What to Buy: 2000–2006 Honda Insight

From the October 2022 issue Car and Driver.

The first generation Honda Insight is the kind of modern collection that you can enjoy while driving. Even though it is unique enough to attract views to Cars & Coffee, it is still fuel efficient and environmentally friendly. The teardrop and scuff styling on the rear wheels gives it the look of a science experiment, but underneath, it’s a typical Honda driving experience—the Insight is reliable, light on the feet, and more appealing with a manual transmission.

Score

Part of Insight’s appeal is its rarity, as global sales have nearly crossed 17,000 over seven years. That means they are only sold sporadically. Condition is far more important than mileage, especially since Insight ownership is more about a unique driving experience than a potential investment. Expect to pay above $10,000 for a manual transmission version in good condition. CVT-equipped models are sold at a lower price; $7500 is enough money to buy a low mileage example.

Machine

All first-generation Insights come with a 1.0-liter inline-three engine paired to Honda’s Integrated Motor Assist hybrid system. The debut car with a five-speed manual makes 73 horsepower at 5700 rpm and 91 pound-feet of torque from 2000 rpm—useful on city streets. From 2001, a continuously variable automatic transmission is available, albeit with slightly reduced torque. Really, five speeds is what you want for the incredible EPA highway fuel economy, which starts at 70 mpg on the window sticker (70!).

Problem Areas

Electrification pessimists complain about potential battery replacements, and their concerns hold true in the case of the Insight. Battery packs last about a decade and rot faster if the car spends a lot of time parked. New packages can cost upwards of $2000, but DIY repairs are possible. Catalytic converter failure is another expensive fix, and second gear synchronization on the manual transmission is its weak point. Due to the age of the car and the small but enthusiastic community of owners, many of these issues may have been addressed.

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