Honda Insight

The redesigned third-generation Honda Insight that debuted for 2019 represented another shift in strategy from the car’s two very different previous iterations. This time, the Insight became a compact sedan instead of a hatchback; it shared its basic architecture with the 10th-generation Civic. In fact, the 2019-22 Insight can be considered a Honda Civic Hybrid by another name, with slightly more upscale styling than a Civic inside and out (Honda had discontinued the Civic Hybrid after the 2015 model year). The Insight’s gas-electric hybrid powertrain produced 152 horsepower —  significantly more than the previous-gen Insights — but fuel economy was still rated at an impressive 48-52 mpg combined. Despite its strengths, this Insight didn’t really find a foothold in the market, either; it was discontinued after the 2022 model year. Honda ultimately brought back the Civic hybrid for 2025.

The second-generation Honda Insight that debuted for the 2010 model year was more or less a “me too” Toyota Prius. Instead of a podlike two-seater akin to the first-generation Insight, the new one was a larger compact four-door hatchback that aped the shape of the popular Prius (which was itself redesigned for 2010). The Insight used Honda’s Integrated Motor Assist hybrid system, which combined a 1.3-liter four-cylinder gas engine with an electric motor to deliver 98 horsepower. EPA-estimated fuel economy was 40 mpg city/43 mpg highway — respectable ratings, but they trailed the 2010 Prius’ numbers by around 10 mpg. Despite a mild refresh for 2012, the Insight continued to struggle against more impressive hybrid competitors. Honda discontinued the Insight in the middle of the 2014 model year and the car went into hibernation again before a redesigned version appeared for 2019.

The 2000 Honda Insight was the first hybrid vehicle sold in the U.S., arriving a year before the Toyota Prius. The Insight was a two-seat, two-door hatchback with an aerodynamic teardrop design and powered by a small gas engine and electric motor. Its wind-cheating design (complete with skirted rear-wheel openings) and lightweight, aluminum-intensive construction helped it deliver outstanding fuel economy; it was EPA-rated at 61 mpg city/70 mpg highway. In comparison, the rival Prius was a more conventional-looking four-door sedan that was more practical in terms of occupant and cargo space. The Prius quickly emerged as the market leader, with Toyota able to produce the vehicle in much higher volumes. Honda discontinued the first-generation Insight after the 2006 model year, but after a three-year hiatus, an all-new four-door Insight debuted for 2010.