What type of gas does a Honda Insight take?
The Honda Insight runs on regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher in the United States and is compatible with standard E10 fuel. No premium gasoline is required, though higher-octane fuel is permissible where available. This guidance applies to the current hybrid model, but fuel specifications can vary by country, so always check the local owner’s manual.
Fuel requirements for the Insight
Understanding the gasoline compatibility helps ensure optimal efficiency and longevity of the hybrid powertrain. The following points cover the essentials for most markets.
US specifications
For the US market, Honda specifies regular unleaded gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 87 (AKI). The engine is designed to run on E10 gasoline (fuel containing up to 10% ethanol). Using higher-octane fuel does not generally provide a performance advantage for this hybrid.
Core US fuel guidelines:
- Regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 AKI or higher.
- Compatible with E10 fuel (gas containing up to 10% ethanol).
- Avoid using fuels with higher ethanol content such as E15 or E85 unless explicitly approved by Honda for your vehicle.
These guidelines help ensure efficient hybrid performance and protect the fuel system.
Global fuel considerations
Across markets outside the US, the Honda Insight generally uses regular unleaded gasoline, but octane labeling and ethanol allowances vary by country. Always refer to the local owner's manual or Honda regional materials to confirm octane requirements and ethanol compatibility. In many regions, fuels with up to 10% ethanol are common; some areas may have restrictions on higher ethanol blends.
When refueling internationally, ensure you use the appropriate octane and ethanol content for your model year and market.
Operational notes and best practices
Beyond octane and ethanol compatibility, proper fueling practices help maintain hybrid efficiency and longevity. This includes using fresh fuel, ensuring the fuel cap seals properly, and refueling when the tank is reasonably full to prevent condensation and fuel quality issues. If you notice performance changes after refueling, consult a Honda service center.
Owner's manuals might also specify service intervals related to fuel systems, which can differ by market and model year.
Summary
In short, the Honda Insight typically takes regular unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum in the US) and is compatible with E10. Check your local owner’s manual for exact octane guidelines and ethanol allowances in your region. Following these guidelines helps maximize fuel efficiency and the longevity of the hybrid system.
