honda-insight 2010

UPDATE: Honda is now saying that the vehicle will now be available early, starting 4/22/2009, at a MSRP of only $18500. If so, it will underprice all other hybrids by $4000 or more.  Given the super cool styling of the vehicle (same as honda’s hydrogen car) this is quite  a deal. 

More updates on pricing and availability from the sleuths at Technology-Report as it becomes available.  1/2/2009.

By John R. Ghysels, Special to Technology-Report.com

Hybrid vehicles are the ultimate gadgets.  They represent efficiency and technology coming together in a tiny carbon footprint. 

Cost has kept many away from these wondrous machines. Most reviewers have for years insisted that the additional dollars needed for a hybrid never could make for a reasonable ROI. Even when gas prices soared, dealer mark-ups ruined any hope recovering the “hybrid premium” in cost.  Fortunately, just as the model cycle for the ever-popular Toyota Prius draws to a close, Honda is introducing a powerful new player into the hybrid market under the old name-plate of the previously phased out Insight. 

With an MSRP of just $19,000, the new four door Insight will be among the low price leaders, under pricing even Honda’s Civic Hybrid as well as the Prius. And, unlike many other larger car and SUV players, the Honda should deliver mileage and performance representative of a truly efficient Hybrid vehicle. 

Us hybrid owners are particular. In fact, we look with a bit of disdain on the dated tech of old, gas propulsion cars.  At least now we won’t have to pay as high a premium for the privilege of piloting a more efficient drive train. 

The new Honda Insight is expected for model year 2010.

John Ghysels, 12/20/2008