Honda is marking the 25th anniversary of the Insight, America’s first mass-produced hybrid
While Toyota is often associated with hybrids, Honda is celebrating a significant milestone with the launch of its first hybrid in America 25 years ago—the innovative Insight, which embraced aerodynamics and electrification.
Though the original model wasn’t the most practical, it achieved an impressive EPA rating of 61 mpg city and 70 mpg highway. Even today, Honda points out that the first-generation Insight remains “America’s most fuel-efficient non-BEV ever.”
It’s worth noting that the EPA periodically updates its testing methods to reflect changes in vehicle technology, driver behavior, and driving conditions. This explains why the 2000 Honda Insight is now rated at 49 mpg city, 61 mpg highway, and 53 mpg combined.
While these numbers are lower, they’re still impressive, especially when compared to the 2025 Civic Hybrid’s ratings of 50 mpg city, 47 mpg highway, and 49 mpg combined. So, how did Honda achieve such efficiency 25 years ago?
By designing a lightweight, aerodynamically optimized two-seater with an aluminum body and partially covered rear wheels, helping the Insight achieve an outstanding drag coefficient of 0.25.
While those features are interesting, the car was more notable for its hybrid powertrain, which included a 67 hp (50 kW / 68 PS) 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine, a 13 hp (10 kW / 14 PS) electric motor, and a small nickel-metal hydride battery. It also came with a five-speed manual transmission, with later models offering a continuously variable transmission.
Although the Insight never gained widespread popularity, despite having three generations, it holds the distinction of being the “first mass-produced hybrid-electric vehicle ever sold in the United States.” However, it was overshadowed by the Toyota Prius, which remains a staple today.
That said, the Insight’s legacy endures, as 25% of Honda’s sales now come from hybrids. The CR-V was the best-selling hybrid in America last year, while the Accord led in hybrid sedan sales. Additionally, about 40% of Civic buyers opt for the hybrid version.
