NEW HONDA INSIGHT HYBRID FOR CARS





Earlier today at the Paris Motor Show, Honda officially unveiled the concept version of its upcoming 2010 Insight hybrid. Though labeled a concept, the show car very strongly previews Honda’s upcoming bargain-priced Prius fighter which will be unveiled officially later this fall. In addition to live photos from the show floor, we’ve added several official images to our 2010 Insight gallery. 


“The original Honda Insight pioneered hybrid technology in the U.S. and remains a symbol of Honda’s commitment to innovative technology and fuel efficiency,” said Takeo Fukui, Honda CEO. “This new Insight will break new ground as an affordable hybrid within the reach of customers who want great fuel economy and great value.” 


Priced below the Honda Civic, this Japanese-built hybrid will carry over much of the hatchback styling from the FCX. Inside, the Insight appears similar to the Prius with a flat floor and large space, as well as a futuristic dashboard. 


In addition to recycling the Insight name, Honda will equip the new hybrid with the same 1.3-liter Integrated Motor Assist system found in the current-generation Honda Civic Hybrid. However, further development of the system will cut the IMA’s cost by about 50 percent in the new hybrid. 

Although the new Insight will be loosely based on the Fit, it will measure in at 3 inches longer and 1 inch wider than the Fit, which Honda said will also be available with a hybrid powertrain in the near future. 


One Honda insider told Edmunds the Insight’s fuel economy would be “insane,” with some Japanese sources predicting mileage as high as 71 mpg. Actual mileage will likely be lower when it hits our shores, but should still be impressive. 

And if those lofty fuel-economy numbers weren’t enough to cause an instant waiting list for the new hybrid, the next-generation Insight will list from under $18,500 – undercutting the Prius by thousands of dollars. 


The new Insight is expected to debut at November’s Los Angeles Auto Show and will likely be in North American dealerships by late spring 2010. 

Honda hopes to build 200,000 units annually, with half of that production to be sold in the United States.