2010 Honda Insight: What's New, Specs & Features

Last updated August 4, 2026

The 2010 Honda Insight is an all-new second-generation model and a major departure from the earlier two-seater. It returns as a five-door, five-passenger hybrid hatchback built for everyday use.

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About the 2010 Honda Insight

2nd generation Insight hatchback (2010-2014 U.S.), first year.

Honda positioned the Insight as an affordable gateway to hybrid ownership: a roomy-enough five-passenger hatchback with strong fuel economy, useful cargo flexibility, and a more familiar driving feel than some early hybrids. The model’s core appeal was not luxury or speed. It was everyday efficiency, low running costs, and practical commuter use, with Honda also stressing that the car was designed and priced for a much broader audience than the original Insight.

The LX is the straightforward version, pairing the hybrid system and Eco Assist with automatic climate control and a split-folding rear seat. The EX adds everyday upgrades such as alloy wheels, paddle shifters, heated mirrors, cruise control, a USB audio connection, and a six-speaker stereo.

What changed, by category

Structural

The Insight returns with a completely new five-door hatchback body and seating for five, replacing the earlier two-seat layout.

Powertrain

Every 2010 Insight uses a 1.3-liter gasoline engine paired with Honda's Integrated Motor Assist hybrid system and a continuously variable automatic transmission.

Tech

Eco Assist debuts across the lineup, using an ECON button and dashboard feedback to help the driver save fuel.

2010 Honda Insight specs and features by trim

Feature	2010 Honda InsightEX0 in stock	2010 Honda InsightLX0 in stock
Engine	4-Cyl, Hybrid, VTEC, 1.3L	4-Cyl, Hybrid, VTEC, 1.3L
Transmission	Automatic, CVT	Automatic, CVT
Drivetrain	FWD	FWD
Fuel Type	Hybrid	Hybrid
MPG City	40 mpg	40 mpg
MPG Highway	43 mpg	43 mpg
Horsepower	98 hp	98 hp
Torque	123 lb-ft	123 lb-ft
Trunk/Cargo	15.9 cu-ft	15.9 cu-ft
Rear Legroom	33.5 in	33.5 in
Seats	5	5
Doors	4	4
Safety & Security
Alarm System
Cruise Control
Traction Control
Exterior Features
Alloy Wheels
Heated Mirrors
Entertainment & Electronics
Bluetooth
Navigation System
USB Ports

How the 2011 Honda Insight compares

The most important change for the 2011 Honda Insight is that stability and traction control are standard on every trim. This is otherwise a light update, with a new entry-level Base trim and no redesign or powertrain change.

See the full 2011 changes

Frequently asked questions

Is the 2010 Honda Insight an all-new model?

Yes. The 2010 Insight begins the model's second generation in the U.S., returning as a five-door, five-passenger hybrid hatchback instead of the earlier two-seat design.

What powertrain does the 2010 Honda Insight use?

Every 2010 Insight has a 1.3-liter gasoline engine paired with Honda's Integrated Motor Assist hybrid system and a continuously variable automatic transmission.

What is the difference between the 2010 Insight LX and EX?

The LX covers the essentials, including Eco Assist, automatic climate control, and a split-folding rear seat. The EX adds alloy wheels, paddle shifters, heated mirrors, cruise control, a USB audio connection, and a six-speaker stereo.

Does the 2010 Honda Insight have Eco Assist?

Yes. Eco Assist is standard across the 2010 Insight lineup and combines an ECON button with dashboard feedback designed to encourage more fuel-efficient driving.