When it comes to hybrid cars, the Toyota Prius has reigned supreme for the past couple of decades. In fact, when most consumers think of a hybrid car, the Toyota Prius is most likely the first, and probably only, car that comes to mind.

Until 2019, when the Honda Insight came back into the market with a different body style and a revised powertrain. It might not be the household name like the Prius, but here are five ways in which we think the Insight is actually better than the Toyota legend.

Better city mpg

This one might seem like a cheap shot, but hybrids are all about getting the best fuel economy, and in that case, every mile counts. The 2020 Honda Insight achieves an EPA-estimated 55 mpg in the city, while the Prius is rated at 54 mpg.

Again, we realize it’s a cheap shot. So if it makes you feel better, the Prius gets 50 mpg on the highway, while the Insight is rated at 49.

Better looks

Looks are subjective and we will admit that the Prius has gotten better in the design department over time, but it still looks like an aerodynamic door stop.

The 2020 Honda Insight, on the other hand, was based on the 10^th generation Civic, so it boasts a sleek and sophisticated design that looks more like a normal sedan as opposed to a futuristic appliance on wheels.

Road departure mitigation

Both cars are equipped with their own set of driver-assist features; the Insight has Honda Sensing and the Prius has Safety Sense. They both have similar features including adaptive cruise control and pre-collision, however, the Insight also has Road Departure Mitigation. This feature applies some steering torque when the car outside the lanes without the turn signal activated.

More passenger room

The Toyota Prius might be a hatchback, which lends itself to having more cargo volume, however, the Insight has more passenger volume. The Insight measures in at 97.6 cubic feet while the Prius measures in at 93.1 cubic feet.

More power

While horsepower is probably one of the last stats that most prospective buyers will think about when purchasing a hybrid car, the Honda Insight does have the Toyota Prius beat. The Insight is powered by a 1.5-liter, four-cylinder engine that’s mated to a 129-horsepower electric motor for a combined power output of 151 horsepower.

How much is the Toyota Prius rated at? 121 horsepower. And that’s with a bigger, 1.8-liter engine. Who is more efficient now?

Give it a try

If you happen to be shopping for a hybrid car then the Toyota Prius is undoubtedly on your shortlist. However, we would suggest checking out the Honda Insight. Its sedan body style might better fit your needs, the power output might be better suited for your drive, and its looks might be better suited for your tastes. While the five features we listed here might not be enough to completely sway your decision, we do think they are worth some consideration.