NAIAS 2018: Honda debuts all-new Insight Prototype

The all-new Honda Insight Prototype made its world debut at the 2018 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS). This premium compact sedan is the Japanese brand’s latest addition to their rapidly growing electric vehicle (EV) lineup.

Looking from the side, its silhouette sort of reminds us of the all-new Civic with its hatchback like appearance. But once you move up front, you’ll see the difference as it bears Honda’s signature “flying wing” grille flanked by sharper LED headlights. Its rear also distinguishes it from the rest of the brand’s sedans with chiselled lines and larger taillights.

Inside, Honda says that the Insight will offer class-leading passenger space thanks to its long wheelbase platform. This will be complemented with leather-clad seats, seven-inch digital LCD gauge cluster, and an eight-inch touchscreen display that’s Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capable.

Under the hood, it will come with Honda’s third generation two-motor hybrid system featuring an efficient 1.5L Atkinson cycle engine. The carmaker expects that this will have a fuel economy of somewhere around 21 km/L.

Aside from the sleek design, posh cabin, and supposedly fuel-efficient engine, the Insight will be equipped with a host of safety features. It will be packed with the LaneWatch, Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Lane Departure Warning, Road Departure Mitigation, Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow, and the new Traffic Sign Recognition.

The Honda Insight will be manufactured alongside the Civic and CR-V. It’s set to make its official launch later this year and will join the Clarity series and Accord Hybrid in US dealerships. With the excise tax taking effect already, wouldn’t it be nice if Honda brought some of its EVs locally?