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better hard sales data than expectations. deleted: In 2006, Honda CEO Fukui expects the second generation Insight to reach worldwide sales of about 200,000 "within about two years after sales start".
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{{Unreferenced section|date=November 2010}}
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Honda chose a 5-door hatchback configuration for the latest Insight. The wedge-shaped body assists aerodynamics and reduces drag for improved fuel economy. The 5-passenger accommodations enhance marketability and the overall vehicle shape, as Honda puts it, is “clearly identifiable as a hybrid.”
Honda chose a 5-door hatchback configuration for the latest Insight. The wedge-shaped body assists aerodynamics and reduces drag for improved fuel economy. The 5-passenger accommodations enhance marketability and the overall vehicle shape, as Honda puts it, is “clearly identifiable as a hybrid.”

{{quote|text=The reason we chose a five-door hatchback was that we wanted the car to be popular in Europe. American Honda – the biggest market – asked us to build a car with a boot, but we rejected that idea, because to compete with other green cars and sell more in Europe, it had to be a five-door hatchback. Of course, aerodynamically it is also a more favourable shape.|sign=Yasunari Seki, Honda Insight Project Leader|source=<ref>http://www.themotorreport.com.au/50606/2011-honda-insight-vti-and-vti-l-model-information</ref>}}


The Insight's exterior design merges design cues from both the first generation Insight (the tapered tail and triangular taillights) and Honda’s production hydrogen fuel cell vehicle, the FCX Clarity (the low hood, six-point front grille, and wedge-shaped profile).
The Insight's exterior design merges design cues from both the first generation Insight (the tapered tail and triangular taillights) and Honda’s production hydrogen fuel cell vehicle, the FCX Clarity (the low hood, six-point front grille, and wedge-shaped profile).

Revision as of 08:25, 27 November 2010

Honda Insight
2010 Honda Insight LX (US)
Overview
ManufacturerHonda
Production1999–2006
2008–present
Model years2000–2006
2010–
AssemblySuzuka, Mie, Japan
Body and chassis
ClassSubcompact car (2000–2006)
Compact car (2010–present)
Body style3-door hatchback (2000–2006)
5-door hatchback (2010–present)
LayoutFront-engine, front-wheel drive

The Honda Insight is a hybrid electric vehicle manufactured by Honda and the first production vehicle to feature Honda's Integrated Motor Assist system. The first-generation Insight was produced from 1999 to 2006 as a three-door hatchback.[1][2]

Honda introduced the second-generation Insight to its home market of Japan in February 2009. On March 24, 2009, the new Insight went on sale in the United States.[3] At $19,800 as a five-door hatchback it is the least expensive hybrid available in the US.[4] The Insight was launched in April 2009 as the most affordable hybrid on the market with a starting price from £15,490 (otr), which was more than £2,000 lower than other hybrids, and became the best selling hybrid in the U.K.[5][6] Honda's Insight, billed as the cheapest gas-electric hybrid on the market, ranked as the top-selling vehicle in Japan for April 2009, the first time a hybrid has clinched that spot.[7] During its first twelve months after first available in the Japanese market, the second-generation Insight sold 143,015 units around the world.[8]

First generation (2000–2006)

First generation (ZE1)
First generation Honda Insight
Overview
ProductionDecember 1999–September 2006
Model years2000–2006
AssemblySuzuka, Mie, Japan
Body and chassis
ClassSubcompact car
Body style3-door hatchback
Powertrain
EngineHonda Hybrid System
Gasoline: 1 L ECA series I3 (995 cc (60.7 cu in)) lean-burn 12-valve SOHC
67 hp (50 kW)
Electric: 144 V
10 kW (13 hp)
ULEV/SULEV
Transmission5-speed manual
CVT (2001–2006)
Dimensions
Wheelbase2,400 mm (94 in)
Length3,945 mm (155.3 in)
Width1,695 mm (66.7 in)
Height1,355 mm (53.3 in)
Curb weightManual w/o AC 838 kg (1,847 lb)
Manual w/ AC 852 kg (1,878 lb)
CVT w/ AC 891 kg (1,964 lb)
Chronology
SuccessorHonda Insight (second generation)
Honda CR-Z

History

Based on the Honda J-VX concept car unveiled at the 1997 Tokyo Motor Show, the Insight was first introduced in Japan in November 1999 [9] and was the first production vehicle to feature Honda's Integrated Motor Assist system. In the following month, December 1999, Insight became the first hybrid available in North America, beating Toyota's Prius by seven months.[10] It featured optimized aerodynamics and a lightweight aluminum structure to maximize fuel efficiency and minimize emissions.

Design

Honda Insight rear

The Honda Insight was a subcompact hatchback 3,945 mm (155.3 in) in length with a wheelbase of 2,400 mm (94.5 in) a height of 1,355 mm (53.3 in) and a width of 1,695 mm (66.7 in). The Insight was only available as a two-seater. Only three different trims were available: a manual transmission without air-conditioning, a manual transmission with automatic climate-control system, and a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with automatic climate-control system. Although produced until 2006, the only major change was the introduction of a trunk mounted, front controlled, multiple CD changer.

One key in increasing the vehicle's fuel efficiency was reducing the mass via the extensive use of aluminum and plastic. Honda built the Insight with aluminum front brake calipers and rear brake drums; the fuel tank was plastic; the engine mounts were aluminum; and the exhaust was a small, thin wall pipe.[11] The Insight weighed 1,847 lb (838 kg) in manual transmission form or 1,964 lb (891 kg) with CVT and air conditioning. The combination of materials and design gave the Insight body structure 13 percent more bending strength and 38 percent more torsional rigidity than a comparably-sized steel body, despite weighing 40 percent less.

The New York Times wrote that the Insight's styling "suggested Popeye's pal, Olive Oyl, in her ankle-length dress. The rear fender skirts seemed frumpy."[12]

Technology

Honda Insight IMA

The gasoline engine is a 67 hp (50 kW; 68 PS), 1-liter, ECA series 3-cylinder unit providing lean burn operation with an air-to-fuel ratio that can reach 25.8 to 1.[13] The electrical motor assist adds another 10 kW (13 hp) and a maximum of 25 pound-feet (33.9 Nm) of torque when called on. It also acts as a generator during deceleration and braking to recharge the vehicle's batteries, and as the Insight's starter motor.[14] (This both improves fuel efficiency and also extends the lifetime and fade resistance of the brakes, without adding unsprung weight). When the car is not moving, for example, at a stop light, the engine shuts off. The digital displays on the dashboard display fuel consumption instantaneously. On the manual transmission up and down arrows suggest when to shift gears. The Insight uses the first generation of Honda's Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) hybrid technology. (The next generation, used in the Honda Civic Hybrid, is much more space-efficient.) The Insight has a 3-cylinder 1.0 L (61 cu in) engine and an ultrathin (about 2.5 inches) brushless 10-kW electric motor located on the crankshaft.[11] The engine utilizes lightweight aluminum, magnesium, and plastic to minimize weight.[14] Located behind the seats are a series of commercial grade "D" sized NiMH batteries wired to provide a nominal 144 V DC. During heavy acceleration, up to 100 amps are pulled from the NiMH batteries as the electric motor provides additional power; during deceleration, the motor acts as a generator and recharges the batteries using a process called regenerative braking, charging them with up to 50 Amps of current. A computer control module regulates how much power comes from the internal combustion engine, and how much from the electric motor; in the CVT variant, it also finds the optimal gear ratio. Dashboard gauges monitor the current battery status, instantaneous fuel consumption, and mode of the electric motor — standby, engine assist or charging the batteries. High pressure, low rolling resistance tires and the use of low viscosity "0W-20" synthetic oil both enhance fuel economy.

The original Insight had a conventional manual transmission. Starting with the 2001 model, a CVT variant of the Insight was available; the CVT is similar to that used in the Honda Civic Hybrid and the Honda Logo. A feature shared by the two hybrids (and now appearing in others) is the ability to automatically turn off the engine when the vehicle is at a stop (and restart it upon movement). Since it is more powerful than most starters of conventional cars, the Insight's electric motor can start the engine nearly instantaneously. The Integrated Motor Assist is run by an "Intelligent Power Unit (IPU)", a desktop computer-sized box. The Intelligent Power Unit, the Power control Unit, the Electronic Control Unit, the vehicle's batteries, converter and a high-voltage inverter are all located under the cargo floor of the vehicle, behind the seats.[11]

To maximize fuel efficiency, the Insight is very aerodynamic. It has a coefficient of drag of 0.25, one of the lowest of any marketed automobile. The Insight is available with a manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission. A traditional transmission shifts between a fixed set of engine-to-wheel ratios; however, a CVT allows for an infinite set of ratios between its lowest gear and its highest. The CVT-equipped Insight was classified as a super-low emissions vehicle.[15] The Insight features low emissions: the California Air Resources Board gave the 5-speed model a ULEV rating, and the CVT model earned a SULEV rating – 5-speed model charismatic lean-burn ability was a trade-off for increased efficiency at the expense of slightly higher NOx emissions.

Manufacturing

The Insight was assembled at the Honda factory in Suzuka, Japan,[16] where the Honda NSX and the Honda S2000 were also assembled. The Insight and the NSX are aluminum-bodied, while the S2000 employs a steel body.

At the 2003 Tokyo Motor Show, Honda introduced the concept car Honda IMAS, an extremely fuel-efficient and lightweight hybrid car made of aluminum and carbon fiber, which was perceived by most observers to be the future direction where the Insight is heading.

Having aluminum body and frame, Insight was an expensive car to produce and was never designed for high-volume sales.[17] Instead it was designed to be a real world test car for hybrid technology and a gauge to new consumer driving habits. With an aerodynamic fuel-saving shape similar to Audi A2, and some unconventional body colors it was a bit more than mainstream car buyers could handle, preferring more conservative styles.[18] Production halt was announced in May 2006, along with plans to replace Insight with a new hybrid car, smaller than the eighth generation Civic, but not earlier than in 2009.[2] Ahead of this announcement, Honda stopped selling Insight in the UK, for example, as early as December 2005.[19]

To fill in the market niche void, in 2002 Honda rolled out a hybrid version of the Honda Civic – Honda Civic Hybrid, followed by Toyota's relaunch of the Prius in 2003.

Sales

Total global sales for the first generation Insight were 17,020 units.[9]

US market

The Insight was the first mass-produced hybrid automobile sold in the United States, achieving 70 miles per US gallon (3.4 L/100 km; 84 mpg‑imp) per its then current United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) highway rating.[20] Insight was introduced in US at a base price of just US$18,880.[14] Other hybrids soon followed, with the Toyota Prius arriving in June 2000.

Fuel efficiency

The car remained the most fuel efficient machine available in the U.S. while it was produced and is still the leader of any current mass market car.[20] The Insight earned an EPA fuel efficiency estimate of 70 miles per US gallon (3.4 L/100 km; 84 mpg‑imp) in highway driving, 61 mpg‑US (3.9 L/100 km; 73 mpg‑imp) city. With air conditioning it was 66 mpg‑US (3.6 L/100 km; 79 mpg‑imp)/60 mpg‑US (3.9 L/100 km; 72 mpg‑imp). With a CVT it was 57 mpg‑US (4.1 L/100 km; 68 mpg‑imp)/56 mpg‑US (4.2 L/100 km; 67 mpg‑imp). Insight aficionados who are "hypermilers" compete to eke out as many miles as possible from a tank.[21]

Upon the Insight's release, Honda challenged several automotive magazines to a competition[20] to see who could obtain the best fuel efficiency on the 195-mile (314 km) drive from Columbus, Ohio to Detroit. The contest was won by Car and Driver magazine, which rigged a box behind a Ford Excursion, and had the Insight drive within the confines of the box. With much less wind resistance, the Insight made the trip with a fuel consumption of 121.7 miles per US gallon (1.933 L/100 km; 146.2 mpg‑imp), while averaging 58 miles per hour (93 km/h). A two-year test of an Insight with air conditioning, driven 40,000 miles (64,000 km), averaged 48 miles per US gallon (4.9 L/100 km; 58 mpg‑imp).[20]

Usage incentives

Under the Energy Policy Act of 2005 in the United States, the Honda Insight was eligible for a US$1,450 tax credit.[22]

In California, the state with the most-stringent fuel economy standards, the manual-transmission Insight was rated as an ultra-low-emission vehicle and the CVT transmission was rated Super-ultra-low-emission vehicle.[23]

Cars registered in the UK after 2001 qualified for free road tax because of their low CO2 emissions (2000 registered cars would be taxed on the lower rate of the old system based on engine size). As a Hybrid the Insight also qualifies for an exemption from the London Congestion Charge.

Replacement battery pack

As of June 2008 in the U.S., according to Honda, there are fewer than 200 battery failures beyond warranty coverage out of more than 100,000 hybrids sold.[24]

Honda has extended the US warranties on the hybrid battery pack and controlling computers from the original 8 years or 80,000 miles (130,000 km) to 10 years from the in-service date or 150,000 miles (240,000 km). In addition, as of May 2008, as part of a class-action suit settlement, Honda had extended the warranty of the batteries on 2002–2006 cars to 157,500 miles (253,500 km).[citation needed] On June 1, 2008, Honda dropped the cost of replacement battery for Insight from US$3,400 to US$1,968. There is an additional installation charge by dealers of around US$900 at that time.[24] As of February 2010, out of warranty battery replacement for 2000-2006 Honda Insights requires updates to the BCM (battery charge computer) and the MCM (electric motor control computer) unless they have the current versions. The MCM can be reprogrammed in 2002–2006 cars, but must be replaced on 2000–2001 cars. The BCM is not reprogrammable and must be replaced. This increases the cost of the battery replacement by approximately US$800 for 2002–2006 vehicles and US$1700 for 2000–2001 Insights. Reported price quotes from dealers range from a low of US$3600 (2002–2006) or US$4500 (2000–2001) to a high of US$5900.

As of 2008, independent mechanics have been known to replace Insight batteries with either Prius sub-packs or Civic Hybrid subpacks. 2003–2005 Civic Hybrid subpacks are direct replacements for 2000–2006 Insight subpacks. A US$400 used NiMH battery from another more mass produced HEV (2003–2005 Honda Civic Hybrid) can be used to build a replacement Insight battery pack. Other independent mechanics have been reconditioning their old Insight battery packs to correct wear and tear issues. Reconditioning allows correction of some issues at lower cost than rebuilding a replacement pack from other used packs.[citation needed]

Recalls

On July 26, 2002 Honda recalled 375 MY 2002 Insights due to improperly welded air bag modules.

Second generation (2010–)

Second generation (ZE2)
2010 Honda Insight EX
Overview
Also calledHonda Insight Hybrid
Model years2010–
AssemblySuzuka, Mie, Japan
Body and chassis
ClassCompact
Body style5-door hatchback
RelatedHonda Jazz/Fit II
Honda City V
Honda CR-Z
Honda Freed
Powertrain
EngineHonda Hybrid System with Eco Assist
Gasoline: 1.3 L LDA series I4 (1,339 cc (81.7 cu in)) 8-valve SOHC i-VTEC
98 hp (73 kW) @ 5800 rpm
123 lb⋅ft (167 N⋅m) @ 1000–1700 rpm
Electric: DC brushless motor
13 hp (9.7 kW) @ 1500 rpm
58 lb⋅ft (79 N⋅m) @ 1000 rpm
ULEV/AT-PZEV
TransmissionCVT
Dimensions
Wheelbase2,552 mm (100.5 in)
Length4,390 mm (173 in)
Width1,695 mm (66.7 in)
Height1,425 mm (56.1 in)
Curb weight1,237 kg (2,727 lb)
Chronology
PredecessorHonda Insight (2000–2006)
Honda Civic Hybrid
Honda Insight Concept

In 2009, Honda introduced its second-generation Insight based on an all-new, 5-passenger, 5-door, dedicated hybrid platform, which was also later used for the Honda CR-Z. The concept version of the Insight hatchback hybrid electric vehicle had made its public debut at the 2008 Paris Motor Show.[25][26] and its North American debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show.[27] In the US, the new Insight is classified as a compact car based on its interior volume.

Honda Insight interior

Fuel efficiency

Estimated fuel efficiency according to the U.S. EPA testing methodology is: City 40 mpg‑US (5.9 L/100 km; 48 mpg‑imp), Highway 43 mpg‑US (5.5 L/100 km; 52 mpg‑imp), Combined 41 mpg‑US (5.7 L/100 km; 49 mpg‑imp).[28]

Honda UK state that the official UK fuel efficiency data for the Insight SE is: Urban 61.4 mpg‑imp (4.60 L/100 km; 51.1 mpg‑US), Extra urban 67.3 mpg‑imp (4.20 L/100 km; 56.0 mpg‑US), Combined 64.2 mpg‑imp (4.40 L/100 km; 53.5 mpg‑US) and the CO2 emissions rating is: 101 g/km,[29] putting it in the second lowest UK road tax band.[30]

Performance

Car and Driver magazine performed a comparison between the 2010 Honda Insight and the 2010 Toyota Prius.[31] In this test, the Insight achieved 0-60 mph in 10.3 seconds (Prius, 10.0 seconds), the quarter mile in 17.9 seconds @ 78 mph (Prius, 17.6 @ 79 mph), and 70-0 mph braking in 181 feet (Prius, 182 feet). The Insight's average fuel economy during a 600-mile controlled evaluation was 38 mpg (Prius, 42 mpg). Overall, Car and Driver selected the Insight as their preferred vehicle due to its "fun-to-drive" qualities including superior handling, steering, braking, and paddle-shifted transmission.

History

The 2010 Honda Insight was specifically designed to make hybrid technology more affordable to a wide range of buyers. Departing from the first generation Insight’s two-seater configuration, the 2010 Insight is a 5-passenger, 5-door dedicated hybrid vehicle that includes the fifth generation of Honda’s Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) hybrid powertrain.

Design

Honda chose a 5-door hatchback configuration for the latest Insight. The wedge-shaped body assists aerodynamics and reduces drag for improved fuel economy. The 5-passenger accommodations enhance marketability and the overall vehicle shape, as Honda puts it, is “clearly identifiable as a hybrid.”

The reason we chose a five-door hatchback was that we wanted the car to be popular in Europe. American Honda – the biggest market – asked us to build a car with a boot, but we rejected that idea, because to compete with other green cars and sell more in Europe, it had to be a five-door hatchback. Of course, aerodynamically it is also a more favourable shape.

— Yasunari Seki, Honda Insight Project Leader, [32]

The Insight's exterior design merges design cues from both the first generation Insight (the tapered tail and triangular taillights) and Honda’s production hydrogen fuel cell vehicle, the FCX Clarity (the low hood, six-point front grille, and wedge-shaped profile).

The interior of the new Insight includes a variation of the two-tier instrument panel first introduced on the 2006 Honda Civic. In this arrangement, a digital speedometer is mounted high on the instrument panel within the driver’s normal line-of-site for ease of visibility. An analog tachometer, fuel gauge, hybrid assist gauge, and Multi-Information Display are housed in the lower tier.

Powertrain

The new Insight includes Honda’s fifth and latest generation of its Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) hybrid system. This system mates an internal combustion engine with an electric motor mounted directly to the engine’s crankshaft between the engine and transmission. Honda states that this configuration is less complex, lower cost, and compact enough to accommodate a wide range of vehicle sizes when compared to competing hybrid powertrains. Honda has used previous generations of this IMA system on all of its production hybrid vehicles including the original Insight, Civic Hybrid, and Accord Hybrid. Advanced development has allowed the Insight’s IMA system to be 19 percent smaller and 28 percent lighter than the previous generation IMA used in the existing Civic Hybrid.

The Insight’s IMA includes a high-efficiency, lightweight, low-friction 1.3-liter SOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine and it is rated for 98 hp @ 5800 rpm and 123 lb-ft of torque from 1000-1700 rpm. The high torque at low rpm is made possible by the electric motor which contributes up to 13 hp @ 1500rpm and 58 lb-ft of torque @ 1000rpm to the powertrain, assisting in acceleration and some steady state cruising situations at low-to-mid vehicle speeds. The motor acts as a generator during braking, steady cruising, gentle deceleration and coasting in order to recharge the IMA battery. The motor also serves as the engine starter, quickly spinning the engine to idle speed after Idle Stop and during normal vehicle starting. The system will automatically switch to a back-up, conventional 12-volt starter to start the engine if the IMA system is disabled or if the car is started at extreme cold temperatures. As an additional safety feature, Honda’s hybrid configuration allows the car to operate like a conventional, gas-engine vehicle even if the IMA hybrid-electric motor system is completely disabled.

The Insight’s Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) provides infinite ratios to keep the engine operating within its most efficient range. Forward gear ratios are infinitely variable between 3.172-0.529 and reverse gear ranges from 4.511~1.693. Final drive is 4.20:1. On Insight EX models, paddle shifters mounted behind the steering wheel allow the driver to engage a manual shift mode and select from seven simulated gear ratios for full control over acceleration and engine braking. Since the CVT’s gear ratios are continuously variable the system electronically directs the transmission to up- or downshift into pre-determined ratios when the driver taps the shift paddles. In normal driving, the CVT allows the engine and IMA motor to stay in their most efficient operating range thereby providing superior fuel efficiency to that of a conventional automatic transmission with fixed gear ratios. The CVT’s variable gear ratios allow for both quick, initial acceleration and efficient, low-rpm cruising.

In order to allow the powertrain computer to optimize performance under every driving condition, the Insight’s accelerator pedal is a “drive-by-wire” type that uses an electronic position sensor instead of the conventional metal cable that usually connects the pedal to the engine’s throttle body. In the drive-by-wire system, the engine’s throttle body is controlled by the powertrain computer in response to the gas pedal position—allowing the computer to determine the optimal throttle body, fuel, and CVT settings based on the accelerator pedal position and its rate of travel.

IMA battery

The Insight’s IMA is powered by a flat, nickel metal hydride battery pack located below the cargo floor between the rear wheels. The 84 module battery is manufactured by Panasonic and provides a nominal system voltage of 100.8 volts with a nominal capacity of 5.75 ampere-hours.[33] The power density of the modules is 30 percent greater than in the current-generation Civic Hybrid. The battery is recharged automatically by scavenging engine power, when needed, and by regenerative braking when the car is decelerating. The power management electronics, battery modules, and cooling system are all self-contained within the IMA battery pack.

Honda ECO ASSIST System

The new Insight is the first Honda hybrid to feature their Ecological Drive Assist System (ECO ASSIST). This system is designed to help the driver develop and maintain a fuel-efficient driving style. The system monitors and displays the positive or negative effect of a driving style on the vehicle’s fuel economy.

As a visual aid, the background of the Insight’s digital speedometer glows green when the car is being driven in an efficient manner. Somewhat less-efficient driving makes the meter glow blue-green. Aggressive starts and stops that consume extra fuel make the meter glow blue. By observing the color shift of the speedometer background, the driver receives assistance in developing driving habits that typically enhance fuel economy.

In addition, ECO ASSIST includes a dedicated ECON button that enables the driver to initiate a range of functions that increase the fuel economy of the IMA system via a single button press. In ECON mode, the driver trades off a measure of performance for enhanced fuel economy but gains the following advantages:

  • Increases the potential for engaging the Idle Stop feature sooner
  • Operates air conditioning more in recirculation mode
  • Reduces automatic climate control blower fan speed
  • Optimizes throttle angle input and CVT operation
  • Limits power and torque by approximately 4 percent (full responsiveness is provided at wide-open-throttle)

Overall, ECO ASSIST is designed to assist the driver in adopting a balanced approach between efficient highway commuting and efficient city driving. However, the EPA found during fuel economy testing that using the ECO ASSIST mode "registered no effect" on its fuel economy rating. "It relaxes throttle response, so the test driver simply compensates with additional throttle to achieve the required speeds." [34]

Chassis, suspension, and steering

The Insight’s compact chassis is derived from components used in the latest Honda Fit. The structure of the engine compartment and front section of the chassis is almost identical to the Fit’s but with additional enhancements to aid crash protection. From the firewall aft the platform is unique to Insight.

The most significant difference between the Fit and the Insight platform is the position of the fuel tank. Whereas the Fit locates the fuel tank under the front seats (a move designed to free up space for maximum versatility in the Fit’s rear compartment) the Insight positions the fuel tank under the rear seats. This fuel tank location enables the Insight’s hybrid battery pack to be located in the cargo floor below the spare tire, a move that allows folding rear seats, a lower roofline, and a more aerodynamic body shape to assist fuel economy at high speed.

Front and rear suspension components from the Fit are used including MacPherson struts at the front and an H-shaped torsion beam at the rear to keep the load floor low in order to increase luggage capacity. Front and rear stabilizer bars are also installed. On Insight EX models, the 175/65-15 low rolling resistance tires are mounted on very lightweight aluminum rims. Each tire and wheel together weigh only 34 pounds.

The Insight's electrically-assisted, rack-and-pinion steering does not rely on an engine-driven, hydraulic power steering pump as in conventional non-hybrid vehicles. Electric assist improves fuel efficiency (less parasitic drag on the engine) and allows the Insight to steer normally even when the engine is shut off in Idle Stop mode.

The Insight’s hydraulic braking system includes four-channel ABS (to prevent wheel lockup), Electronic Brake Distribution (to improve braking effectiveness under different vehicle loads), and a Creep Aid System (to prevent the car from rolling on a hill when the driver transitions from the brake pedal to the throttle pedal). Also included are Traction Control and Vehicle Stability Assist (the latter system employing an electronic yaw rate/lateral acceleration sensor to detect excessive understeer or oversteer when cornering). A Brake Booster Pressure Monitoring System continuously monitors boost vacuum when the engine is shut off during Idle Stop mode. The front brakes use a single-piston sliding caliper and a one-piece ventilated rotor. The rear brakes are drum-type.

In July 2010, Honda UK announced an update for the Insight to be released in September. The update comprising suspension changes are a response to feedback of the Insight's ride and handling. There are revisions to the recoil rate of the springs, change of the rear camber angles and alterations to the rear suspension brace and adjusting mounts. As a result, Honda promised better ride, handling and stability. Interior changes were also made: dashboard and seat fabric colours have been revised, as have some of the interior plastics, now higher in quality. The air vents received a chrome surround and a silver garnish now adorns the door sills.[35]

Enhanced efficiency air conditioning system

The air conditioning system on the new Insight has an expanded thermodynamic range compared to conventional systems. Unlike the separate low pressure and high pressure refrigerant pipes used in conventional systems, the Insight has its low pressure cold pipe enclosing the high pressure hot refrigerant pipe that allows the cold refrigerant on its way back to the engine bay to cool the warm refrigerant travelling to the cabin. A unique, spiral groove along the outside of the inner pipe increases the surface area and therefore the efficiency of the heat transfer between the outer and inner tubes. This improves the thermal efficiency of the air-conditioning system and, as a result, less effort is required from the compressor, resulting in improved fuel efficiency.

In order to control costs, Honda decided not to include the electric-assist air conditioning compressor used in the Civic Hybrid. The Civic Hybrid's electric-assist allows the air conditioning compressor to continue running (using battery pack power) to maintain cabin temperature when the engine is shut off in Idle Stop mode. Instead, the Insight limits the duration of the Idle Stop mode during air conditioning use and restarts the engine, when needed, to maintain cabin temperature. However, when the Insight's ECON function is engaged, a longer Idle Stop time is invoked for improved fuel efficiency at the expense of rapid cabin cooling.

Multi-information display

The Multi-information display, located in the center of the tachometer, can be toggled through nine different screens of vehicle information including instantaneous fuel economy, hybrid system schematic, trip computer, and ECO Guide. The ECO Guide display includes a real-time graphic that provides a target zone for acceleration and deceleration in order to achieve maximum fuel economy. When the ignition switch is turned off, a summary screen displays a scoring function that encourages drivers to take an interest in developing fuel-efficient driving habits over the long term. In this manner, drivers can earn additional ‘leaves’ on a plant stem when practicing fuel saving strategies. Long-term fuel efficient driving habits ultimately earn the driver a ‘trophy’ graphic.

Sales and prices by country

Honda sold 130,445 Insights worldwide in 2009.[36]

Japan

The new Insight began sales in Japan on February 6, 2009 with prices between ¥1,890,000 and ¥2,210,000.The reception in Japan is overwhelming and exceeds Honda's original forecast of 5,000 monthly sales. This resulted as less availability to overseas markets and Honda has to start production on a second line at its Suzuka factory in mid-June to increase production from 700 units a day.[37] In April 2009, the Honda Insight became the first gas-electric hybrid to be the best-selling vehicle in Japan for the month.[38] After less than eleven months on sale, Honda sold 93,283 Insight in Japan in 2009, ranking it the fifth best-selling car for the year.[39] In March 2010, Honda announced that the new Insight broke through 100,000 sales in Japanese market in just one year after its introduction.[40]

U.S. Honda Insight, shown front, rear, and the hybrid badging.

United States

The car went on sale on March 24, 2009 in the U.S.[3] as a 2010 model with MSRP prices between US$19,800 and US$23,200,[41][42][43] making it the least expensive hybrid vehicle available in the United States.[28]

Within less than ten months from its introduction, Insight total sales for 2009 in the U.S. market were 20,572 units, selling more than the Fusion Hybrid (15,554 units) and the Civic Hybrid (15,119), but behind the Camry Hybrid (22,887 units) and the Toyota Prius (139,682 units).[44] In August 2010 the Insight reached cumulative sales in the U.S. market of 14,145 units, ranking as the third most sold hybrid in 2010 after the Toyota Prius (91,940 units) and the Ford Fusion Hybrid (14,604 units).[45]

Calendar Year American sales
2009 20,572[46]

In October 2009, Consumer Reports named Honda Insight the most reliable vehicle as it scored the highest of any vehicles in predicted reliability, according to its annual vehicles reliability survey.[47]

United Kingdom

The Honda Insight has been on sale from April 4, 2009 and early report said it outsold its competitor by 15 percent. The Insight is exempted from the London congestion charge.[48] Starting from fall 2010, parking sensors are added to ES model and above, furthermore, a top of the range EX model is added with standard leather interior and sat-nav priced at £20,215.[35]

Australia

It is reported that Honda is going to launch Insight in the second half of 2010. Honda Australia is reported to aim at pricing the Insight at below A$30,000, which would means it will be much more affordable than the Toyota Prius that starts at A$39,990.[49] However, the price is contingent on the future strength of the Australian dollar, according to Lindsay Smalley of Honda Australia.[50]

The Netherlands

As of March 2010, Honda has sold 2661 units since the introduction of the Insight in April 2009. Of which, 847 were sold in the first 3 months of 2010. As of January 2010, the Honda Insight is exempt of road tax. Reviews have been mostly positive, praising the low cost, fuel economy, good handling and performance in city driving, while being somewhat critical of the car's performance on the highway and its rear visibility. Particularly impressive is the high vehicle safety rating. The EuroNCAP judged the Insight the second safest car of 2009,[citation needed] just behind the Volkswagen Golf but ahead of its main rival, the Toyota Prius. The sales of the Honda Insight, along with those of the Honda Civic Hybrid, helped Honda achieve their best sales result in the Netherlands since 1989. These good results did not go unnoticed and it has been decided that the official European launch of Honda's next hybrid car, the CR-Z, will take place in the Netherlands.

Other Asian countries

Honda Insight is launched in Korea in October 2010 priced at Won29.5 million (approx. US$ 26,000), making it the lowest priced hybrid car offered by import automakers.[51]

Reception

Second generation Honda Insight engine.

Early reviews praised the Insight's futuristic styling, handling, and price but noted that it was less powerful, less fuel efficient, and less comfortable than other hybrids that are more expensive.[52] The Insight performed well in comparison tests administered by Motor Trend and Car and Driver.[31][53] In their comparison test against the 2010 Toyota Prius, Car and Driver stated "...the Insight proved more visceral, connected, and agile than the Prius. The Insight represents a lot of engineering bang for the buck, and the majority of its dynamics are more satisfying than the Prius’s" citing the benefits of the Insight's firm brake feel, accurate steering, and tight suspension (the latter borrowing heavily from the latest Honda Fit). It did not perform as well in Edmunds or Popular Mechanics tests.[54][55] In Consumer Reports testing the Insight was assigned a low score, stating that it fell short in ride quality, handling, interior noise, acceleration, refinement, rear seat access and rear visibility.[56][57][58]

Autoblog praised it for its fuel economy, tight handling, and good steering feedback, and stated "the Insight is a shockingly fun car to drive in a spirited manner in spite of the comparatively modest thrust available.", but criticized the Insight for its low passenger volume.[59]

Automotive critic Jeremy Clarkson, known for his disdain for hybrid vehicles, criticized the Insight for its continuously variable transmission, engine noise, and build quality. He recognized that the price was low, but concluded that a Volkswagen Golf is a better deal. He remarked that the Insight is "possibly the worst new car money can buy", and awarded it one out of five stars.[60][61]

Edmunds.com praised Insight for improving upon the formula of rival Prius and costing thousands less, but criticized it for excessive road noise, a tight back seat, and buzzy engine under hard acceleration. In addition, they state it "is by far the most enjoyable hybrid hatchback to drive" and praised the ride for being firm, the steering for being relatively responsive, and the seamless integration between the electric and gas motor.[62]

In 2009, Edmunds pitted a Honda Insight against other hybrids like Toyota Prius and Fusion hybrid, a VW Jetta TDI automatic and a MINI Cooper with manual transmission over two days of mixed city and highway driving.[63]

Driving
condition 		2010
Toyota Prius 		2010
Honda Insight 		2009
VW Jetta TDI A6 		2010
Ford Fusion Hybrid 		2009
MINI Cooper M6
Back roads 47.2 44.1 41.2 39.6 38.5
City loop 48.7 43.4 31.6 35.1 30.1
Highway 47.4 38.6 40.6 36.0 33.3
Overall 47.6 42.3 38.1 37.3 34.5
EPA City/Hwy 51/48 40/43 29/40 41/36 28/37

Crash test

Insurance Institute for Highway Safety:[64]

  • Frontal Offset test: Good
  • Side Impact test: Good

Europe NCAP:[65]

  • Awarded stars

Awards and recognition

  • The first generation Insight's engine won the International Engine of the Year award for 2000, and continued to hold the "Sub-1 liter" size category for the next six years.
  • It received the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's 2000 Climate Protection Award.[70]
  • It was named the "Greenest Vehicle" of the year for 2000, 2002, 2003 and 2006 by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE).[71]
  • The Insight was nominated for the North American Car of the Year award for 2001.

See also

References

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