The new and upgraded 2012 Honda Insight
2012 Honda Insight
The 2012 Honda Insight was launched by Honda Australia, bringing with it several modifications and improvements over the older model, both in its looks as well as its features and efficiency.
The exterior design of the 2012 Insight has a couple of changes over its predecessor, starting with the new illuminated grille, LED daytime running lights, a differently designed front bumper as well as revised tail-lights.
The rear of the car was a subject of criticism for the old model, and Honda have stepped to the plate and took a number of steps to improve rear visibility. This has lead to the new model featuring a thinner tailgate spoiler as well as a revised roof lining, a new rear wiper motor and a longer wiper blade, one might say that Honda were actually listening to their customers.
There have been quite a few changes made to the engine and transmission, a power-saving electric fuel pump has been installed which in conjunction with the improved aerodynamics and low-rolling resistance tyres, the new Insight’s economy is cut by 6.5 percent. This bring the official rating down to 4.3 litres per 100km when the car runs on the combined cycle. The 6.5 percent won’t seem like that much except when you consider that it puts it 0.4/100km off the pace of its main hybrid rival, the Toyota Prius. The fuel efficiency wars are fought in tenths of percentages.
The interior design of the new Insight has seen some overhauls as well, there’s a central console storage bin and armrest now, and it the model features refreshed meters and gauges and new front headrests alongside upgraded seat materials. The rear-seat headroom was also slightly improved thanks to the new roof liner an different seat design.
It is interesting to note that the two existing model variants will have the same price, the VTi having new wing mirrors with side indicators as well as integrated Bluetooth with wheel-mounted controls, and the VTi-L will add a leather-bound gear knob.
