2005 Honda Insight Road Test

While the Insight isn't exactly the freshest news as far as gasoline-electric hybrid vehicles go, it's a landmark in its field and in the five years that hybrids have been on the market, it's the only on that features two-doors, two-seats, and a manual transmission. (Photo: Justin Couture, Canadian Auto Press)

While the Insight isn't exactly the freshest news as far as gasoline-electric hybrid vehicles go, it's a landmark in its field and in the five years that hybrids have been on the market, it's the only on that features two-doors, two-seats, and a manual transmission. The advanced technologies it introduced, such as Idle Stop and the high speed starter, have become standard on other gasoline-electric hybrids, plus a few non-hybrid vehicles as well. The research and development path that Honda followed with the Insight also helped to spawn the Civic and Accord hybrids.

During my week long test with the Insight, I realized that to own a hybrid does not mean that one has to make too many compromises, although it's the kind of car that you drive if you want people to know you're doing your part to save the environment, bit by bit. In any case, the Insight was the first drop in the pond, which in its time has rippled into a wave of efficient and clean energy.

Specifications:

Price Range (MSRP): $26,000
Price as Tested (MSRP): $26,000
Body Type: 3-door hatchback
Layout: front engine, FWD
Gasoline Engine: 67 hp, 66 lb-ft of torque, 1.0L, 12-valve SOHC I-4
Electric Motor: 13 hp, 36 lb-ft of torque, 10 kW DC Brushless
Engine (combined): 73-hp, 91 lb-ft of torque, 1.0L, 12-valve SOHC I-4 Gasoline-Electric Hybrid
Transmission: 5-spd manual
Brakes (front/rear): disc/drum, ABS
Curb Weight: 853 kg (1881 lbs)
Tires: 165/65R14
Trunk (trunk + hidden cargo area): 461 + 57 L (16.3 + 2.0 cu ft)
Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 3.8 / 3.3 L/100 km
Observed Fuel Economy: 4.5 L/100 km
Warranty (mo/km): 60/100,000 km comprehensive
Competitors: Honda Civic Hybrid, Toyota Prius, Schwinn Fastback Sport (24-spd), GM-Allison 'Hybrid' Bus
Website: www.honda.ca