Honda Insight | A 1.5-liter Model Added Alongside Minor Changes

HONDA INSIGHT

Minor Change Adds 1.5-Liter Model

Honda announced that it will release a minor change to its hybrid vehicle, the "Insight," and add the "Insight Exclusive" model equipped with a 1.5-liter engine, with sales commencing on November 11.

Text by OPENERS

Further Fuel Efficiency Improvements Through Friction Reduction Technologies

The "Insight," a hybrid vehicle launched by Honda in 2009 as a strategic rival to the Toyota Prius, has undergone a minor change. Under the theme of "More Efficient" and "More Smart," the exterior design has been revised, interior quality further enhanced, and a newly developed hybrid system with improved fuel efficiency has been adopted after meticulous refinement of its components.

Regarding the powertrain, while the combination of the 1.3-liter i-VTEC and IMA (Integrated Motor Assist) remains unchanged, enhancements have been made through friction reduction technologies, including changes to piston coatings, and improvements to the CVT.

Furthermore, aerodynamic performance has been improved by altering the bumper shape, and low rolling resistance tires have been adopted, resulting in a fuel efficiency of 31.0 km/L, a 1.0 km/L increase from the previous model. Notably, the vehicle can operate solely on electric power at speeds between approximately 18 to 40 km/h, and an idling stop function is standard.

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The exterior design has been re-engineered with aerodynamics in mind, featuring stylish and wider front and rear bumpers, along with a redesigned front grille, enhancing its presence.

The suspension characteristics have been revised to further improve handling stability and ride comfort. Additionally, the VSA (Vehicle Stability Assist) system, which suppresses unexpected behavioral fluctuations under various conditions, is now standard.

"Exclusive" Model with 1.5-Liter Engine Added

Alongside this minor change, Honda has also introduced the "Insight Exclusive," which features an upgraded engine for a more relaxed driving experience and enhanced interior and exterior luxury.

The Insight Exclusive is powered by a 1.5-liter engine, specially tuned from the one used in the CR-Z. It produces a maximum output of 111 ps, a 23 ps increase compared to the 1.3-liter model, and a maximum torque of 142 Nm, an increase of 21 Nm. Despite the enhanced performance, it achieves an impressive fuel efficiency of 26.5 km/L, befitting a hybrid vehicle.

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The exterior features exclusive front bumpers, side sill garnishes, rear bumper diffusers, and shark fin antennas. The front grille incorporates LED accent lighting to create a premium feel, differentiating it from the 1.3-liter Insight.

The interior boasts a chic and rich texture, befitting the "Exclusive" name, with black wood-grain and high-gloss silver panels.

Additionally, attractive optional features enhance sportiness and convenience. Specifically for the Insight Exclusive, "Lower Skirt Front" and "Lower Skirt Rear" are available. These are feedback from the "Insight Sports Modulo Concept" exhibited at Tokyo Auto Salon 2010. They not only create a sporty styling reminiscent of the concept model but also contribute to reducing air resistance. Other options include leather-like seat covers with seat heaters and "Plasmacluster-equipped LED roof lighting" that decomposes and removes unpleasant odors.

The vehicle prices start at 1.93 million yen for the Insight and 2.08 million yen for the Insight Exclusive, with sales beginning on November 11.