Honda Brings Back the Insight as a Fully Electric Crossover
Honda has revived the Insight nameplate with a fresh twist, transitioning it into a fully electric crossover after several years since the last generation was discontinued. Unlike its hybrid predecessors, the new model abandons combustion powertrains entirely.
The redesigned Insight showcases a modern, stylish exterior with smooth lines and distinctive boomerang-shaped LED lights at both front and rear, reflecting design trends expected in the near future. Its look is less aggressive than that of Honda's 0 Series EVs but maintains a contemporary appeal.
Interestingly, the latest Insight shares many design and interior cues with an electric crossover sold in China — the Dongfeng Honda e:NS2. The dashboard layout and overall cabin design are nearly identical, hinting at shared engineering or manufacturing origins.
Honda has revealed limited technical details so far, but it confirms a driving range exceeding 311 miles (500 kilometers) measured by the WLTC cycle. The electric motor delivers 229 lb-ft (310 Nm) of torque and includes a Sport mode that enhances acceleration and adds dynamic sound effects inside the cabin.
The powertrain closely matches the e:NS2’s setup, which features a front-mounted electric motor generating 201 horsepower powered by a 68.8-kWh battery pack. The Chinese model claims up to 339 miles (545 kilometers) under the CLTC standard.
Inside, the Insight is well-equipped with features common to Chinese EVs, such as electrically adjustable front seats, a perfume dispenser, and a dual-screen setup consisting of a 12.8-inch infotainment touchscreen paired with a 9.4-inch digital instrument cluster. The cabin lacks dedicated physical climate controls, which is a trait often seen in vehicles developed for the Chinese market.
Additional highlights include a premium 12-speaker Bose audio system, ambient lighting, a head-up display, ventilated front seats, a modest-sized electric sunroof, heated steering wheel, reclining rear seats, and a front-facing camera that records footage useful in collision events.
The new Insight will be available for purchase in Japan starting this spring, with reservations opening on March 19.
Honda’s decision to resurrect the Insight as a fully electric crossover comes as a surprise to many. While the company has not disclosed the vehicle's manufacturing location, it's plausible that production and export from China to Japan could be part of the strategy. Honda’s sales in China have been declining, so exporting vehicles made in joint ventures there might help optimize operations and maintain factory utilization.
