The Honda Insight is a hybrid compact car that first went on sale as a 2010 model.
It’s known for its smooth and pleasant driving characteristics, impressive fuel economy and polished design.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the Insight’s best and worst years…
Table of Contents
Here’s The Short Answer To What The Best And Worst Years For The Honda Insight Are:
The best Honda Insight model years are 2022, 2021, 2020, 2014, 2006, 2005, and 2004. The worst model years of the Insight are 2019, 2013, 2012, 2011, and 2010. This is based on auto industry reviews, NHTSA statistics, reported problems, and consumer feedback.
What Are The Best Years For The Honda Insight?
Over the years Honda has produced a lot of great Insights, listed below are the best of the best.
2022 Honda Insight
The 2022 Honda Insight is our top pick as it’s the most refined and fine-tuned model to date, boasting impressive scores from auto critics and owners alike.
It also has the latest tech, high mpg numbers and like many of its predecessors, shares many of the best aspects of the Honda Civic.
Unfortunately, the affordable entry-level LX trim was removed from the line-up for 2022.
In addition to this, the Insight was discontinued, wrapping up its third generation.
- Edmunds: 4.8 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.3 / 5.0
- JD Power: 77 / 100
2022 Honda Insight, Edmunds review:
“It has been 3 years since I got my 2019 Insight. It has been such a great car that I also just purchased a 2022 model. Updated features and a great improvement. We now have a 2010 with 267,900 miles and no repairs, a 2019 and now a 2022. Best car for the money. Also 55 MPG helps also”
2021 Honda Insight
The 2021 Insight is another good choice when shopping for this delightful compact sedan that happens to get great fuel economy.
For 2021 a conventional blind-spot monitoring system is featured on the Insight, a warning light is used to signal that a car is in the blind spot.
This was a departure from the patented LaneWatch rear-facing camera system which only provided a blind-spot view on the passenger side.
As for paint colors, a new shade known as Radiant Red Metallic was added to the mix.
- Edmunds: 4.3 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6 / 5.0
- JD Power: 78 / 100
2021 Honda Insight, Edmunds review:
“Love the car, great drive and looks great. Getting better than projected MPG. Needs to improve three areas, 1- needs a spare tire, 2- road noise is more than I like even with the standard Michelin green tires, 3- passenger seat has no way to elevate or lower seat. *Update – The Insight is still running fine, no issues, 55.5mpg”
2020 Honda Insight
The 2020 Insight offers a more refined and satisfying driving experience than what you typically get from other mainstream hybrids whilst also having quick acceleration.
No significant changes were introduced for this model since the previous model year (the 2019 Honda Insight) was the reintroduction of the hybrid vehicle into the market.
It is still worth mentioning, however, that a new color was added, known as Platinum White Pearl.
- Edmunds: 4.8 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6 / 5.0
- JD Power: 77 / 100
2020 Honda Insight, Edmunds review:
“2020 Insight EX has given me amazing mpg, especially in traffic. Value also comes from the technology, and it looks fabulous. I trust Honda’s build quality, and for the price you get more than you would expect, but don’t expect a luxury ride, just a better ride than a Prius, and looks way better than a Prius, in my opinion. Putting it into Sport mode, I find it’s surprisingly peppy and fun. Again, for its price, any “cons” are easy to deal with. I love this car.”
2014 Honda Insight
Despite not being able to match the popularity of the Prius, the 2014 Insight is known for its low ownership costs and low retail price.
This model year stands out due to its reliability, having received very few complaints from owners.
No significant changes were done to the 2014 Honda Insight.
- Edmunds: 5.0 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.4 / 5.0
- JD Power: NA
2014 Honda Insight, Edmunds review:
“My Insight – 2014, that is! I have owned my 2014 Insight for 3 years as of May 2020 and it has been an outstanding vehicle. Mine is the EX without navigation and otherwise loaded. I use a Garmin Drive 60 for GPS and it fits nicely on the dash without any windshield obstruction. I average 40 MPG in the city and 50 MPG on the highway. I have always used premium gasoline; however, the lower grades are rated as OK. With this milage the price difference in grades is minuscule…”
2006 Honda Insight
Although an older model, the 2006 Insight is a top pick thanks to its exotic aluminum construction, impressive fuel economy and lots of standard equipment.
No significant changes were introduced for this model year and it is pretty much identical to the 2005 model.
- Edmunds: 4.7 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7 / 5.0
- JD Power: NA
2006 Honda Insight, Edmunds review:
“If you have a long commute to work like I do, this is the car for you. I have a 120 mile round trip each day from work. I was driving a blazer before gas was even breaking $2.00/gal and was spending more each month on gas than my car payment. I still have the blazer, because I live in New England, and this car will not get you out of the snow. It has smooth pick up, and at 75-80mph I still average 52mpg. You can’t beat that.”
2005 Honda Insight
The 2005 Honda Insight received hardly any complaints and it is another great choice for those looking for a bargain.
This model is essentially a carbon copy of the 2004 model year and both were praised for their amazing fuel economy.
These 2004, 2005 and 2006 models were fairly low in production numbers which make for exclusivity.
- Edmunds: 4.8 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7 / 5.0
- JD Power: NA
2005 Honda Insight, Edmunds review:
“Great car for two, compliments my other vehicle (LX470) nicely. Fun to drive, small enough, great design. I just love it for fuel economy, it gets me anywhere for basically nothing, still stylish and great dashboard.”
2004 Honda Insight
We wouldn’t necessarily advise opting for a vehicle as old as the 2004 Insight but it is undoubtedly a great car.
This model year gained a standardized CD-equipped audio system with a total of four speakers around the vehicle.
In addition to this, the fuel consumption gauge now has two colors for better distinction – green and red.
In terms of safety features, the 2004 model year, along with all other Honda vehicles produced in this year, introduced a seatbelt reminder system.
- Edmunds: 4.7 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7 / 5.0
- JD Power: NA
2004 Honda Insight, Edmunds review:
“For economy, the only car I feel could beat the Insight would be an electric car recharged with solar panels. Its aerodynamics makes it almost unaffected by wind for safety as well as energy efficiency. Only drawback is that it carries only 2 people, but the space is very ample and comfortable for those 2 people. I know I can race any car on the road to the end of our tanks, and win. The place where it wins the nicest is at the pump at every fillup.”
Consumer Scores For Best Honda Insight Years
Below is a table that presents all the consumer ratings of the best Honda Insight model years from reputable vehicle websites:
| Model Year | Edmunds Consumer Rating | Kelley Blue Book Consumer Rating | JD Power Consumer Rating |
| 2022 Honda Insight | 4.8 / 5.0 | 4.3 / 5.0 | 77 / 100 |
| 2021 Honda Insight | 4.3 / 5.0 | 4.6 / 5.0 | 78 / 100 |
| 2020 Honda Insight | 4.8 / 5.0 | 4.6 / 5.0 | 77 / 100 |
| 2014 Honda Insight | 5.0 / 5.0 | 4.4 / 5.0 | NA |
| 2006 Honda Insight | 4.7 / 5.0 | 4.7 / 5.0 | NA |
| 2005 Honda Insight | 4.8 / 5.0 | 4.7 / 5.0 | NA |
| 2004 Honda Insight | 4.7 / 5.0 | 4.7 / 5.0 | NA |
What Are The Worst Years For The Honda Insight?
The Honda Insight has also been on the receiving end of several complaints.
Be cautious of the model years listed below.
2019 Honda Insight
The 2019 Honda Insight had a number of electronics-related issues, primarily revolving around the functionality of the rear-view camera.
A number of reports have mentioned that the rear-view camera was unable to capture imagery accurately, with colors being inaccurate and objects being blurry.
In other cases, reports have stated that the camera shuts off on its own and refuses to power on.
The 2019 Insight had a total of 8 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 54 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
Common problems:
- Dashboard creaks and crackling sound
- Backup camera problems
- Infotainment system crashes
- Sensors cause spontaneous braking
2013 Honda Insight
The 2013 Honda Insight had its fair share of issues, most of which were engine-related, which is arguably one of the worst car problems to have.
According to reports, while driving at relatively low speeds, the vehicle would suddenly stall and several dashboard warning lights would pop up.
Upon inspection, it was discovered that the problem stemmed from excessive oil consumption due to faulty piston rings and pistons.
Here’s one owner’s account:
“My 2013 Honda Insight engine died due to excessive oil consumption. I just had my oil changed 2 weeks before this. The dealership said I need a new short block and head due to one of the pistons melting down and breaking 4 out of the 8 spark plugs. I have the extended warranty through Honda Care but they refuse to fix it due to the honda service bulletin #11-033. The dealer said it would cost $7000 to $10000 out of pocket for me. I still owe on this car and can’t afford the fix.”
The 2013 Insight had a total of 34 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 53 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
Common problems:
- Excessive oil consumption
- Engine blew up
- Melted exhaust valves
- Tire pressure drops
2012 Honda Insight
Similar to the 2013 model year, the 2012 Honda Insight also had engine and oil-related issues.
Reports have stated a bad odor from oil leakage and excessive burning of oil.
The smell was also accompanied by shaking and rattling while driving which eventually led to the car stalling and in some instances, the engine blew up.
Owners testimony:
“My Honda is burning oil from the engine. No leaks. I can get a oil change today and in 5 days I need more oil. I’ve taken it to the dealership and see online 64 complaints of this code 1982a. Now the dealer wants me to pay almost 4,000 dollars to get it fixed when they know they sold me a lemon.”
The 2012 Insight had a total of 88 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 62 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
Common problems:
- Excessive oil consumption
- Uncomfortable seats
- Engine failure
2011 Honda Insight
The 2011 Honda Insight was affected by the infamous, exploding, shrapnel-shooting Takata airbag recall.
Numerous owners were left waiting an unreasonable amount of time to get this fixed.
This model year also received a number of engine-related complaints, although not on the same scale as the 2012 and 2013 models.
The 2011 Insight had a total of 11 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 47 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
Common problems:
- Excessive oil consumption
- Takata recall
- Headrests are uncomfortable
- Blind spots
2010 Honda Insight
The 2010 Honda Insight is the most problematic model year having racked up the most complaints.
Much like the 2011 Honda Insight, the 2010 Honda Insight was affected by the Takata recall.
On top of the airbag recall, owners have also reported that the airbags didn’t deploy in the event of a crash.
There were also a number of complaints regarding service brakes problems / unintended acceleration, as described by one owner below:
“While approaching a red light at a low speed of 35 mph or less, I began to apply the brakes which did not engage. I hit the driver who was stopped in front of me. The impact caused front-end damage and the air bag to deploy and required a trip to the ER. I am seeking assistance from my dealership and/or Honda.”
The 2010 Insight had a total of 17 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 143 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
Common problems:
- Paint peeling
- Brakes malfunctioned
- Uncomfortable seats
- Side curtain airbag failure
What Years Have The Most Complaints?
There are several Honda Insight model years, both old and new, that have received numerous complaints through the years.
| Model Year | Complaints (CarComplaints.com) | Problems (CarProblemZoo.com) |
| 2022 Honda Insight | NA | 15 |
| 2021 Honda Insight | NA | 7 |
| 2020 Honda Insight | 0 | 27 |
| 2019 Honda Insight | 8 | 54 |
| 2018 Honda Insight | NA | NA |
| 2017 Honda Insight | NA | NA |
| 2016 Honda Insight | NA | NA |
| 2015 Honda Insight | NA | NA |
| 2014 Honda Insight | 0 | 5 |
| 2013 Honda Insight | 34 | 53 |
| 2012 Honda Insight | 88 | 62 |
| 2011 Honda Insight | 11 | 47 |
| 2010 Honda Insight | 17 | 143 |
| 2009 Honda Insight | NA | NA |
| 2008 Honda Insight | NA | NA |
| 2007 Honda Insight | NA | NA |
| 2006 Honda Insight | 0 | 2 |
| 2005 Honda Insight | 0 | 2 |
| 2004 Honda Insight | 0 | 3 |
| 2003 Honda Insight | 0 | 6 |
| 2002 Honda Insight | 0 | 12 |
| 2001 Honda Insight | 0 | 17 |
| 2000 Honda Insight | 0 | 33 |
What Problems Do Honda Insights Have?
- Excessive oil consumption
- Uncomfortable seats
- Takata recall
- Brakes not working
- Engine failure
- Melted exhaust valves
- Tire pressure drops
What Are The Best Alternatives To The Honda Insight?
Although not the best-selling, the Honda Insight is still considered one of the best hybrid cars in the market.
The Insight secured the 5th spot (beating the Hyundai Elantra Hybrid and Toyota Prius), with a great score of 8.4 out of 10.
| Make & Model | Score | MSRP | Fuel Economy (MPG) |
| Hyundai Sonata Hybrid | 8.8 | $27,200 – $35,550 | City: 45 – 50 /Highway: 51 – 54 |
| Honda Accord Hybrid | 8.7 | $27,320 – $37,190 | City: 44 – 48 /Highway: 41 – 48 |
| Toyota Camry Hybrid | 8.7 | $27,480 – $32,920 | City: 44 – 51 /Highway: 47 – 53 |
| Toyota Avalon Hybrid | 8.5 | $37,350 – $43,650 | City: NA /Highway: NA |
| Honda Insight | 8.4 | $25,760 – $29,790 | City: 51 – 55 /Highway: 45 – 49 |
| Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | 8.3 | $24,400 – $29,000 | City: 49 – 53 /Highway: 52 – 56 |
| Toyota Prius | 7.8 | $25,075 – $33,370 | City: 51 – 58 /Highway: 47 – 53 |
| Toyota Corolla Hybrid | 7.7 | $23,750 | City: 53 /Highway: 52 |
| Toyota Prius Prime | 7.7 | $28,220 – $34,000 | City: NA /Highway: NA |
| Hyundai Ioniq | NA | $23,600 – $33,250 | City: NA /Highway: NA |
Source: cars.usnews.com
Related: 14 Best & Worst Honda Civic Years (With Facts & Statistics)
References
https://www.caranddriver.com/honda/insight
https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/honda/insight
https://www.carcomplaints.com/Honda/Insight/
https://www.carproblemzoo.com/honda/insight/
https://www.edmunds.com/honda/insight/
https://www.kbb.com/honda/insight/
https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2021/honda/insight
