This has facilitated a shift in concerns over the past 60 years or so. Initially, air quality was a big transportation-related issue. Now, it's moving towards energy security and sustainability. Thus, using less gasoline per trip is a very big deal.
Improvements to the internal combustion powertrain are one way to accomplish this. Extending a vehicle's range by adding an electric drive system is another. That's what hybrid cars are all about.
Originally launched back in 2000, the Honda Insight was a leader and pioneer in the hybrid market. It's back for 2010 with added utility, a slew of improvements, and a very reasonable price.
Approaching the sub $24,000 Insight LX, you'll quickly form one of two opinions about the body. The fascia looks distinct and striking, even futuristic. From some angles, the highly aerodynamic shape and unique proportions are easily appreciated. From others, Insight looks a bit awkward.
The polarizing look instantly brands this hybrid- even if it's giant victory for aerodynamics over sheet-metal musculature.
Utility-boosting efforts are apparent in the sense of roominess and organization throughout the cabin. Storage compartments, cupholders and cubby-holes are scattered around, and the rear seats can split-fold, too. Carrying 3 golf-bags in back is no problem.
Up front, the depthy and futuristic look to the dashboard and instruments convey a cutting edge character. The textures, colors, assembly quality and overall atmosphere seem pleasantly upscale and inviting, too.
Honda's Ecological Drive Assist feature adds an interesting and interactive dimension to the whole experience. A colored ring around the digital speedometer changes between green and blue to advise drivers of their fuel consumption performance in real time. Green is best, and blue indicates room for improvement. It's like a hybrid performance mood ring.
A scoring function uses digital alfalfa sprouts to visualize your level of fuel-saving success. They grow in the driver computer display over time, resulting in an occasional electronic trophy for exceptional performance. Drive gently, and the sprouts grow. Drive hard, and they shrink and die. It's all about coaching drivers to make the best use of the Insight's fuel-saving potential.
There's even a driver-selectable 'ECO' mode for further improvements. Push the green button, and the system numbs the throttle, disables the air conditioning and makes other various changes to maximize mileage.
Despite the Insight's wholesome intentions, there's adequate power and acceleration available. It should zip along as well as any small economy car, though the tiny engine can get noisy when pushed.
The ride is generally well-mannered and notably solid, albeit slightly rough on some surfaces. Steering and brake feel are good, even relatively sporty. Honda's people say it's vital for a car like this one to be fun to drive and very usable, and after a quick road test, it looks like they've accomplished their goal.
Insight goes on sale April 22.
photo:Justin Pritchard
Improvements to the internal combustion powertrain are one way to accomplish this. Extending a vehicle's range by adding an electric drive system is another. That's what hybrid cars are all about.
Originally launched back in 2000, the Honda Insight was a leader and pioneer in the hybrid market. It's back for 2010 with added utility, a slew of improvements, and a very reasonable price.
Approaching the sub $24,000 Insight LX, you'll quickly form one of two opinions about the body. The fascia looks distinct and striking, even futuristic. From some angles, the highly aerodynamic shape and unique proportions are easily appreciated. From others, Insight looks a bit awkward.
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| Utility-boosting efforts are apparent in the sense of roominess and organization throughout the cabin. |
The polarizing look instantly brands this hybrid- even if it's giant victory for aerodynamics over sheet-metal musculature.
Utility-boosting efforts are apparent in the sense of roominess and organization throughout the cabin. Storage compartments, cupholders and cubby-holes are scattered around, and the rear seats can split-fold, too. Carrying 3 golf-bags in back is no problem.
Up front, the depthy and futuristic look to the dashboard and instruments convey a cutting edge character. The textures, colors, assembly quality and overall atmosphere seem pleasantly upscale and inviting, too.
Honda's Ecological Drive Assist feature adds an interesting and interactive dimension to the whole experience. A colored ring around the digital speedometer changes between green and blue to advise drivers of their fuel consumption performance in real time. Green is best, and blue indicates room for improvement. It's like a hybrid performance mood ring.
A scoring function uses digital alfalfa sprouts to visualize your level of fuel-saving success. They grow in the driver computer display over time, resulting in an occasional electronic trophy for exceptional performance. Drive gently, and the sprouts grow. Drive hard, and they shrink and die. It's all about coaching drivers to make the best use of the Insight's fuel-saving potential.
There's even a driver-selectable 'ECO' mode for further improvements. Push the green button, and the system numbs the throttle, disables the air conditioning and makes other various changes to maximize mileage.
Despite the Insight's wholesome intentions, there's adequate power and acceleration available. It should zip along as well as any small economy car, though the tiny engine can get noisy when pushed.
The ride is generally well-mannered and notably solid, albeit slightly rough on some surfaces. Steering and brake feel are good, even relatively sporty. Honda's people say it's vital for a car like this one to be fun to drive and very usable, and after a quick road test, it looks like they've accomplished their goal.
Insight goes on sale April 22.
photo:Justin Pritchard
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