2012 Honda Insight

The 2012 Honda Insight ranks 19 out of 41 Affordable Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 32 published reviews and test drives of the Honda Insight, and our analysis of reliability and safety data. The automotive press says the 2012 Honda Insight is designed for shoppers who want a hybrid without an ultra-high price tag. The 2012 Honda Insight is one of the most fuel-efficient affordable small cars on the market, but its high EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings come with a few drawbacks, including an underpowered engine, budget interior and a cramped second row. These traits, however, are characteristic of hybrids and small cars, so as a whole, the automotive press isn’t shocked that the Insight has these issues. The 2012 Honda Insight is available in three trims: base, LX and EX. This year, Honda updated the Insight’s exterior, improved rear-passenger leg- and headroom, tweaked the exterior to improve rear visibility and made some aesthetic adjustments to the center controls. Finally, Honda also fitted LX models with better seat fabric and added more cabin insulation to all models to make the cabin quieter. Honda Insight Performance The Insight has a 1.3-liter four-cylinder engine and a 10-kilowatt electric motor that is paired with a continuously variable transmission. CVTs are designed to improve fuel economy. This powertrain makes only 98 horsepower, so it’s not surprising that many test drivers call the Insight underpowered. All models come with Eco Assist, which helps save even more gas when selected. Drivers say disabling Eco Assist doesn’t help performance. The Insight gets fuel averages of 41/44 mpg city/highway, according to the EPA. Handling and Braking Some test drivers say the 2012 Insight handles like most cars in its class and appreciate that there isn’t much body lean, but one thinks the Insight is a bit sloppy when roads aren’t smooth because the ride is choppy. The Insight has regenerative brakes, which capture the energy produced during braking to recharge the battery. Reviewers don’t mention if this system feels too unnatural compared with traditional brakes, but one does say the brakes are spongy. Honda Insight Interior One of the best aspects of the 2012 Honda Insight’s interior is its Eco Assist system, which tells drivers how fuel-efficient their driving is. Other than that, the interior resembles other hybrid models: It’s good-looking, but has a budget feel, and there isn’t enough passenger space. Honda Insight Safety The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gives the 2012 Insight the highest score of “Good” in front, side and rear crash tests and a lower score of “Acceptable” in roof strength tests. These scores make the Insight an IIHS Top Safety Pick. The Honda Insight comes with anti-lock brakes, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist, traction control, dual-stage front airbags, front side airbags and side-curtain airbags. All of these safety features are normal for the class. Honda Insight Reliability The 2012 Honda Insight has a three-year/36,000-mile new vehicle warranty, a powertrain warranty that's good for five years or 60,000 miles and a five-year, unlimited-mileage warranty for rust damage. All of these warranties are normal for the class. Honda also covers the battery pack with a warranty, but the length of coverage varies.