Best Mileage Compact | 2010 Honda Insight

The 2010 Honda Insight has a lot to offer: one of the best mileage compacts, stylish design, hybrid technology, yet an inexpensive car. So is it a good car? Our review will reveal all.


The 2010 Honda Insight goes head to head with the 2010 Toyota Prius. One major factor in Honda's favour is the Insight is several thousand dollars cheaper than the Prius. Drawcards for the Prius are cabin and luggage space (the Prius is a midsized car whereas the Insight is a compact), a more powerful engine and more features.


Lets talk fuel economy.The Honda Insight is one of the best mileage compact cars with a city fuel economy of 40 miles per gallon (U.S.), a highway mileage of 43 and a combined mpg of 41. The Insight is not quite as economical as a Prius, but there's not much in it. CO2 emissions are also a bit higher at 101 g/km, compared to the Prius at 89 g/km.


The Honda Insight has very high fuel mileage for several reasons. The main one of course being its hybrid powertrain. A small 1.3 liter 4 cylinder gasoline engine is teamed with a 10 kilowatt electric motor powered by a 580 Watt Hour nickel metal hydride battery hidden under the rear seats. The battery is charged with spare engine power and through regenerative braking. The Insight can drive solely on electric power at speeds up to around 30mph.


Continuously variable transmission provides the hybrid compact with infinite ratios allowing the engine to run in an efficient rev range. Honda's ECON mode maximises fuel economy further by remapping the computer to accelerate more slowly and keep revs lower.


Other features helping to make the Honda Insight a best mileage compact include a stop start system, variable cylinder management, low resistance rubber and a new aerodynamic shape.


The car's dedication to fuel economy is further underlined during driving.Honda's multi information display gives you feedback on your current and average fuel mileage, and your braking and accelerating patterns in order to help you drive more efficiently. The speedometer also changes color providing instant feedback on your driving style. When its green you're getting good fuel mileage, when its blue you're not driving economically. In addition to all this, there's also recognition of your long term driving style. The car rewards you with a number of leaves depending on your mileage and driving patterns. A total of five leaves are displayed to the most light footed drivers. Since it takes quite a while to build up to five leaves its a game that should keep you entertained for some time.


Standard equipment across the Insight range is pretty good. The pricier EX model has alloy wheels, cruise control, a better audio system with iPod connectivity, paddle shifters on the steering wheel giving the feel of a seven speed manual, stability assist and a navigation system with voice commands.


Hybrid car customers tend to also prioritise safety and Honda hasn't disappointed with their 2010 hybrid compact - front, side and curtain airbags, anti lock brakes and a pedestrian friendly front nose are all standard.


Interior passenger space is good for people in the front of the car but can get tight in the rear depending on the size of your passengers (and how much room they like!). Children and young teenagers will definitely have plenty of space but larger adults will find the head and leg room a bit cramped. The 2010 Prius definitely has greater space for rear passengers. There's 350 liters of storage space (without folding any seats down) and another 50 liters in underfloor storage compartments.


This best mileage compact is a nicer car to drive than Toyota's Prius. It feels responsive and agile considering its a hybrid with a small engine. While the engine and electric motor perform really well in the city you will notice a slight lack of power on the highway when you overtake at speed. The ride is good on all but the bumpiest roads where you'll feel the bumps somewhat.


Honda's 2010 Insight is a very good compact. Its one of the least expensive hybrids you can buy yet has a high build quality, performs well, is safe and practical. Its only limitation if you're looking for a family car is size, in which case you may be better off considering the mid sized Prius. The 2010 Toyota Prius is larger and more powerful and has more features but it does cost several thousand more.