2010 Honda Insight Review

Overview

The 2010 Honda Insight is a uniquely styled, five-door, five-passenger hybrid vehicle. The all-new Insight is packed with the latest hybrid technology and is affordably priced. The LX and EX are the trim levels available on the new Insight. The EX can be equipped with a Navigation system.

Power and performance

A standard Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) system comprising of a 1.3-liter i-VTEC gasoline engine and a 10-kilowatt electric motor powers both trim levels. A continuously variable automatic transmission is standard on both trims. The CVT features paddle shifter system on the EX's engine. The Insight comes with the Ecological Drive Assist System (Eco Assist) to further enhance vehicle operation while providing feedback related to individual driving styles.

Body and styling

The 2010 Honda Insight sports a sleek exterior that blends design elements from the original 2000 Insight's aerodynamic side profile with a front-end styling that resembles the design of the hydrogen-powered FCX Clarity. Body-colored folding power side mirrors; rear window wiper/washer; roof-mounted antenna; two-speed/intermittent windshield wipers; tinted glass; LED brake lights; projector-beam halogen headlights with blue-tinted Bezels; and security system with remote entry are some of the standard features on the 2010 Insight. The inside of the 2010 Insight is spacious and offers more cargo area due to 60/40 split fold-down seats. Automatic climate control; power door locks; power windows with auto-up/down driver's window; reclining front seat backs; tachometer; illuminated steering wheel-mounted MID controls; tilt and telescopic steering column; rear window defroster; reclining front seat backs; driver's seat with manual height adjustment; MP3/auxiliary input jack; radio data system; speed-sensitive volume control; and MP3/Windows Media audio playback capability are standard interior amenities offered on the 2010 Insight.

Safety Features

The 2010 Honda Insight is packed with the latest cutting-edge safety technologies such as anti-lock braking system with electronic brake distribution; front, front-side, and side-curtain airbags; three-point seat belts with front seat automatic tensioning system; driver's and front passenger's active head restraints; adjustable front seat belt anchors; passenger-side side airbag-off indicator; front side airbags with passenger-side occupant position detection system; side-impact door beams; immobilizer theft-deterrent system; vehicle stability assist; tire pressure monitoring system; child-proof rear door locks; and outboard lower anchors and tethers for children.