Do Honda Insight seats fold down?

The short answer: yes—the current Honda Insight offers foldable rear seats (a 60/40 split) to expand cargo space. The original first-generation Insight (1999–2006) was a two-seat hatchback and did not have a fold-down rear bench.

What folding seats mean for the Insight

Understanding how the folding seats work helps you gauge cargo versatility for daily use, shopping trips, and trips with longer items.

Current generation (2019–present)

The modern Honda Insight is a five-seat sedan or hatchback-like sedan in some markets, and it includes a rear bench that folds down in a 60/40 split. This allows you to fold one side or both sections of the rear seat to create a flatter loading floor for longer items while still accommodating a passenger or two in the rear. The folding mechanism is designed to be straightforward, typically involving release levers or straps at the top of the seatbacks or accessible from the trunk.

Key folding features for the current Insight include a split rear seat and a fairly flat load floor when folded, which enhances cargo adaptability for groceries, luggage, or equipment.

In practice, you can tailor the seating configuration to balance passenger seating with cargo space, depending on your daily needs.

Historical overview by generation

The folding-rear-seat feature has varied across generations. The following overview highlights the general capability by generation, noting notable differences where applicable.

Fold-down seating capability by generation:

1. Gen 1 (1999–2006): Two-seat layout; no fold-down rear seat because there was no full rear bench to fold.


2. Gen 2 (2009–2014): Five-seat configuration with a rear bench that typically offers a 60/40 split-fold option to expand cargo space.


3. Gen 3 (2019–present): Five-seat layout with a 60/40 split-folding rear seat, providing a flat loading floor for larger items.

Each generation improved interior versatility, but the most consistent pattern among later models is a rear seatback designed to fold flat to increase cargo capacity. Always verify the exact folding mechanism for your specific model year and trim level, as configurations can vary slightly by market or option package.

How to fold the rear seats (general steps)

To maximize cargo space, you typically fold the rear seatbacks using a release mechanism. The exact steps can vary by year and trim, but the general process is similar across modern Insights.

• Adjust the rear seat to place it in the upright position if needed, and ensure headrests don’t obstruct folding.


• Locate the release lever or strap at the top of the rear seatback or in the trunk/cargo area.


• Engage the release to unlock the seatback, then fold the seatback forward until it lies flat with the load floor.


• For a 60/40 split, fold the desired portion (one side or both) to suit your cargo and passenger needs.


• Check for a smooth, flat surface and secure any items to prevent shifting during transit.

After folding, you’ll typically have a substantially larger, flatter cargo area, suitable for longer or bulkier items while preserving some rear passenger capability depending on how the seatbacks are configured.

Practical considerations for buyers and owners

When evaluating a Honda Insight—new or used—consider how often you’ll need the extra cargo space and whether all rear seats will be used by passengers. If you regularly carry long items or a lot of gear, the fold-down rear seats offer clear benefits. If you’re buying used, verify the folding mechanism works smoothly and that there are no rips or wear that would hinder folding or securing loads.

Summary

• Current Insight (2019–present) generally features a 60/40 split-folding rear seat for expanded cargo space.


• The original 1999–2006 Insight was a two-seat model with no fold-down rear bench.


• Folding mechanisms typically involve release levers or straps on the seatbacks or trunk area and allow folding one or both sections for a flat loading floor.


• Always check your exact model year and trim for precise folding capabilities and operation.

What is the common problem in Honda Insight?

Common problems for the Honda Insight include hybrid battery degradation, CVT transmission shudder, and issues with the automatic emergency brake system and headlights. Other frequent complaints involve the climate control system (specifically the AC compressor and blower motor), engine performance issues, and various electrical problems like blank display screens and charging faults. 
Hybrid and electrical system problems 

• Hybrid battery failure: This is a very common issue, leading to warning lights, reduced acceleration, and decreased fuel economy. 
• Electrical system faults: Owners report various issues, including error messages, battery charging problems, and faults with the 12V battery that can prevent the engine from restarting. 
• Automatic emergency brake: The system has been linked to problems and complaints, including false alerts and issues with forward collision avoidance. 
• Headlight problems: Dipped beam headlights can fail, sometimes due to heat damage to the switch or wiring. 
• Display screen issues: Blank screens, freezing, and reboots on the infotainment or navigation screen have been reported. 

Powertrain and engine issues 

• CVT transmission shudder: A common complaint is a shaking or shuddering sensation during acceleration, often due to a worn start clutch in the CVT.
• Engine hesitation or surge: This can be caused by issues like clogged EGR passages.
• Rough idle: A faulty EVAP emission control solenoid can cause the engine to idle roughly.
• Fuel system: Problems with the fuel cap and filler neck can trigger a "check engine" light. 

Other common problems

• Climate control: Issues with the AC compressor, blower motor, and refrigerant leaks have been reported. 
• Body and paint: Some models have experienced paint issues like chipping or peeling, and there have been reports of the hood vibrating or shaking at highway speeds. 
• Brake system: The regenerative braking system can sometimes feel spongy or less responsive. 
• Structural issues: Some owners have reported the hood flipping up while driving, or even a moonroof exploding. 

This video discusses common issues with the Honda Insight, including problems with the automatic emergency brake, CVT transmission, and the hybrid battery: 50sVerdier 400YouTube · Feb 4, 2022

How to put seats down in Honda Insight?

The seat-back can be released from inside the car or inside the trunk. To fold down either side of the seat- back from inside the car, insert the master key in the lock on the rear shelf. To fold down the driver's side, turn the key clockwise, pull down the top of the seat-back, then release the key.

Why are Honda insights so rare?

Why Was the Honda Insight Discontinued? Despite its efficiency and strong hybrid technology, the Honda Insight was discontinued after the 2022 model year. Honda made this decision as part of a strategic shift to streamline its hybrid lineup and focus on hybrid versions of its best-selling models.

What are the disadvantages of the Honda Insight?

Cons: Limited trunk space: Due to the hybrid battery, the trunk space is a little smaller than what you'd find in some non-hybrid sedans. Performance: While it's perfectly fine for daily driving, it's not a sporty car by any means. If you want something with punchy acceleration, you might feel it lacks power.