2010 Honda Insight Road Test Ratings

Honda has succeeded in providing an economical car that is practical without being completely boring.

Although the acceleration isn't blazing, the Insight is a tidy handler and not completely soulless to drive like many other hybrids.

Road noise is a constant companion. Front-seat comfort is excellent, though rear-seat space is cramped compared to the Insight's primary competition, the Prius. The Insight has a terrific driving position thanks in part to a telescoping wheel.

Controls are logically laid out without succumbing to style overkill. Conventional gauges are plus. The fuel economy globe indicator is an effective aid to driving economically. Cargo space is ample for a car of this size.

Hard plastics are what you get at this price point, but the Insight makes the most of it. Interior design exhibits the excellent functional typical of Hondas. Exterior styling is ho-hum. That's the shape of good aero, though.