Honda Insight hybrid gets a new look inside and out for 2012

The 2012 Honda Insight hybrid bowed on Monday with refreshed exterior styling, more standard features and improved fuel economy--with a base price of less than $20,000.

Honda says it was aiming for a more high-tech look this time around. On the outside, a reworked grille design is flanked by restyled front and rear bumpers. Reflectors inside the headlights and brake lights also are changed to accent the new look.

On the inside for all trim levels, the rear-seat area offers more legroom and headroom; a redesigned gauge cluster adds a more sophisticated look; reshaped center-console beverage holders accommodate larger drinks, and the LX and EX models have more supportive armrests.

The base-model Insight, starting at $19,120 with destination, has a two-speaker audio system, automatic climate control and remote entry.

At $20,895, the LX adds a four-speaker audio system, USB interface, armrest console, floor mats and a security system. New for 2012 are upgraded seat fabric, map lights and steering-wheel audio controls.

Starting at $22,585, the top-of-the-line EX tacks on steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters, a six-speaker audio system and heated side mirrors with integrated turn signals. New standard features in the EX include hands-free Bluetooth, automatic headlights and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob for 2012.

The Insight EX is available with navigation with voice recognition and a rearview camera for a price jump to $24,310. Navigation-system upgrades include a new rearview camera and a 16-GB Flash memory system replacing the 4.7-GB, DVD-based system on the previous model. The new system has faster route calculation and includes FM traffic, according to Honda.

Rear visibility improves across the lineup with structural adjustments, and Honda says the ride is quieter with increased thickness to the noise-insulation materials and added insulation panels in the cargo area. All Insight models have a 1.3-liter, VTEC four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor. A 10.6-gallon fuel tank provides an estimated driving range of 400 miles.

Honda says the car gets city/highway/combined EPA ratings of 41/44/42 mpg, up 1 mpg across the board.

By Michelle Koueiter