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The Honda Insight is the brand’s compact hybrid sedan that’s known for its superior fuel economy and driving dynamics. It’s not a Toyota Prius, but the Insight has been around a tad longer than that legendary hybrid and it has gained a bit of a cult following in the process. But is it really a good idea to buy a used Honda Insight?

Consumer Reports gave the 2019 Honda Insight a five out of five

2019 Honda Insight Hybrid is on display at the 111th Annual Chicago Auto Show.
2019 Honda Insight Hybrid is on display at the 111th Annual Chicago Auto Show. | (Photo By Raymond Boyd/Getty Images)

If you’re thinking about buying a used Honda Insight, then it pays to know the basic rundown of the model. The first-generation Insight (2000-2006) was a two-door, two-seat hatchback that had a tiny 1.3-liter engine that was connected to an electric motor and achieved an EPA-estimated 61 mpg on the highway.

The second-generation Insight (2010-2014) was a four-door hatchback that was similar in shape to the Prius, but it didn’t get Prius-like fuel economy (41 mpg). And lastly, the third-generation Insight (2019-present) is a four-door sedan that looks like a Civic and achieves up to 55 mpg in the city.

No matter which Honda Insight you choose, you’re sure to be impressed by the car’s fuel economy and reliability. In fact, Consumer Reports gave the 2019 Insight a five out of five in the reliability category. If a used Honda Insight is on your shopping shortlist, then we recommend getting a newer one you’ll have the latest technology and maximum reliability.

The 2019 Honda Insight has a lot to offer

When shopping for a 2019 Honda Insight, you’ll be able to choose from three different trim levels: LX, EX, and Touring. Even in its base LX form, the Honda Insight comes with a multitude of safety features thanks to its Honda Sensing suite. That bundle of driver-assist features includes adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and lane-departure warning.

Kelley Blue Book notes that other notable standard features include power windows, a five-inch infotainment system, and a rearview camera. Stepping up to the EX and Touring trims will give you more tech-savvy features like a walk-away auto-lock system, Honda’s Lanewatch blindspot camera, and a larger eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple Carplay and Android Auto connectivity.

Under the hood of the 2019 Insight is a 151-hp, 1.5-liter engine that’s connected to an electric motor and paired to a CVT. The editors at KBB.com noted that there is some slight drone when driving the car, however, things can be quieted down via the car’s EV mode, which allows the car to drive solely under electric propulsion, given the right conditions.

How much does used Insight cost?

2010 Honda Insight on display
2010 Honda Insight on display | Getty Images

You can currently find 2019 Honda Insight LX models posted for sale nationwide for anywhere between $14,000 to $19,000. If you would rather have a higher trim level, then you can expect to pay in the low $20,000 range depending on the car’s mileage and location.

Opting for the second-generation Insight can save you a lot of cash as many of them are listed for around $5,000 to $10,000 nationwide. And lastly, the first-generation Insight model sells for around $5,000 to $10,000 as well. However, keep in mind that they don’t have as much room as the newer models and have a less powerful engine.

No matter which Honda Insight you choose, you really can’t go wrong. This reliable hybrid car is made to go the distance for a long time and it’s definitely worth the cost of entry.

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