Honda Insight History
Honda Insight History
Introduction
The Honda Insight, at first glance, is similar to the Toyota Prius, with its high-tail hatchback body and steeply angled windshield. The Insight was the very first hybrid available to the American market, and the first vehicle to feature Honda’s Integrated Motor Assist system. For drivers looking to go green, there’s definitely an appeal to the small size and price tag on the Insight.
Early History
The Honda Insight was first introduced at the 1997 Tokyo Motor Show, and became available in December 1999 for sale in North America. Being the first commercially available hybrid, the Insight was designed specifically in an effort to make hybrid technology affordable to a wide range of buyers.
The Insight featured optimized aerodynamics and a lightweight aluminum structure in an effort to maximize fuel efficiency. The first-generation Insight was produced from 1999 to 2006 as a three-door hatchback design.
Recent History
The 2010 Insight departed from the three-door hatchback design and introduced a five-passenger, five-door design that includes the fifth-generation of Honda’s Integrated Motor Assist hybrid powertrain. In 2011, the 2012 model year was given a face-lift, with updates to the suspension, styling, and interior.
Honda announced in February 2014 that it will discontinue production of the Insight; however, there is no word yet if production of a new Insight will start up again at some point in the future.
Honda Insight Awards
- 2000 International Engine of the Year
- 2000, 2002, 2003, 2006 Greenest Vehicle Award
- 2000 Climate Protection Award
- 2009 Good Design Award