2010 Insight MPG Boosts Fuel Efficiency

By: Rob Adams
Staff Writer
Published: Oct 10, 2009

Eco Assist Boosts 2010 Honda Insight MPG Rating

The Honda Insight is rated at 40 miles per gallon in the city and 43 on the highway for a combined 41 mpg rating. The Hybrid car uses Eco Assist, which can boost fuel efficiency. Honda has used a improved Honda Integrated Motor Assist IMA system. It also has a 1.3-liter i-VTEC engine.

CEO Takeo Fukui described the Insight debut as the launch of a "new era of affordability," telling a huge crowd at the Detroit auto show, that bringing down the cost at the dealership was the "best approach to advance hybrid technology to mainstream customers."

Currently, in the USA, the Honda Hybrid is the least expensive and the most sporty hybrid car. The Insight's inline four, produces 98 horsepower (HP) and 123 foot pounds of torque, while the electric motor adds 13 HP and 58 foot pounds of torque. With each succeeding generation, the Insight has grown larger, and the midsize model is no exception.

The centerpiece of the new Honda car is the latest Integrated Motor Assist IMA system. This next-generation hybrid system has been used in previous models, but had undergone a major redesign for the 2010 Insight. In comparison to the system used in the Civic Hybrid, the battery pack was improved, resulting in cost savings and reduced weight. Its location also allows for greater cabin space.

The unique Eco Assist system enables increased efficiency for improved performance through two elements. An ECON button which controls certain functions of the car, and a feedback system that lets you monitor your driving performance. Eco Scoring at the conclusion of the drive provides drivers with even more of an incentive to drive green.

You could probably find other hybrids with better mileage than the Honda Insight, but you probably won't get a better price. When you compare the features and standard options, the Honda Insight is about $6,000 less than other hybrid cars. You can't go wrong with this car and several car owners are reporting better mileage than what the EPA estimates are.