Honda Insight goes for $1,560 less with new base model

Honda slashed $1,560 from the base price of its Insight hybrid for the 2011 model year, creating a new entry-level trim that carries a sticker price of $18,950, including destination charges.

The move gives the Insight a pricing edge of about $4,610 over the Toyota Prius. The Insight LX was the base model for the 2010 model year, and its price started at $20,510.

To cut the base-model price, Honda removed some content from the Insight LX, such as the standard navigation system and Bluetooth capabilities. It also used less expensive seat fabric and downgraded the stereo system from four speakers to two speakers. Honda did not remove any safety features.

The new base Insight includes remote unlocking, automatic climate control, power windows and a tilt-and-telescoping steering column.

Honda added features to the other models in the Insight lineup. All 2011 Insights have stability control, which was previously exclusive to the Insight EX. The Insight LX gets cruise control, a USB audio interface, a center-armrest storage console and floor mats. The Insight EX adds steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, which previously required the addition of the navigation systems.

The Insight's hybrid powertrain is unchanged--a 1.3-liter gasoline engine and a 10-kilowatt electric motor. Fuel-economy ratings remain at 40 mpg in the city and 43 mpg on the highway.

By Michelle Koueiter