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Why did Honda discontinue Insight?

Honda discontinued its Insight hybrid model in 2014 after a decade-long production run. The Insight was Honda's first dedicated hybrid vehicle, introduced in 1999 as a competitor to the Toyota Prius. However, the Insight struggled to gain traction in the market and was ultimately discontinued due to poor sales performance.


Reasons for the Insight's Discontinuation


There were several key factors that led to the discontinuation of the Honda Insight:



  • Lack of Competitiveness - The Insight was not able to match the fuel efficiency, performance, and overall appeal of the Toyota Prius, which had become the dominant player in the hybrid market.

  • Outdated Design - The Insight's design was seen as outdated and less stylish compared to newer hybrid models on the market.

  • Poor Sales - Despite Honda's efforts to update and improve the Insight over the years, it never gained significant sales traction. In its final year of production, the Insight sold only around 4,000 units in the U.S.

  • Shift in Honda's Hybrid Strategy - As Honda shifted its focus to developing more advanced hybrid and electric vehicle technologies, the Insight no longer fit into the company's long-term plans.


Ultimately, the Insight was unable to compete effectively in the growing hybrid market, leading Honda to discontinue the model in favor of other more successful hybrid offerings.


Honda's Hybrid Lineup Today


Since discontinuing the Insight, Honda has expanded its hybrid lineup to include models like the Accord Hybrid, Civic Hybrid, and CR-V Hybrid. These newer hybrid vehicles have been more successful in the market, offering improved fuel efficiency, performance, and styling compared to the original Insight.


Honda continues to invest heavily in hybrid and electric vehicle technology, with plans to electrify its entire lineup by 2030. The company's focus has shifted away from the Insight towards developing more competitive and advanced hybrid and electric models to meet evolving consumer demands.

What is the common problem in Honda Insight?


A number of people who own a Honda Insight have shared that they're facing problems with the car's gear system that doesn't shift gears in the usual way. They've noticed things like the car shaking when they speed up, problems with the gears not staying in place, or taking a while to start moving properly.



What is Honda replacing the Insight with?


In April 2022, Honda announced that the Insight would be discontinued after the 2022 model year, with production ending in June. It has been replaced by a new Civic Hybrid.



How long should a Honda Insight last?


150,000-200,000 miles
According to motorandwheels.com, a typical Honda Insight will last 150,000-200,000 miles before the vehicle starts to fall apart.



Why aren t Honda Insights popular?


This could partially be to the Insight having a record of being severely underpowered. The first-generation Insight had a paltry 80 horsepower combined while the next iteration only upped that number by 18 to a total of 98 horsepower. The third generation does slightly better with power, but still does not shine.



Why did Honda stop making hybrids?


Honda's hybrid lineup couldn't compete against its rivals, and so the Insight and Euro-spec CR-Z were axed. The American market CR-Z was retired two years later, with Honda subsequently phasing out its traditional IMA powertrain in favor of not one but two new unique powertrain designs.



Why is the Honda Insight being discontinued?


Honda discontinued the Insight primarily due to declining sales and shifting consumer preferences. The Insight, which was Honda's first mass-produced hybrid vehicle, faced stiff competition from other hybrids and electric vehicles, particularly the Toyota Prius.



How long do Honda Insights last for?


150,000-200,000 miles
According to motorandwheels.com, a typical Honda Insight will last 150,000-200,000 miles before the vehicle starts to fall apart.



Is Honda Insight good for long drives?


Amazingly, this trip of 1,027 miles burned only 23.49 gallons of gas (three fill-ups for the Insight's small tank) and a cost just under $90 (at expensive California prices). This equates to 43 mpg, which confirms that although the Insight is better suited to city sprinting, it's good for the long haul, if you are.



Why did Honda Insight fail?


According to motorandwheels.com, the earlier models (particularly 2000-2006) faced issues with the battery system, leading to unexpected failures and replacements. Transmission problems have also been reported, especially in the 2012 model, as mentioned previously.



How much does it cost to replace a Honda Insight hybrid battery?


The average cost for a Honda Insight Hybrid High Voltage Battery Replacement is between $3,843 and $3,919. Labor costs are estimated between $292 and $368 while parts are typically priced around $3,551.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.