Did the Honda Insight come in manual?
Yes, the Honda Insight was available with a manual transmission option. The Insight, Honda's pioneering hybrid vehicle, was first introduced in 1999 and offered both manual and automatic transmission choices throughout its production run.
The Honda Insight's Manual Transmission
The Honda Insight was designed to be a fuel-efficient, compact hybrid vehicle. When it was first launched, the Insight was available with a 5-speed manual transmission in addition to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) option. The manual transmission allowed drivers to have more control over the vehicle's performance and fuel economy.
The manual transmission Insight was powered by a 1.0-liter 3-cylinder gasoline engine paired with an electric motor. This powertrain combination provided good acceleration and impressive fuel efficiency, with the manual version achieving an EPA-estimated 61 mpg in the city and 68 mpg on the highway.
Insight Transmission Options Over the Years
- 1st Generation (1999-2006): Available with 5-speed manual or CVT automatic
- 2nd Generation (2009-2014): Available with 6-speed manual or CVT automatic
- 3rd Generation (2019-present): Available with CVT automatic only, no manual option
As the Insight evolved over the years, Honda eventually discontinued the manual transmission option, focusing solely on the more efficient and user-friendly CVT automatic for later model years. However, the availability of a manual gearbox in the earlier Insight models appealed to driving enthusiasts who wanted more control over the hybrid's performance.p>
