Honda has released the first images for its all-new Insight hybrid ahead of its world debut at the 2018 North American International Motor Show (NAIAS) in Detroit in January 2018.
The Insight nameplate has been revived after a four-year break, with Honda discontinuing the previous generation model in 2014 in international markets. The model is expected to launch in the US in the summer of 2018. However, the new Insight is not expected to launch in the UK, while info about its India-entry is unknown.
However, Honda’s IMA - Integrated Motor Assist – hybrid system is expected to be used on other models in Honda’s line-up, such as the new CR-V for European markets. While the new CR-V will launch in India next year, it is unlikely to be offered in hybrid trim at launch.
Based on the images, the new Insight is less concept-like than its predecessor, and takes on a more conventional sedan-like shape. In fact, plenty of styling bits like the long hood, headlamps and tail-lamps seem to be inspired by the new Accord.
The first generation Insight was launched in 1999 internationally. It rivaled the Toyota Prius and was the first hybrid on sale in North America. The second-gen Honda Insight followed in 2009.
The new Insight is part of Honda’s goal of having electrified vehicles comprising two-thirds of its global sales by 2030. As part of its plans for India, which includes launching six new models in the next three years, Honda will concentrate on introducing hybrids in the near future rather than Battery Electric Vehicles, despite the lack of any incentives provided by India’s new Goods and Service Tax (GST). With this in mind, the new Insight could come to India, though there is no official word regarding a launch.
Dipan Sur
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Glenn Noronha
Dhruv Dhaka
