More than ever before, car buyers are opting for fuel-efficient
vehicles, and that includes a growing interest in hybrid models. Topping the
list of the most popular hybrid cars in the United States are the Toyota Prius
and the Honda Insight. A side-by side comparison is helpful in determining
which car is better suited for you and your family’s needs.
Comparing Fuel Economy
Both the Toyota Prius and the Honda Insight get better fuel economy than most
cars on the road today. According to EPA estimates, the Prius gives an average
of 51 miles per gallon under city conditions and 48 miles per gallon on the
highway. For city miles, the Insight offers noticeably less in comparison,
coming in with 41 miles per gallon for city driving and 44 miles per gallon on
the highway.
Engines and Power
The Toyota Prius and the Honda Insight both use regular gasoline. Their engines
differ in size and power; the Prius has a 98-horsepower, 1.8-liter I-4 engine compared
to the Insight’s 88-horsepower, 1.3-liter I-4. This gives the Prius the edge as
far as power and pick-up speed. Both cars offer the same transmission: a two-speed
CVT with OD. However, the Insight offers an additional option of a transmission
with auto-manual shifting capability for a sportier ride.
Comparing the Interior of the Two Vehicles
When it comes to hybrid vehicles, car buyers have traditionally been concerned
with the size. For those who may remember, the original Insight only offered
seating for two. As it has become larger, its fuel economy has been reduced.
The Toyota Prius has made strides in improving its design to allow for more
space for the driver and passengers while maintaining its fuel economy. When stacking
the Prius up against the Insight, the Prius offers more headroom, legroom, and
cargo space for five passengers.
Comparing Performance Options
The Toyota Prius offers a choice of three driving modes that can be used for
different driving experiences: ECO, Power, and EV. There are only two
performance modes for the Honda Insight: Standard and ECON.
Comparing Safety Features
Both the Prius and the Insight offer safety features such as ABS brakes and
advanced airbag systems, but only the Prius includes a driver knee airbag for
additional protection. For increased safety, audio and climate controls are
accessible from the steering wheel, but Toyota has taken steps in making this
even safer. Similar
to the technology used in fighter jets, buttons are in the driver’s line of
vision in the area of the speedometer to avoid added distraction.[M1]
When a button is pressed, it becomes illuminated so that the driver knows which
one they are pressing.
Models and Pricing of the Prius and the Insight
All models of the Prius and Insight are hatchbacks. The Insight only comes in
three, four-door models that start at a MSRP of $18,600 for the base model, and
prices increase to $22,065 for the EX model. The Prius comes in 5 models with
prices starting at $24,200 for the 5-door Hatchback Two and rising to $30,005
for the Hatchback Five.
Dayton Toyota of South Brunswick invites you to come and check out the Prius
for yourself and perform your own Prius vs. Insight comparison.
