Home > News & Blogs > 2019 Honda Insight Delivers Impressive 55 MPG Fuel Efficiency
2019 Honda Insight Delivers Impressive 55 MPG Fuel Efficiency
2019 Honda Insight: Redefining the Hybrid Experience
The premium compact sedan that combines efficiency, style, and innovation
In the evolving landscape of eco-friendly vehicles, the 2019 Honda Insight emerges as a formidable contender, blending Honda's engineering excellence with sophisticated design. This third-generation hybrid sedan represents Honda's most compelling challenge yet to Toyota's Prius dominance, offering comparable efficiency with significantly more mainstream appeal.
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Design Philosophy: Where Efficiency Meets Elegance
Unlike some hybrids that wear their eco-credentials loudly through unconventional styling, the 2019 Insight adopts a more subtle approach. Honda's designers created what they describe as "universally appealing styling" - a clear differentiation from the polarizing aesthetics of some competitors.
Exterior Highlights
- Premium Presence: Shares the Civic's platform but with more refined proportions and upscale detailing
- Aerodynamic Efficiency: Coupe-like roofline and carefully tuned body lines contribute to its 55 MPG rating
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- Signature Lighting: Full LED headlights and taillights standard across all trim levels
- Distinctive Front End: Chrome "flying wing" grille treatment and aluminum hood reduce weight
- Wheel Options: 16-inch or 17-inch alloy wheels designed for optimal airflow
Powertrain and Performance
The 2019 Insight showcases Honda's third-generation two-motor hybrid system, representing a significant evolution in hybrid technology. This intelligent powertrain automatically switches between power sources for optimal efficiency without compromising driving dynamics.
| Engine | 1.5L Atkinson-cycle 4-cylinder + dual electric motors |
|---|---|
| Total System Output | 151 horsepower / 197 lb-ft torque |
| Transmission | e-CVT (electronically controlled variable transmission) |
| Fuel Economy (EPA est.) | 55 MPG city / 49 MPG highway / 52 MPG combined |
| Electric-Only Range | Approximately 1 mile at low speeds |
The system operates primarily as a series hybrid, with the gasoline engine acting as a generator for the electric drive motor. At highway speeds, a clutch mechanism directly connects the engine to the wheels for improved efficiency. Drivers can select between three modes (Normal, Econ, Sport) and adjust regenerative braking intensity via steering wheel paddles.
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Interior Comfort and Technology
Positioned between the Civic and Accord in Honda's lineup, the Insight delivers a premium experience that belies its compact dimensions. Thoughtful sound insulation and upgraded materials create a cabin environment that challenges luxury competitors.
Standard Features (LX Trim)
- 7-inch digital instrument cluster
- Push-button start
- Multi-angle rearview camera
- Honda Sensing safety suite
- Automatic climate control
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Available Upgrades (EX and Touring)
- 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
- Leather-trimmed seats (perforated in Touring)
- 10-speaker premium audio system
- 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot
- Heated front seats and power adjustment
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
Despite being a hybrid, the Insight offers practical cargo space (15.1 cu. ft.) thanks to the lithium-ion battery's placement beneath the rear seats. Higher trims feature a 60/40 split-folding rear seat for added versatility.
Safety and Driver Assistance
The 2019 Insight comes standard with Honda Sensing®, the brand's comprehensive suite of safety and driver-assist technologies:
- Collision Mitigation Braking System: Detects potential collisions and can apply brakes automatically
- Road Departure Mitigation: Helps prevent unintentional lane departure
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains set following distance from vehicles ahead
- Lane Keeping Assist: Provides gentle steering inputs to maintain lane position
- Traffic Sign Recognition: Displays detected speed limit signs in the instrument cluster
Higher trims add Honda's LaneWatch™ blind spot display, which shows the passenger-side blind spot on the center screen when the turn signal is activated.
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Insight vs. Prius: The Hybrid Showdown
While both vehicles deliver exceptional efficiency, they take fundamentally different approaches to the hybrid experience:
| Feature | 2019 Honda Insight | Toyota Prius |
|---|---|---|
| Base MSRP | $22,830 | $23,770 |
| City MPG | 55 | 54 |
| Horsepower | 151 | 121 |
| Cargo Space | 15.1 cu. ft. | 24.6 cu. ft. (hatchback) |
| Interior Noise | Quieter cabin with more insulation | More road noise apparent |
| Styling | Conventional sedan aesthetics | Distinctive wedge shape |
The Insight's advantages include more conventional styling that appeals to buyers who don't want their vehicle to scream "hybrid," along with a quieter, more refined driving experience. The Prius counters with slightly more cargo versatility thanks to its hatchback design.
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Trim Level Breakdown
Honda offered the Insight in three well-equipped trim levels, each building on the last with more premium features:
Insight LX ($22,830)
The entry point includes all the essential hybrid technology plus Honda Sensing, LED lighting, and a 7-inch display.
Insight EX ($24,060)
Adds the 8-inch Display Audio system, smart entry, and upgraded interior materials.
Insight Touring ($28,090)
The luxury option with leather seats, 10-speaker audio, navigation, and all available premium features.
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Driving Experience
Behind the wheel, the Insight feels more like a conventional gasoline vehicle than many hybrids, with smooth power delivery and predictable handling. The electric motor's instant torque provides responsive acceleration from stops, while the gasoline engine operates mostly unnoticed during cruising.
Three selectable drive modes tailor the experience:
- Econ: Maximizes efficiency through throttle mapping and climate control adjustments
- Normal: Balanced performance for everyday driving
- Sport: Sharpens throttle response and adjusts hybrid system behavior for more enthusiastic driving
The regenerative braking system offers three levels of intensity controlled by steering wheel paddles, allowing drivers to choose how aggressively the car recaptures energy during deceleration.
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Ownership Experience
Honda hybrids have proven exceptionally reliable over time, with many Insight owners reporting trouble-free operation well beyond 100,000 miles. Key ownership advantages include:
- Hybrid Battery Warranty: 8 years/100,000 miles coverage
- Low Maintenance: Regenerative braking reduces brake wear significantly
- Fuel Savings: Potential to save $3,000+ in fuel costs over 5 years compared to average compact cars
- Resale Value: Honda's strong reputation supports excellent retained value
Who Should Consider the 2019 Honda Insight?
The Insight makes the most sense for buyers who:
- Want hybrid efficiency without unconventional styling
- Prefer a traditional sedan over a hatchback
- Value a quiet, refined driving experience
- Appreciate Honda's reputation for reliability
- Need a comfortable commuter with occasional backseat use
It may not be the best choice for those who frequently transport large items (due to the fixed trunk opening) or prioritize maximum cargo versatility.
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The Verdict
The 2019 Honda Insight represents the maturation of hybrid technology - a vehicle that no longer requires compromises to deliver exceptional efficiency. With its premium positioning, refined driving dynamics, and class-leading fuel economy, the Insight successfully bridges the gap between eco-conscious motoring and mainstream appeal.
While the Toyota Prius remains the hybrid benchmark in terms of brand recognition, the Insight offers a compelling alternative for buyers who want their environmental responsibility wrapped in more conventional packaging. Honda's third attempt at the Insight finally delivers on the promise of a no-compromise hybrid sedan.
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Last Updated On Apr, 02-2025