New 2010 Honda Insight

Featuring a Prius-like design and outstanding fuel economy, the all-new 2010 Honda Insight is not only the least expensive hybrid on the market, but a fun little car with loads of personality.

After bursting onto the North American scene in 2000, the Honda Insight is back and better than ever with a remarkable 40 mpg in the city and 43 mpg on the highway. The Insight is available in two trims – LX and EX – and pairs a 1.3-liter, 98-horsepower 4-cylinder i-VTEC engine with a 10-kilowatt electric motor and nickel metal hydride battery for full, hybrid functionality. Honda’s Ecological Drive Assist System or Eco Assist allows you to control various systems that affect fuel economy such as idle stop duration, air-conditioning and cruise control, in order to maximize your mileage. The speedometer turns from blue to green based on how efficiently you are driving, while the Eco Guide display lets you earn five digital plants with leaves that grow if you drive green enough. Basically, the Insight will let you know what you can do to be as efficient as possible.

When it comes to looks, the Insight resembles the Prius, but has a sleeker, sharper exterior with sparkling projector-beam halogen headlights. On the interior, the dashboard and gauges seem video game-esque. Honda’s Satellite-Linked Navigation System with voice recognition, Bluetooth connectivity and USB port are optional, while a 160-watt AM/FM/CD audio system with either four or six speakers, Radio Data System and MP3 auxiliary jack are standard. The Insight seats four comfortably (five is a bit cramped) and includes a folding backseat that extends to the cargo area.

When it comes to safety, the Insight features side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags and dual-stage, dual-threshold front airbags. Antilock disc/drum brakes, a tire pressure monitoring system and Electronic Brake Distribution come standard. An electronic stability system with traction control is available on the EX.

At a time when driving green costs a lot of green, the all-new 2010 Honda Insight is the most affordable and one of the most fuel efficient vehicles on the market.