Detroit show: Honda Insight reborn as sedan

HONDA has announced the Insight nameplate will return after being discontinued in 2014 with the new hybrid model being reborn as a five-seater sedan that will not make its way into Australian showrooms.

The new Insight will make its public debut at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit next month, ahead of an American on-sale date around the middle of next year for the left-hand-drive-only model.

While few details have been revealed of the new Insight, Honda has confirmed that, unlike previous iterations, it will be powered by the car-maker’s two-motor hybrid system and will offer comparable fuel economy to other hybrid vehicles.

Honda also said it will take “an entirely new approach with the styling, packaging, premium features and performance desired by mainstream car buyers”.

The release of the Insight next year marks the next step in Honda’s plans to make two-thirds of its global vehicle sales electrified models by 2030.

Stylistically, the Insight draws parallels to the new Civic with a wide, narrow front fascia featuring a V-shaped grille topped with a chrome strip that runs into the headlight cluster.

A BMW-like three-intake lower grille gives it a sporty look, as do the large alloy wheels and liftback-like profile.

Rear design is minimalist with a simple bumper and an LED tail-light cluster that wraps around toward the sloping D-pillar.

Interior sketches reveal a generously-sized cabin with a central infotainment display, active safety technologies on the instrument cluster and buttons in place of a great shift lever.

American Honda Motor Co general manager and senior vice president of automobile sales Henio Arcangeli said the Insight will appeal to green tech heads and traditional motorists alike.

“With its sophisticated styling, dynamic stance, ample interior space and best-in-class performance, the all-new Insight embodies Honda’s approach to creating electrified vehicles without the typical trade-offs,” he said.

“You won’t have to be an electrification advocate to appreciate the new Insight – it’s a great car in its own right, independent of what’s happening under the hood.”