Honda Insight hybrid sticker price to start at $20,470

Honda has delivered on its promise of bringing the 2010 Insight to market priced less than the rival Toyota Prius. The new Honda hybrid will start at just $20,470 in base LX form, including shipping charges, which undercuts the Prius by $2,250.

Insight LX models come standard with front-side and side-curtain airbags, ABS, automatic climate control and power windows. Premium EX versions add stability control, alloy wheels, cruise control, steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters and an upgraded audio system with USB input jack for $21,970. A range-topping EX with navigation comes in at $23,770.

The new Insight is powered by a 1.3-liter, four-cylinder engine joined together with an electric motor powered by a nickel-metal-hydride battery system. Power is routed to the front wheels via a continuously variable transmission.

Fuel economy is rated at 40 mpg in the city and 43 mpg on the highway, allowing the Insight to have a driving range of more than 400 miles per tank, according to Honda.

The 2010 Honda Insight officially goes on sale March 24.

By Jonathan Wong