Honda: Insight News
#121
Race Director
#122
Safety Car
Photo
1st Image of Production 2010 Honda Insight Revealed
The production version of the 2009 Honda Insight Hybrid will make its world debut at the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Honda says that the 5-door Insight will be the most affordable hybrid car available when it hits markets in spring of 2009.
Honda plans to sell 200,000 units of the Insight Hybrid annually - 100,000 of which are expected to come from North America.
Honda’s Insight Hybrid will be powered by a 1.3L gasoline engine mated to Honda’s new hybrid system. Fuel-economy of the production Insight is expected to mirror the Honda Civic Hybrid which gets 40/45 mpg (city/highway). We’ll have more details from the 2009 Detroit Auto Show next month.
#123
The sizzle in the Steak
For Comparison:
#124
Moto Enthusiast
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Go Honda for undercutting the Prius. I think they're both ugly, but competition is always welcomed. Especially if it means cheaper prices for the consumer.
#125
Senior Moderator
I'm a little disappointed with the fuel economy, to be honest. I was hoping it would be better than 40/45. It's still good, but not anything impressive IMO.
#127
The sizzle in the Steak
About what was expected...in terms of mileage.....if this thing got better mpg than the civic hybrid, then why produce the civic hybrid at all?
Having this and the Civic hybrid is redundant enough...but if it beat the civic in mpg what's the point of the civic hybrid?
Having this and the Civic hybrid is redundant enough...but if it beat the civic in mpg what's the point of the civic hybrid?
#129
The sizzle in the Steak
#131
Senior Moderator
True, but if it's going to be a Prius fighter, I think it's going to lose. The Insight is smaller, offers less creature comforts, and gets less mpg. I guess we'll see what happens.
#132
The sizzle in the Steak
but......When gas prices go back up, this will be a winner.
#133
Senior Moderator
Wouldn't be a first.
My perspective may be different considering Civic's can hit 26K+ on the road up here. (Non Si)
#134
The sizzle in the Steak
I thought the civic and fit were B segment cars
#135
Senior Moderator
Maybe I'm screwing up my A, B and C's but isn't the Fit, Yaris, Versa etc considered a somewhat new segment?
Point being, smaller,cheaper cars are also typically more fuel efficient. So offering better MPG in the Insight wouldn't be a first or the end of the world or the Civic Hybrid. If they can differentiate it enough.
But we still don't have specs on the Insight. Some are saying its the same size as the Civic on the inside.
Point being, smaller,cheaper cars are also typically more fuel efficient. So offering better MPG in the Insight wouldn't be a first or the end of the world or the Civic Hybrid. If they can differentiate it enough.
But we still don't have specs on the Insight. Some are saying its the same size as the Civic on the inside.
#136
The sizzle in the Steak
^^ Perhaps we will think of the civic as "upmarket"?
I always thought the civic was an "entry level" honda product.
I always thought the civic was an "entry level" honda product.
#138
fap fap fap
#140
Safety Car
7 Speed Paddle Shifters
Leaked Brochure Scans Show Honda Insight in Sporty Trim
By The Auto Insider, 10:00 AM on Mon Dec 29 2008, 1,374 views
Honda’s readying its production Insight for worldwide debut at the Detroit Auto Show two weeks from now, but we’ve got scans of what looks to be the sporty Modulo version for you now.
We showed you the front three-quarter shot that Honda provided of its production Insight earlier this month and we just recently received these scans from a poster at the Temple of Vtec. Depicted are the first shots of the production Insight from the rear three-quarter as well as its interior.
The Body Kits Now Make Cars Faster And More Fuel Efficient
While the front design of the 2010 Honda Insight goes largely unchanged from the Insight Concept, the rear design is tidied up a bit and loses some of its show car flair. The interior is also very similar to what was shown in the Paris Motor Show Insight Concept, but it loses some of the neat capacitive touch button surfaces in favor of traditional push buttons.
Also shown is what appears to be the sportier Modulo version – an accessorized version outfitted from the factory. The Modulo Insight is shown wearing a sportier bodykit including a front-lip spoiler with fog lamps, side skirts, lower rear fascia and a set of larger alloy wheels.
Below we have an as-yet unofficial spec sheet listing the different models and options, but we’ll wait for further information from Honda before trusting this information completely. Honda is expected to release the production Insight for worldwide sale in the spring of 2009 at an entry-level price of $18,000 to $19,000.
By The Auto Insider, 10:00 AM on Mon Dec 29 2008, 1,374 views
Honda’s readying its production Insight for worldwide debut at the Detroit Auto Show two weeks from now, but we’ve got scans of what looks to be the sporty Modulo version for you now.
We showed you the front three-quarter shot that Honda provided of its production Insight earlier this month and we just recently received these scans from a poster at the Temple of Vtec. Depicted are the first shots of the production Insight from the rear three-quarter as well as its interior.
The Body Kits Now Make Cars Faster And More Fuel Efficient
While the front design of the 2010 Honda Insight goes largely unchanged from the Insight Concept, the rear design is tidied up a bit and loses some of its show car flair. The interior is also very similar to what was shown in the Paris Motor Show Insight Concept, but it loses some of the neat capacitive touch button surfaces in favor of traditional push buttons.
Also shown is what appears to be the sportier Modulo version – an accessorized version outfitted from the factory. The Modulo Insight is shown wearing a sportier bodykit including a front-lip spoiler with fog lamps, side skirts, lower rear fascia and a set of larger alloy wheels.
Below we have an as-yet unofficial spec sheet listing the different models and options, but we’ll wait for further information from Honda before trusting this information completely. Honda is expected to release the production Insight for worldwide sale in the spring of 2009 at an entry-level price of $18,000 to $19,000.
Features common to all Japanese Insights:
• Ecological Drive Assist System
• multi-information display
• full-auto air conditioner
• projector-style headlights
• remote-control body-colored external mirrors
• tinted rear windows
• security alarm
• immobilizer (ignition system verifies chip in key)
• 15-inch steel wheels
• solar-heat-reducing/noise-reducing glass
• active front head-rests
• tilt/telescoping steering wheel
• seat-height adjuster
• three rear-seat head rests
• flat-tire repair kit (the new Insight carries no spare tire)
The L model adds:
• high-intensity discharge headlights with auto light control
• turn signals in the external mirrors
• leather steering wheel
• rear speakers
• front/rear arm rests
• variable-speed windshield wiper
• map light and luggage-area light
• driver's seat back pocket
The LS model adds:
• 16-inch aluminum wheels
• Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA)
• front fog lights
• 7-speed paddle shifters
• sun-shade tinted windshield
Optional accessories:
• navigation system with 7-inch screen and hard disk drive (this system may also display additional fuel economy information and in Japan it may include a TV tuner and ECT, an electronic highway toll payment system)
• Honda smart key system
• side-curtain air bags
• 15-inch aluminum wheel for L class
• High-intensity discharge headlights
• comfort view package plus rear window wiper
Body color options:
• Spectrum while pearl (also a Civic hybrid color)
• Milano red (also a Fit color)
• Premium deep violet pearl (also a Jazz color, but not a US Honda color)
• Crystal black pearl (also an Accord, Civic, and Fit color)
• Polished metal metallic (also an Accord and Civic color)
• Alabaster silver metallic (also an Accord and Civic color)
• Brilliant sky metallic (also a Jazz color, but not a US Honda color)
Interior color options:
• Blue
• Warm gray
Other data:
• Length 4390 mm (172.8 inches)
• Width 1695 mm (66.7 inches)
• Height 1425 mm (56.1 inches)
• Wheelbase 2550 mm (100.4 inches)
• Weight 1180 kilograms (2601.5 lbs)
• Minimum turning radius: 5 meters (16.4 feet)
• Engine type: inline 1339 cc SOHC 4-cylinder
• Engine generates 88 horsepower @5800rpm and 12.3 kgm torque @4500rpm
• IMA motor generates 14 horsepower @1500rpm and 9.4 kgm torque @500rpm
• Japanese 10.15 mode fuel consumption test: 30.0 kilometers per liter (which is greater than 70 mpg, but the EPA tests will return lower numbers; the Toyota Prius rates 35.5 km/l or greater than 83 mpg in this test.)
• Ecological Drive Assist System
• multi-information display
• full-auto air conditioner
• projector-style headlights
• remote-control body-colored external mirrors
• tinted rear windows
• security alarm
• immobilizer (ignition system verifies chip in key)
• 15-inch steel wheels
• solar-heat-reducing/noise-reducing glass
• active front head-rests
• tilt/telescoping steering wheel
• seat-height adjuster
• three rear-seat head rests
• flat-tire repair kit (the new Insight carries no spare tire)
The L model adds:
• high-intensity discharge headlights with auto light control
• turn signals in the external mirrors
• leather steering wheel
• rear speakers
• front/rear arm rests
• variable-speed windshield wiper
• map light and luggage-area light
• driver's seat back pocket
The LS model adds:
• 16-inch aluminum wheels
• Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA)
• front fog lights
• 7-speed paddle shifters
• sun-shade tinted windshield
Optional accessories:
• navigation system with 7-inch screen and hard disk drive (this system may also display additional fuel economy information and in Japan it may include a TV tuner and ECT, an electronic highway toll payment system)
• Honda smart key system
• side-curtain air bags
• 15-inch aluminum wheel for L class
• High-intensity discharge headlights
• comfort view package plus rear window wiper
Body color options:
• Spectrum while pearl (also a Civic hybrid color)
• Milano red (also a Fit color)
• Premium deep violet pearl (also a Jazz color, but not a US Honda color)
• Crystal black pearl (also an Accord, Civic, and Fit color)
• Polished metal metallic (also an Accord and Civic color)
• Alabaster silver metallic (also an Accord and Civic color)
• Brilliant sky metallic (also a Jazz color, but not a US Honda color)
Interior color options:
• Blue
• Warm gray
Other data:
• Length 4390 mm (172.8 inches)
• Width 1695 mm (66.7 inches)
• Height 1425 mm (56.1 inches)
• Wheelbase 2550 mm (100.4 inches)
• Weight 1180 kilograms (2601.5 lbs)
• Minimum turning radius: 5 meters (16.4 feet)
• Engine type: inline 1339 cc SOHC 4-cylinder
• Engine generates 88 horsepower @5800rpm and 12.3 kgm torque @4500rpm
• IMA motor generates 14 horsepower @1500rpm and 9.4 kgm torque @500rpm
• Japanese 10.15 mode fuel consumption test: 30.0 kilometers per liter (which is greater than 70 mpg, but the EPA tests will return lower numbers; the Toyota Prius rates 35.5 km/l or greater than 83 mpg in this test.)
#141
I drive a Subata.
iTrader: (1)
It's ugly IMO, however, I'm just glad to see another hybrid vehicle on the market to create a head-to-head competition against Prius. Hope the pricing point comes down abit... because the premium for Prius has been pretty ridicuous, especially during the gas crisis...
#142
The sizzle in the Steak
#143
Senior Moderator
<---- would like to see the return of the Accord V6 Hybrid....ideally capable of MPGs > the Accord 4 cyl 5MT yet with 280hp/270lb-ft+ on tap.
* =
* =
#144
Technical details and economy figures for the new Honda Insight have leaked onto the internet, and it looks like the new hybrid will be capable of up to 67mpg.
A Honda brochure, posted by Honda Belgium on its own website, revealed that the Honda Insight can manage 67.3mpg on the extra-urban cycle. Combined fuel consumption is 64.2mpg and CO2 emissions are 101g/km.
As predicted, the Honda Insight uses an updated version of Honda’s IMA petrol-electric drivetrain, with an 87bhp, 91lb ft 1339cc four-cylinder engine and a 13.4bhp, 76lb ft electric motor. The transmission is a CVT unit.
Combined power from the engine and electric motor is 100bhp at 5800rpm, and full torque output is 123lb ft from 1000rpm.
Although the CO2 output is lower than the current Prius’s, Toyota is launching a new version of its hybrid at Detroit, and it should dip below 100g/km. But the Honda Insight will be considerably cheaper than the Prius – prices are expected to start at round Ł15,000.
In Europe, two trim levels will be available. Comfort comes with climate control and runs on 15-inch wheels as standard. Upgrade to Elegance and you get Bluetooth, cruise control and parking sensors.
A Honda brochure, posted by Honda Belgium on its own website, revealed that the Honda Insight can manage 67.3mpg on the extra-urban cycle. Combined fuel consumption is 64.2mpg and CO2 emissions are 101g/km.
As predicted, the Honda Insight uses an updated version of Honda’s IMA petrol-electric drivetrain, with an 87bhp, 91lb ft 1339cc four-cylinder engine and a 13.4bhp, 76lb ft electric motor. The transmission is a CVT unit.
Combined power from the engine and electric motor is 100bhp at 5800rpm, and full torque output is 123lb ft from 1000rpm.
Although the CO2 output is lower than the current Prius’s, Toyota is launching a new version of its hybrid at Detroit, and it should dip below 100g/km. But the Honda Insight will be considerably cheaper than the Prius – prices are expected to start at round Ł15,000.
In Europe, two trim levels will be available. Comfort comes with climate control and runs on 15-inch wheels as standard. Upgrade to Elegance and you get Bluetooth, cruise control and parking sensors.
#148
The sizzle in the Steak
^^ No way the Insight is gonna get 67mpg.
#150
The sizzle in the Steak
#152
Senior Moderator
Honda's official Insight website is up:
http://automobiles.honda.com/insight-hybrid/
Specs page says 40/43/41 for city/highway/combined gas mileage:
http://automobiles.honda.com/insight...fications.aspx
With it being introduced at the auto show today, I'm sure we'll get lots of pics now...
It really looks like a neat little car. I'd be tempted to buy something like this for a daily driver and get a rwd gas guzzler for weekend fun
http://automobiles.honda.com/insight-hybrid/
Specs page says 40/43/41 for city/highway/combined gas mileage:
http://automobiles.honda.com/insight...fications.aspx
With it being introduced at the auto show today, I'm sure we'll get lots of pics now...
It really looks like a neat little car. I'd be tempted to buy something like this for a daily driver and get a rwd gas guzzler for weekend fun
#153
Safety Car
Info
2010 Honda Insight Makes its Debut
Date: January 11, 2009 09:04
Submitted by: Jeff
Source: Honda Press Release
Credibility Rating: Not Specified
01/11/2008 - DETROIT -
The all-new 2010 Honda Insight hybrid car made its world debut today at the North American International Auto Show. Utilizing the latest generation of Honda’s Integrated Motor Assist™ (IMA®) hybrid technology and new, more cost-efficient production methods, the 2010 Insight defines a new stage in the evolution of hybrid technology, providing hybrid customers with a new level of affordability, fun-to-drive performance, and a U.S. EPA city/highway fuel-economy rating of 40/43 miles per gallon.
The 2010 Insight will be launched at Honda dealers throughout the United States in the beginning of April 2009 and will be priced below the Civic Hybrid.
“Honda hybrids have always offered great value, high fuel efficiency and a healthy dose of fun near the middle price range in the Honda lineup,” said John Mendel, executive vice president of American Honda. “With the introduction of the all-new Insight, we’re opening up Honda’s fun-to-drive, versatile and fuel-efficient hybrid technology to an entirely new group of buyers that previously may not have considered a hybrid because of either image or cost."
Evoking the advanced and aerodynamic five-door sedan design first deployed on the revolutionary FCX Clarity fuel cell car, the new Insight has a low center of gravity and a spacious five-passenger cabin, offering the kind of driving experience and roomy, versatile interior space that customers have come to expect from Honda.
To help Insight owners realize the full benefits of Honda hybrid technology, the Insight will feature a new interactive, driver-focused fuel economy enhancement technology named the Ecological Drive Assist System (Eco Assist™). Eco Assist combines multiple functions:
* A driver-activated ECON mode that optimizes control of the continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), engine and related powertrain components to further improve vehicle fuel efficiency;
* a driver feedback function that uses an innovative speedometer display with changing background colors to provide real-time guidance to the driver on achieving higher fuel efficiency; and
* a unique fuel-economy scoring function using a plant-leaf graphic to provide feedback to the driver on current-trip driving efficiency and lifetime fuel-efficient driving performance.All Insights are powered by an advanced 1.3-liter SOHC aluminum-alloy i-VTEC engine and CVT, along with a new generation of Honda’s IMA hybrid system for exceptional fuel economy and fun-to-drive performance.
The Insight’s IMA system incorporates a 10-kilowatt (13 hp) electric motor and a compact Intelligent Power Unit (IPU) – recapturing and storing kinetic energy from vehicle braking and deceleration and supplying additional power for acceleration when needed. Packaging of the ultra-compact IMA battery and IPU in the vehicle’s rear floor allows the enhanced utility of a 60/40 split and fold-down rear seat back.
The Insight’s IMA system has the capability to operate exclusively on electric power in certain low- to mid-speed driving conditions. It also provides for cylinder deactivation within the gasoline engine during deceleration and for engine shutoff when the vehicle is stopped. With a 10.6-gallon fuel tank, the Insight delivers an estimated maximum driving range in excess of 400 miles.
Standard safety features on all Insights include dual-stage, dual-threshold front airbags; front-side airbags with a passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS); side curtain airbag system; anti-lock brakes with electronic brake distribution (EBD); driver- and front-passenger active head restraints and a front body designed to mitigate pedestrian injuries. All new Insights also feature Honda’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, which provides improved crash compatibility between vehicles of different size and ride height, enhancing protection for Insight occupants while reducing the potential for injury to occupants of the opposing vehicle in a frontal collision.
Additional standard features on all new Insights include 60/40 split and fold-down rear seatbacks; two-tier digital instrument panels; automatic climate control; power windows, mirrors and door locks; a tilting and telescoping steering wheel and a 160-watt AM/FM/CD audio system with MP3 audio playback, an auxiliary audio input jack and Speed-Sensitive Volume Control (SVC).
Insight EX models add alloy wheels, cruise control, 6-speaker audio system with USB audio interface, steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters, Honda Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) and an available Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ with Voice Recognition.
Honda is a leader in developing cleaner, more fuel-efficient vehicle technologies, including the original Honda Insight, introduced as America’s first mass-produced hybrid car in December 1999. American Honda has announced plans to increase its U.S. hybrid sales beyond the new Insight with the introduction of a third hybrid car, based on the Honda CR-Z concept vehicle, within the next couple of years. Honda is also a leader in the development of advanced alternatives to gasoline, including the zero-emission, hydrogen-powered Honda FCX Clarity fuel cell car, the world’s most advanced production automobile.
More TOV Coverage on 2010 Honda Insight
* TOV Videos: 2010 Honda Insight
* 2010 Honda Insight Photo Gallery
* 2010 Honda Insight Specifications
* First Drive Report Coming Soon!
Date: January 11, 2009 09:04
Submitted by: Jeff
Source: Honda Press Release
Credibility Rating: Not Specified
01/11/2008 - DETROIT -
The all-new 2010 Honda Insight hybrid car made its world debut today at the North American International Auto Show. Utilizing the latest generation of Honda’s Integrated Motor Assist™ (IMA®) hybrid technology and new, more cost-efficient production methods, the 2010 Insight defines a new stage in the evolution of hybrid technology, providing hybrid customers with a new level of affordability, fun-to-drive performance, and a U.S. EPA city/highway fuel-economy rating of 40/43 miles per gallon.
The 2010 Insight will be launched at Honda dealers throughout the United States in the beginning of April 2009 and will be priced below the Civic Hybrid.
“Honda hybrids have always offered great value, high fuel efficiency and a healthy dose of fun near the middle price range in the Honda lineup,” said John Mendel, executive vice president of American Honda. “With the introduction of the all-new Insight, we’re opening up Honda’s fun-to-drive, versatile and fuel-efficient hybrid technology to an entirely new group of buyers that previously may not have considered a hybrid because of either image or cost."
Evoking the advanced and aerodynamic five-door sedan design first deployed on the revolutionary FCX Clarity fuel cell car, the new Insight has a low center of gravity and a spacious five-passenger cabin, offering the kind of driving experience and roomy, versatile interior space that customers have come to expect from Honda.
To help Insight owners realize the full benefits of Honda hybrid technology, the Insight will feature a new interactive, driver-focused fuel economy enhancement technology named the Ecological Drive Assist System (Eco Assist™). Eco Assist combines multiple functions:
* A driver-activated ECON mode that optimizes control of the continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), engine and related powertrain components to further improve vehicle fuel efficiency;
* a driver feedback function that uses an innovative speedometer display with changing background colors to provide real-time guidance to the driver on achieving higher fuel efficiency; and
* a unique fuel-economy scoring function using a plant-leaf graphic to provide feedback to the driver on current-trip driving efficiency and lifetime fuel-efficient driving performance.
The Insight’s IMA system incorporates a 10-kilowatt (13 hp) electric motor and a compact Intelligent Power Unit (IPU) – recapturing and storing kinetic energy from vehicle braking and deceleration and supplying additional power for acceleration when needed. Packaging of the ultra-compact IMA battery and IPU in the vehicle’s rear floor allows the enhanced utility of a 60/40 split and fold-down rear seat back.
The Insight’s IMA system has the capability to operate exclusively on electric power in certain low- to mid-speed driving conditions. It also provides for cylinder deactivation within the gasoline engine during deceleration and for engine shutoff when the vehicle is stopped. With a 10.6-gallon fuel tank, the Insight delivers an estimated maximum driving range in excess of 400 miles.
Standard safety features on all Insights include dual-stage, dual-threshold front airbags; front-side airbags with a passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS); side curtain airbag system; anti-lock brakes with electronic brake distribution (EBD); driver- and front-passenger active head restraints and a front body designed to mitigate pedestrian injuries. All new Insights also feature Honda’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, which provides improved crash compatibility between vehicles of different size and ride height, enhancing protection for Insight occupants while reducing the potential for injury to occupants of the opposing vehicle in a frontal collision.
Additional standard features on all new Insights include 60/40 split and fold-down rear seatbacks; two-tier digital instrument panels; automatic climate control; power windows, mirrors and door locks; a tilting and telescoping steering wheel and a 160-watt AM/FM/CD audio system with MP3 audio playback, an auxiliary audio input jack and Speed-Sensitive Volume Control (SVC).
Insight EX models add alloy wheels, cruise control, 6-speaker audio system with USB audio interface, steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters, Honda Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) and an available Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ with Voice Recognition.
Honda is a leader in developing cleaner, more fuel-efficient vehicle technologies, including the original Honda Insight, introduced as America’s first mass-produced hybrid car in December 1999. American Honda has announced plans to increase its U.S. hybrid sales beyond the new Insight with the introduction of a third hybrid car, based on the Honda CR-Z concept vehicle, within the next couple of years. Honda is also a leader in the development of advanced alternatives to gasoline, including the zero-emission, hydrogen-powered Honda FCX Clarity fuel cell car, the world’s most advanced production automobile.
More TOV Coverage on 2010 Honda Insight
* TOV Videos: 2010 Honda Insight
* 2010 Honda Insight Photo Gallery
* 2010 Honda Insight Specifications
* First Drive Report Coming Soon!
#154
I disagree with unanimity
iTrader: (2)
Here's a couple vids from TOV
Interior:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rLhHP...layer_embedded
Exterior:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zeqoq...layer_embedded
Driving:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cGgh7...layer_embedded
Interior:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rLhHP...layer_embedded
Exterior:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zeqoq...layer_embedded
Driving:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cGgh7...layer_embedded
#155
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Well other than the disappointing mileage estimates it seems like a nice car. Real world fuel economy seems quite good (50s-60s), it is well appointed given the very reasonable price range, and it has a fairly sleek look and a nice interior with lots of eco gizmos.
Most important, however, is that it appears to be a driver's hybrid. Unlike the Prius, it has good handling, and it doesn't appear to have the same unusual driving and slowwww throttle response problems. It should sell quite well.
Most important, however, is that it appears to be a driver's hybrid. Unlike the Prius, it has good handling, and it doesn't appear to have the same unusual driving and slowwww throttle response problems. It should sell quite well.
#156
I drive a Subata.
iTrader: (1)
^ Have you ever driven Toyota Prius?
#157
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Ya, my old neighbor had one of the current gen Priuses. I drove it about 40 miles one time. I honestly really didn't like it. The engine cutoff doesn't really bother me, but the controls are definitely kind of strange, and I hated the driving dynamics. It seemed really slow to me, the back seat was like bedrock, and in typical Toyota fashion the handling was really poor.
#158
Senior Moderator
In a some what related story..
http://www.leftlanenews.com/calif-co...d-mileage.html
Bad timing for sure.
http://www.leftlanenews.com/calif-co...d-mileage.html
A California appeals court has agreed to hear a lawsuit accusing Honda of false advertising related to its Civic Hybrid. The suit claims Honda reports unrealistic mileage figures, which the company says can be achieved under normal driving conditions. Honda has received a number of complaints about the Civic Hybrid’s mileage, prompting it to ask the EPA to revise the rating down.
Under U.S. federal law, carmakers are protected from lawsuits over disclosure of fuel economy standards. But this latest lawsuit, brought forward by Civic owner Gaetano Paduano, is based on an interesting loophole. The crux of Paduano’s complaint is the claim in Honda’s ads that EPA mileage can be achieved by diving the vehicle like a regular car.
Paduano “presented evidence that directly disputes Honda’s claim that a driver need not do anything special in order to achieve gas mileage close to the EPA estimate,” the Fourth District Court of Appeal acknowledged in its 2-1 opinion, according to Reuters.
Paduano says a customer service representative admitted to him the company had received “a high number of complaints about customers not receiving the posted and advertised mileage.” However, Honda will not officially go on record about the concerns.
The lawsuit suffered a setback in 2006 when a trial court granted summary judgment in favor of Honda on all claims. It’s not known when the appeals court will hear the case.
Under U.S. federal law, carmakers are protected from lawsuits over disclosure of fuel economy standards. But this latest lawsuit, brought forward by Civic owner Gaetano Paduano, is based on an interesting loophole. The crux of Paduano’s complaint is the claim in Honda’s ads that EPA mileage can be achieved by diving the vehicle like a regular car.
Paduano “presented evidence that directly disputes Honda’s claim that a driver need not do anything special in order to achieve gas mileage close to the EPA estimate,” the Fourth District Court of Appeal acknowledged in its 2-1 opinion, according to Reuters.
Paduano says a customer service representative admitted to him the company had received “a high number of complaints about customers not receiving the posted and advertised mileage.” However, Honda will not officially go on record about the concerns.
The lawsuit suffered a setback in 2006 when a trial court granted summary judgment in favor of Honda on all claims. It’s not known when the appeals court will hear the case.
Bad timing for sure.
#159
The sizzle in the Steak
Honda's official Insight website is up:
http://automobiles.honda.com/insight-hybrid/
Specs page says 40/43/41 for city/highway/combined gas mileage:
http://automobiles.honda.com/insight...fications.aspx
With it being introduced at the auto show today, I'm sure we'll get lots of pics now...
It really looks like a neat little car. I'd be tempted to buy something like this for a daily driver and get a rwd gas guzzler for weekend fun
http://automobiles.honda.com/insight-hybrid/
Specs page says 40/43/41 for city/highway/combined gas mileage:
http://automobiles.honda.com/insight...fications.aspx
With it being introduced at the auto show today, I'm sure we'll get lots of pics now...
It really looks like a neat little car. I'd be tempted to buy something like this for a daily driver and get a rwd gas guzzler for weekend fun
What a let-down.
#160
Senior Moderator
MT Asks Honda about Poor MPG
How is this is possible when the Insight is smaller (compact vs. the midsize Civic), lighter (2800 lbs vs. 2900 lbs) and, most significantly, uses more advanced fifth generation Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) technology?
I posed the question to Hideharu Takemoto, Assistant Chief Engineer for Honda, and one of the fathers of the original Insight and the IMA system.
"The main reason is that we didn't set the target of "label" fuel economy," says Takemoto-san. Which means the Insight team's primary goal was not merely a high mileage number or as he is fond of calling it -- a label
"The main concept of this vehicle is 'Next Era Transportation' which is based on four key pillars: Clean and Green, Usable, Fun and Affordable. The highest priority during development was balancing of all four of these key pillars at a high level -- not get one and lose the others," he says.
"For example, we didn't apply [a] dish type alloy wheel. The decision was made because there have been [a] certain number of customers who didn't like dish wheels and replaced them when they bought Civic Hybrid. We didn't want to see this situation with the Insight."
"Tires are another example," Takemoto-san continues. "Civic Hybrid has very low rolling resistance with good stopping distance but ride/handling feeling is not great. We wanted fun drive feel even if we lose a little on the fuel economy label."
Honda Insight
Also [the] newly developed hybrid technologies are mostly utilized [to make the Insight] affordable because [the] current Civic Hybrid already has quite high efficiency hybrid system. People who expect this hybrid to be a hypermiler's vehicle may be disappointed by the label number, however those who want to buy [a normal] vehicle, I believe Insight is one of the best choices."
"Finally, we have tested [Insight] in actual traffic [conditions] and compared [it] with Civic Hybrid over and over again. We found Insight mileage was always better than current Civic Hybrid thanks mainly to lighter weight, which cannot be reflected appropriately in the EPA modes. I'm confident that our direction was correct for customer's actual benefit," Takemoto-san concludes.
Get all that? Essentially, Takemoto-san states that the Insight team had priorities beyond simply shooting for the highest mpg. They wanted the Insight to be clean and green, but not at the cost of utility, affordability, or fun.
It stands to reason too -- the first gen Insight posted nosebleed mpg numbers (61 city, 68 highway mpg on the old EPA cycle) -- but was roundly criticized for returning a loud and flimsy feeling drive. Look at their next big hybrid launch -- the Civic -- and you see then that the Insight's IMA technology was applied to a far more livable package. This time around, Honda has addressed a few more of the concerns and smoothed out leftover rough spots -- at the expense of one combined EPA mpg. Although if you believe Takemoto's assessment, the Insight may actually record better mileage in real world driving scenarios.
Will it work? Tough to say. Toyota and GM spent lots of money during our long crazy summer of $4/gal gasoline on ad campaigns touting mpg ("I want my mpg..." anyone?) Just as horsepower and 0-60 have become ingrained in the minds of the motoring public as the figures that define sports cars, mpg is now on the tip of everyone's tongue when it comes to new vehicle purchases - even with gas prices below $2 across the country.
Who knows? Maybe lower gas prices will work in Honda's favor, helping to focus attention off the Insight's "label" and more towards the four key marketing strategies. Only time and monthly sales reports will tell.
I posed the question to Hideharu Takemoto, Assistant Chief Engineer for Honda, and one of the fathers of the original Insight and the IMA system.
"The main reason is that we didn't set the target of "label" fuel economy," says Takemoto-san. Which means the Insight team's primary goal was not merely a high mileage number or as he is fond of calling it -- a label
"The main concept of this vehicle is 'Next Era Transportation' which is based on four key pillars: Clean and Green, Usable, Fun and Affordable. The highest priority during development was balancing of all four of these key pillars at a high level -- not get one and lose the others," he says.
"For example, we didn't apply [a] dish type alloy wheel. The decision was made because there have been [a] certain number of customers who didn't like dish wheels and replaced them when they bought Civic Hybrid. We didn't want to see this situation with the Insight."
"Tires are another example," Takemoto-san continues. "Civic Hybrid has very low rolling resistance with good stopping distance but ride/handling feeling is not great. We wanted fun drive feel even if we lose a little on the fuel economy label."
Honda Insight
Also [the] newly developed hybrid technologies are mostly utilized [to make the Insight] affordable because [the] current Civic Hybrid already has quite high efficiency hybrid system. People who expect this hybrid to be a hypermiler's vehicle may be disappointed by the label number, however those who want to buy [a normal] vehicle, I believe Insight is one of the best choices."
"Finally, we have tested [Insight] in actual traffic [conditions] and compared [it] with Civic Hybrid over and over again. We found Insight mileage was always better than current Civic Hybrid thanks mainly to lighter weight, which cannot be reflected appropriately in the EPA modes. I'm confident that our direction was correct for customer's actual benefit," Takemoto-san concludes.
Get all that? Essentially, Takemoto-san states that the Insight team had priorities beyond simply shooting for the highest mpg. They wanted the Insight to be clean and green, but not at the cost of utility, affordability, or fun.
It stands to reason too -- the first gen Insight posted nosebleed mpg numbers (61 city, 68 highway mpg on the old EPA cycle) -- but was roundly criticized for returning a loud and flimsy feeling drive. Look at their next big hybrid launch -- the Civic -- and you see then that the Insight's IMA technology was applied to a far more livable package. This time around, Honda has addressed a few more of the concerns and smoothed out leftover rough spots -- at the expense of one combined EPA mpg. Although if you believe Takemoto's assessment, the Insight may actually record better mileage in real world driving scenarios.
Will it work? Tough to say. Toyota and GM spent lots of money during our long crazy summer of $4/gal gasoline on ad campaigns touting mpg ("I want my mpg..." anyone?) Just as horsepower and 0-60 have become ingrained in the minds of the motoring public as the figures that define sports cars, mpg is now on the tip of everyone's tongue when it comes to new vehicle purchases - even with gas prices below $2 across the country.
Who knows? Maybe lower gas prices will work in Honda's favor, helping to focus attention off the Insight's "label" and more towards the four key marketing strategies. Only time and monthly sales reports will tell.