Even though they share the same name, there are more differences than similarities between the new and old Insight. The 1st generation Insight (1999 – 2006) focused solely on getting the most mpg out of a car, whereas the 2nd generation (2010) appears more focused on features. Honda knew well in advance this would be the case and in 2006 they stated that the Insight will be replaced in two years with a more versatile, more advanced hybrid subcompact — though not necessarily one that’s more fuel efficient.
The original insight was the first mass produced hybrid in America, as well as the most fuel-efficient mass produced car. The EPA rated the 1999 Insight at 70 mpg highway and 61mpg city. Apart from hybrid technology, it’s all about weight and aerodynamics. The oh so famous shape of the Insight, the rear-wheel fender skirts, the plastic that covers the bottom of the car, and the wheels with little negative space all contribute to it having virtually no drag (the lowest on a mass-produced car). Low drag means more mpg. Additionally, the Insight is made mostly of aluminum to reduce its weight. Being a compact car and with no backseat also helped make the Insight weigh less than 2000 lbs. Its size, weight, low drag, and small engine / electric motor made the first Insight efficient and clean (emission-wise). Not to mention a fun sporty car to drive.
The 2nd generation on the other hand, sacrificed efficiency for features. Its EPA rated at 40 mpg city and 43 mpg highway, significantly less than its ancestor. The new Insight is still a small aerodynamic car, but not to the extent of the original. The 2010 Insight boasts features like a backseat, larger engine, navigation system, telescopic and tilt steering column, a self parallel parking system, and an eco feature that helps you to drive more efficiently. The nearly solid wheels and rear-wheel fender skirts were removed to make the car more appealing to the mass public. The interior is more modern, although the original does have a futuristic digital display similar to that of the new Insight. Consequently, the extra features add to the weight and the exclusion of some exterior features increased drag. This accounts for the decrease in mileage from the 1st generation. But is it worth it? Would you choose features over efficiency or vice versa? Please comment!
The original insight was the first mass produced hybrid in America, as well as the most fuel-efficient mass produced car. The EPA rated the 1999 Insight at 70 mpg highway and 61mpg city. Apart from hybrid technology, it’s all about weight and aerodynamics. The oh so famous shape of the Insight, the rear-wheel fender skirts, the plastic that covers the bottom of the car, and the wheels with little negative space all contribute to it having virtually no drag (the lowest on a mass-produced car). Low drag means more mpg. Additionally, the Insight is made mostly of aluminum to reduce its weight. Being a compact car and with no backseat also helped make the Insight weigh less than 2000 lbs. Its size, weight, low drag, and small engine / electric motor made the first Insight efficient and clean (emission-wise). Not to mention a fun sporty car to drive.
The 2nd generation on the other hand, sacrificed efficiency for features. Its EPA rated at 40 mpg city and 43 mpg highway, significantly less than its ancestor. The new Insight is still a small aerodynamic car, but not to the extent of the original. The 2010 Insight boasts features like a backseat, larger engine, navigation system, telescopic and tilt steering column, a self parallel parking system, and an eco feature that helps you to drive more efficiently. The nearly solid wheels and rear-wheel fender skirts were removed to make the car more appealing to the mass public. The interior is more modern, although the original does have a futuristic digital display similar to that of the new Insight. Consequently, the extra features add to the weight and the exclusion of some exterior features increased drag. This accounts for the decrease in mileage from the 1st generation. But is it worth it? Would you choose features over efficiency or vice versa? Please comment!