2013 Honda Insight: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2013 Honda Insight is a true carryover with no major changes from 2012. It keeps the same three-trim lineup, hybrid powertrain, styling, safety equipment, and technology.
About the 2013 Honda Insight
2nd generation (2010-2014), fourth model year, one year after the 2012 refresh.
Honda marketed the Insight as a five-seat hatchback hybrid for drivers who wanted strong fuel economy, familiar Honda controls, and everyday cargo flexibility. The brochure frames it as a car for people who pay attention to every mile, and the model’s big draw was simple efficiency in a practical liftback shape rather than speed or luxury. For most shoppers, the Insight was a commuter-focused hybrid with usable rear-seat space, a fold-down rear seat, and a straightforward Honda driving feel.
Honda positioned the base Insight as the straightforward fuel-saving model, while the LX added useful daily-driver features such as cruise control, a USB audio port, and steering-wheel controls. The EX brought Bluetooth phone calling, paddle shifters, heated mirrors, alloy wheels, and a six-speaker stereo, while navigation remained an optional add-on.
2013 Honda Insight specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, Hybrid PZEV 1.3L / 4-Cyl, Hybrid VTEC 1.3L | 4-Cyl, Hybrid PZEV 1.3L / 4-Cyl, Hybrid VTEC 1.3L | 4-Cyl, Hybrid PZEV 1.3L / 4-Cyl, Hybrid VTEC 1.3L |
| Transmission | Automatic, CVT | Automatic, CVT | Automatic, CVT |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid |
| MPG City | 41 mpg | 41 mpg | 41 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 44 mpg | 44 mpg | 44 mpg |
| Horsepower | 98 hp | 98 hp | 98 hp |
| Torque | 123 lb-ft | 123 lb-ft | 123 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 15.9 cu-ft | 15.9 cu-ft | 15.9 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 33 in | 33 in | 33 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | |||
| Automatic Headlights | |||
| Cruise Control | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Heated Mirrors | |||
| Bluetooth | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Satellite Radio | |||
| USB Ports | |||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2013 Honda Insight compared with the 2012 model?
Nothing significant changed for 2013. The Insight carried over the same base, LX, and EX trims, along with the same hybrid system, styling, safety equipment, and technology.
Was the 2013 Honda Insight redesigned?
No, the 2013 Insight was not redesigned. It remained part of the second generation and arrived one model year after the 2012 refresh.
What hybrid system does the 2013 Honda Insight use?
The 2013 Insight uses a 1.3-liter gasoline-electric hybrid system with a continuously variable automatic transmission. Its EPA ratings are 41 mpg city and 44 mpg highway.
How do the 2013 Honda Insight trims differ?
The base trim covers the essentials, the LX adds everyday conveniences, and the EX adds more comfort and driver-focused equipment. LX highlights include cruise control and USB audio, while EX highlights include Bluetooth phone calling, paddle shifters, heated mirrors, alloy wheels, and a six-speaker stereo.
Did the 2013 Honda Insight EX include navigation as standard equipment?
No, navigation was not standard on the 2013 Insight EX. It was an optional add-on.
Sources
- automobiles.honda.com — 2013 / Insight Hybrid / 2013 Insight Hybrid Factsheet
- automobiles.honda.com — 2013 / Insight Hybrid / 2013 Insight Hybrid Brochure
- automobiles.honda.com — 2014 / Insight Hybrid / 2014 Insight Brochure
- global.honda — Worldnews / 2009 / 4090111Insight Hybrid World Debut
- automobiles.honda.com — 2012 / Insight Hybrid / 2012 Insight Hybrid Brochure