The 2020 Honda Insight gets 52 MPG combined, a primary reason for its existence. This is attractive for those wanting hybrid efficiency without unusual styling often seen on dedicated hybrid models. The Insight promises economical fuel consumption in a package that fits easily into everyday life. It’s a car for practical buyers who prioritize low running costs and reliable transportation.

City and highway performance

EPA estimates show 55 MPG in the city and 49 MPG on the highway, highlighting the Insight’s strengths. The higher city MPG shows the benefits of the hybrid system’s regenerative braking and electric motor assistance in stop-and-go traffic. The powertrain’s design maximizes efficiency at lower speeds, blending electric and gasoline power as needed. While the highway number dips slightly, it’s still very competitive, showing the increased reliance on the gasoline engine at higher speeds. The Insight’s powertrain programming is well-tuned, balancing smooth acceleration and fuel conservation regardless of driving conditions.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Honda Insight at $850. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. If you drive more or less than 15,000 miles per year, your actual fuel costs will change. Also, changes in gasoline prices affect your annual spending. The $850 figure provides a clear picture of how the Insight compares to other vehicles regarding fuel expenses; consider this metric when reviewing all Honda fuel economy data.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates offer a standard, but real-world MPG can vary. Driving style, weather, and terrain affect fuel consumption. Fast acceleration, frequent hard braking, and high speeds will decrease fuel efficiency, while gentle driving, anticipating traffic, and minimizing idling will improve it. Owners often find that matching or exceeding the EPA combined number is possible with careful driving. Headwinds and steep hills can also hurt fuel economy on longer trips.

How it compares

The 2020 Insight’s 52 MPG combined rating places it near the top of its class. The Toyota Prius, its closest competitor, gets a slightly higher 56 MPG combined in its base LE trim. The Prius Prime plug-in hybrid offers even better numbers with its electric driving range. The Hyundai Ioniq Blue gets 59 MPG combined, a strong choice for drivers focused on fuel economy. The Honda Insight is very competitive in this area, with a premium interior and styling that’s more traditional than many competitors. Many compact sedans with conventional gasoline engines struggle to reach the Insight’s efficiency; the Honda Civic, for example, gets closer to 35MGP combined in most forms. INSIGHT MPG across all years can vary slightly.

Tips to Maximize Efficiency

Minimize fast acceleration and braking. Gradual acceleration allows the hybrid system to operate in electric mode longer to use less gas. Anticipating traffic and coasting reduces hard braking, maximizing regenerative braking, and recharging the battery.

Keep tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and reducing fuel efficiency. Check tire pressure regularly and inflate tires to the recommended pressure on the driver’s side doorjamb.

Reduce weight. Extra weight in the vehicle uses fuel. Remove unnecessary items from the trunk and passenger area.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining consistent speed on the highway can help improve fuel efficiency. Cruise control minimizes speed changes, improving the engine’s performance.

Minimize idling. Avoid long idling as it wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. The Insight’s auto stop-start feature helps in city driving, but manually shutting off the engine will further conserve fuel.