Honda’s newest hybrid will be the 2019 Insight. The model looks to bridge the gap between conventional and hybrid drivers thanks to its clean, classic exterior and eco-friendly engine configuration. Here’s a small guide to this exciting new vehicle from Honda to help you get in the loop.
Handling
One of the major complaints that hybrid vehicles receive across manufacturers is acceleration power. Hybrid powertrains aren’t particularly well built for sudden, hard acceleration or sports-style handling. However, the 2019 Insight promises plenty of torque and horsepower to make driving the Insight feel more like handling a conventional vehicle. The Insight will have 151 horsepower and 197 pounds per feet of torque while still retaining excellent fuel efficiency at 55 miles to the gallon, combined.
There are also other elements that will add to the handling ability of the Insight and are distinctive to Honda engineering. The Insight will come loaded with variable-ratio dual-pinion electric power steering as well as an independent suspension.
Like Honda’s other hybrids, it also gets mechanical and regenerative braking that will ensure reliable braking while providing the hybrid battery with power. These together will allow the Insight to operate as smoothly in crowded city streets as it does on long road trips.
Technology
Honda has committed itself to put the best technology in its vehicles and the Insight is no exception. Smartphone integration is available for both iOS and Android smartphones and can be accessed via the beautiful 8-inch infotainment touchscreen. There are both knob and hard keys outside of the touch screen and the entire grouping was designed for ease of access and reducing distraction.
The Insight can also be equipped with Honda’s advanced active safety system via the Honda Sensing suite, which includes automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, forward-collision warning, and lane-departure warning. Honda LaneWatch is available on the EX and Touring trims. Blind-spot warning can also be added as an additional feature.
Style
There have been previous incarnations of the Insight, with the first debuting in 1999 and the second in 2009, but this sedan has little in common with its predecessors besides all being powered by hybrid powertrains. The 2019 Insight takes its inspiration from Honda’s long lineage of stylish sedans and compact vehicles, fitting snugly between the Accord and the Civic with its beautiful style lines, smooth profile, and elegantly designed grille.
The interior is similarly crafted. While the Insight may pull from Honda’s traditions, it is still a thoroughly modern vehicle, with a minimalist interior design that is refined and stylish at once, cleanly incorporating the latest dashboard technology. The overall schema flows from the dash to the back seat for a cohesive aesthetic. Thanks to its extended Civic-based underpinnings, the Insight is roomy and comfortable for both driver and passengers.
The 2019 Honda Insight will be available for purchase in summer of 2018. As one of the newest in Honda’s line up of hybrids, it joins an already impressive group of vehicles and is sure to make its mark on the hybrid market.
Photo by getaiwan | Licensed under cc BY 1.0
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