's battery pack for energy storage. Concerns over crash test performance prevented this from reaching production however. The ultra-capacitor was in a precarious position inside the J-VX, mounted ahead of the rear axle and very close to the gas tank. In addition, capacitors have an added downside of losing their charge relatively quickly, which would have compromised efficiency in typical everyday traffic scenarios.

==External links==
* [http://automobiles.honda.com/models/model_overview.asp?ModelName=Insight Honda Insight - Official Site]
* [http://estore.honda.com/ext_html/honda-insight-accessories.htm Honda Insight Accessories - Official Site]
* [http://www.GreenHybrid.com GreenHybrid.com]
* [http://www.MixedPower.com MixedPower.com]
* [http://www.insightcentral.org InsightCentral.org: The Independent Honda Insight Website]

This page uses content from Wikipedia; see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Insight Honda Insight], which includes these [http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Honda_Insight&action=history contributors].

Honda Insight

2006-11-15T21:25:05Z

142.104.100.20: /* Styles and Major Options */

[[Image:insightred.jpg|300px|right|]]

The '''[[Honda]] Insight''' is a 2-seat hatchback [[Hybrid Cars|hybrid automobile]] manufactured by [[Honda]]. It was the first mass-produced [[Hybrid Cars|hybrid]] automobile sold in the United States, introduced in 1999 (in Japan, however, the first generation of the [[Toyota Prius]] was launched in 1997). According to the [http://www.epa.gov EPA], the 5-speed manual transmission variant of the Insight is the most fuel-efficient mass-produced automobile sold in the United States. The Insight is also one of the cleanest: the CARB rated the 5-speed variant ULEV and the CVT variant [[Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle|SULEV]]. This trade off is due to the 5-speed's lean-burn ability which increases efficiency at the expense of slightly higher NOx emissions.

Developed from the original J-VX design study, it was introduced for the 1999 model year. [[Honda]] has announced that production of the Insight will end in September 2006. A new [[Hybrid Cars|hybrid]] model, a car smaller and less expensive than the [[Honda Civic|Civic]] is slated for release in [http://auto.consumerguide.com/articles/index.cfm/act/newsarticles/article/NA_BYE_INSIGHT.html 2009.]

The Insight pairs a three-cylinder gasoline engine with a brushless electric motor located on the crankshaft. Behind the driver's and the passenger's seats there is a set of 144 V NiMH batteries. Under heavy acceleration, the electric motor provides additional power while during deceleration, the motor acts as a generator and recharges the batteries using a process called regenerative braking. A computer control module regulates how much power comes from the internal combustion engine and electric motor, to find the optimal combination of power or effeciency from the driver inputs. The current battery charge is shown on the dashboard, as is the instantaneous fuel efficiency and current state of the electric motor, whether it is assisting the engine or charging the batteries.

While the emphasis has been clearly placed on economy, [[Honda]] engineers have still managed to make the Insight pleasant to drive. Many new car reviewers have glossed over the lively steering and precise 'snap and click' gear lever offered in the 5-speed manual trim. The narrow low-rolling-resistance P165/65 R14 78S tires aid toward meeting the economy objective, while also exhibiting excellent ride quality characteristics.

See WikiCars' comprehensive [[Honda Insight Review|'''Honda Insight Review''']].

==Recent Changes==
The Insight is nearing the end of its design life cycle. Come September 2006, it will no longer be in production.

==Styles and Major Options==
'''Two seat front wheel drive hatchback'''
* 1.0 Liter 3-Cylinder Engine with [[Integrated Motor Assist (IMA)]], producing 73 net [[horsepower]](hp)
* Idle stop feature
* Front wheel drive
* Available [[Continuously Variable Transmission]] (CVT)
'''Options'''
* Air Conditioning (available with manual transmission)
* Automatic Climate Control (included with [[Continuously Variable Transmission]] (CVT)
* Security System
* In-Dash 6-Disc CD Changer

==Pricing==
The Insight retails for MSRP $19,330 and carries a $550 delivery fee, giving it a base price of $19,880. The U.S. [[Hybrid Tax Credits|Federal Income Tax Credit]] is $1,460 for CVT models purchased prior to December 31, 2010.

<table border=1 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#ccccc>
<td colspan=2>
'''Trim'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=ffffcc>
<td>
3-cylinder Manual
</td>
<td>
3-cylinder CVT
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan=2 bgcolor=#ccccc>
'''Price'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#66ccff>
<td colspan=2>
''MSRP''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$19,330
</td>
<td>
$21,530
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#66ccff>
<td colspan=2>
''Invoice''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$18,072
</td>
<td>
$20,123
</td>
</tr>
</table>

==Gas Mileage==
The Insight can attain an [http://hondanews.com/CatID2057?mid=2005092167205&mime=asc EPA] rating of 60 MPG City and 66 MPG Highway when equiped with the 5-speed manual transmission. Actual mileage may vary. Some owners have seen averages of 54.7 MPG with their [http://www.greenhybrid.com/compare/mileage/honda-insightcvt.html Honda Insight CVT] and 63.2 MPG with the [http://www.greenhybrid.com/compare/mileage/honda-insightmanual.html Honda Insight 2WD Manual].

<table border=1 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#ccccc>
<td colspan=2>
'''Trim'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=ffffcc>
<td>
3-cylinder Manual
</td>
<td>
3-cylinder CVT
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan=2 bgcolor=#ccccc>
'''Engine'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
1.0L [[Overhead Camshafts|SOHC]] VTEC
</td>
<td>
1.0L [[Overhead Camshafts|SOHC]] VTEC
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan=2 bgcolor=#ccccc>
'''MPG (City/Highway)'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
60/66
</td>
<td>
57/56
</td>
</tr>
</table>

==Reliability==

==Safety==
* [[Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS)|Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)]]
* Dual front [[Airbag|air-bags]] (SRS)
* Front and rear crumple zones
* Front [[Seatbelt Pretensioners|3-Point safety belts with automatic tensioning]] system
* 4 Star National Highway Traffic Safety Agency [http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/ NHTSA] crash test rating

==Photos==
[[Image:insightsteering.jpg|300px|right|]]
[[image:Insightengine.jpg|thumb|right|300px|Honda Insight Engine]]
[[Image:insighthatch.jpg|300px|right|]]

==Colors==
'''Exterior'''
* Citrus Yellow (discontinued after U.S. rookie year production run of 1,250)
* Navy Blue Pearl
* New Formula Red
* Silverstone Metallic

'''Interior'''
* [http://automobiles.honda.com/tools/buildandprice/frame.asp?step=trims&VIEW=34FRONT&SERIES=4&YEAR=2006&SERIESNAME=Insight&RURL=http%3A%2F%2Fautomobiles.honda.com%2Fmodels%2Fspecifications_full_specs.asp%3FModelName%3DInsightlink Beige]

==Main Competitors==
* [[Honda Civic Hybrid]]
* [[Toyota Prius]]

==Unique Attributes==
The [[Honda]] Insight is a mild hybrid that utilizes "lean burn" technology to earn high mileage at high speeds. Lean burn relies on two spark plugs per cylinder, and is very difficult to engage. Without using lean burn mode, most drivers will not experience EPA ratings of up to 70 mpgs in the US for the early models.

Although it beats the Prius on the highway, it cannot run on its electric motor alone. Both have the ability to automatically turn off its gasoline engine when the vehicle is at a stop (and restart it upon movement). Since it is more powerful (10 kW) than most starters of conventional cars, the Insight's electric motor can start the engine nearly instantaneously.

The Insight is also hand made from Aluminum at the plant that produces the S2000. It utilizes plastic bumpers and a teardrop shape designed to reduce drag. It glides through the air with a .25 cd, equivalent to a fighter jet.

==Resale Values==
Resale values for the Insight appear to be strong as evidenced by the pre-owned prices commanded by dealers and owners selling privately. A combination of low sales volumes and the halo effect of the [[Honda]] brand name could be associated with increasing resale values.

<table border=1 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#ccccc>
<td colspan=7>
'''Year Model'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=ffffcc>
<td>
2006
</td>
<td>
2005
</td>
<td>
2004
</td>
<td>
2003
</td>
<td>
2002
</td>
<td>
2001
</td>
<td>
2000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan=7 bgcolor=#ccccc>
'''Resale Values'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$21,530
</td>
<td>
$19,850
</td>
<td>
$18,225
</td>
<td>
$15,950
</td>
<td>
$13,600
</td>
<td>
$12,025
</td>
<td>
$10,125
</td>
</tr>
</table>

==Design Quirks and Oddities==
The stand alone two-seater hatchback [[Hybrid Cars|hybrid]] offered in the North American market, the Insight offers a certain exclusiveness. The narrow rear track of the car gives it a unique teardrop silhouette.

==Criticisms==
Having only two seats could turn off prospective green thinking buyers, as this vehicle is a very focused effort from [[Honda]].

==Awards==
* The [[Honda]] Insight was the winner of the '''IntelliChoice''' 2006 "''Best Overall Value of the Year''" in the subcompact class.
* The Insight also had the ''Highest EPA Fuel Economy Rating'' in 2005, and was named ''Best Fuel Economy'' for 2006 by '''Kiplinger's'''.

For a complete list of accolades and honors, visit the official [[Honda]] Insight [http://automobiles.honda.com/models/model_overview.asp?ModelName=Insight website]

==Specifications==
* [[Continuously Variable Transmission]] (CVT) or 5-speed manual transmission
* 1.0L three-cylinder aluminum-alloy gasoline engine with 67 [[HP|horsepower]] and 66 lb-ft of torque
* 144V electric motor with 14 [[HP|horsepower]] at 3000 rpm
* [[Regenerative Braking]] System
* Ni-MH battery pack
* Digital fuel mileage indicator
* Remote entry system
* Immobilizer theft-deterrant system
* Electrically assisted rack-and-pinion steering
* 14" light alloy wheels
* [[Low Rolling Resistance Tires]]
* Rear fender skirts and teardrop shape aid to give a low coefficient of aerodynamic drag (Cd) of 0.25
* Heat-rejecting green-tinted [http://hondanews.com/CatID2052?mid=2005092168375&mime=asclink glass]

==Current Generation: (2000–2006)==
[[Image:J-VX.jpg|frame| '''J-VX''']]
[[Image:EV Plus.jpg|frame| '''EV Plus''']]
[[Image:Insight impression.jpg|frame| '''Insight impression''']]

The Insight is very much the culmination of earlier design studies and engineering test mule vehicle experiments. The design is very much renascent of the J-VX Concept Study of 1997, combined with [[Honda]]'s research into electric propulsion, which resulted in the development of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_EV_Plus EV Plus]. A lease program was first launched in Japan in 1997 and followed in the United States for 1999 with 300 units offered. The EV Plus battery pack technology has been revised into the Integrated Motor Assist powertrain you see today. It is the marriage of the Nickel Metal Hydride batteries used in the EV Plus study, coupled to the a revised version of the IMA assist first developed for the J-VX study. The IMA powertrain, as introduced with the J-VX, was originally developed with an ultra-capacitor. In the J-VX, this ultra-capacitor was used instead of the Insight's battery pack for energy storage. Concerns over crash test performance prevented this from reaching production however. The ultra-capacitor was in a precarious position inside the J-VX, mounted ahead of the rear axle and very close to the gas tank. In addition, capacitors have an added downside of losing their charge relatively quickly, which would have compromised efficiency in typical everyday traffic scenarios.

==External links==
* [http://automobiles.honda.com/models/model_overview.asp?ModelName=Insight Honda Insight - Official Site]
* [http://estore.honda.com/ext_html/honda-insight-accessories.htm Honda Insight Accessories - Official Site]
* [http://www.GreenHybrid.com GreenHybrid.com]
* [http://www.MixedPower.com MixedPower.com]
* [http://www.insightcentral.org InsightCentral.org: The Independent Honda Insight Website]

This page uses content from Wikipedia; see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Insight Honda Insight], which includes these [http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Honda_Insight&action=history contributors].