2011 Honda Insight Offers Bargain Hunters a Hybrid Option
The fuel-thrifty hybrid Honda Insight returns largely unchanged for its second year. For those looking for a 40+ mpg vehicle that starts below $20,000, the Insight serves up an enticing package. Review features, specs and pricing for the new 2011 Honda Insight to determine if this hybrid is right for you.
What's New - 2011 Honda Insight
No major changes have been announced for the 2011 Insight. As such, those looking for a deal may be able to save a few bucks by shopping for a used 2010 Honda Insight.
2011 Honda Insight Styling
The Honda Insight looks similar to the perennially best-selling Toyota Prius. However, this is hardly a case of imitation - it just so happens that both cars are designed for maximum aerodynamics. There are plenty of Honda touches throughout that give it a unique style all its own, but its high rear tail and swooping roofline certainly draw comparisons to the slightly more expensive Prius.
Inside, the Insight co-mingles budget materials with high-tech green accouterments. The result is an interior that most reviewers find more than adequate for the price. Front-passenger real estate is competitive for the class. Features like telescoping steering wheel and height-adjustable driver's seat help most body builds achieve maximum comfort. The rear seat, on the other hand, is a bit on the small side when compared to the competition. At 15.9 cubic feet, cargo room is competitive.
View more Honda Insight photos.
2011 Honda Insight Performance
The 2011 Insight delivers a maximum of 40 mpg in the city and 43 mpg on the highway. To achieve those numbers, drivers will need to keep the vehicle in "Econ Mode" - a mode that reduces engine performance and minimizes unnecessary fuel burning. For a more spirited drive, owners can opt to switch out of Econ Mode - a decision that will result in fuel consumption around 30Â mpg.
The Insight's lone engine option is a 1.3-liter i-VTEC four-cylinder. Mated to an electric motor, total power comes in at 98 hp. When necessary, this engine is good enough to provide adequate acceleration and cornering.
A unique performance feature available on the Insight is something called Eco Assist. Through a variety of tools, this feature is designed to help drivers maximize fuel efficiency. For example, the background color of the speedometer changes color based on fuel performance. Tools to track average fuel efficiency over previous trips are also available.
Review full Honda Insight specifications.
2011 Honda Insight Safety
Standard safety features for the Insight include anti-lock brakes, front airbags, front-side airbags and side curtain airbags. Safety hounds will likely want to upgrade to an Insight EX, which also boasts stability control and traction control. In crash tests performed by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the Honda Insight earned a best-possible overall score of "Good."
2011 Honda Insight
Prices and Features
The Honda Insight comes with a base MSRP of $19,800. In comparison, the Toyota Prius starts around $22,800. Also note that the all-new 2011 Honda CR-Z hybrid is due out later in the year with an expected price tag of $19,200.
Standard features available on all Insights include automatic climate control, full power accessories, height-adjustable driver's seat, four-speaker stereo, CD player and auxiliary input. The upper-tier EX model adds cruise control, variable intermittent wipers, side-mirror turn signals, steering-wheel paddle shifters and upgrade stereo with six speakers and a USB port. Add in an optional navigation system, and you'll hit the price ceiling for the Insight - $23,100.
Find a 2011 Honda dealer near you.