Hybrid Cars ProsHonda Insight hybrid
The aerodynamically styled, five-passenger, five-door dedicated hybrid vehicle receives extensive changes inside and out for 2012. Exterior changes include a more distinctive grille design that introduces a thin, blue accent bar representative of the Insight's high-tech hybrid identity. Restyled front and rear bumpers, along with changes under the vehicle, contribute to a 2-percent increase in aerodynamic performance. New designs for the headlight and brake light internal reflectors further complete the refreshed look. Insight and Insight LX models have new 15-inch wheel covers and the Insight EX has newly styled 15-inch alloy wheels. Slightly wider 185/60R15 tires, up from 175/65R15 tires on the prior model, contribute to confident driving performance.
The Insight's interior refinements for 2012 include a reconfigured rear seat area for better leg and head room; a redesigned gauge cluster background with a more technically sophisticated appearance; reshaped center-console beverage holders that accommodate larger drinks; and a more supportive front armrest (Insight LX and EX). In the USA, the base configuration costs $18,500 and the top configuration costs $23,690. In Germany, the base configuration costs 20.490 €.
Base configuration
Vehicle stability assist with traction control, tire pressure monitoring system, automatic climate control, LED brake lights.
Top configuration
Cruise control, navigation system, rearview camera, 15'' alloy wheels.
Specification
| Overall length | 4.37 m |
| 1.3 litre gasoline engine + electric motor | 98 hp |
| Battery type | Nickel-Metal hydride |
| 0 - 100 km/h | 11 s |
| Combined fuel consumption | 42 mpg |
| Fuel tank capacity | 10.6 gal |
| Drag coefficient | 0.25 Cd |
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