Pricing: 2010 Honda Insight

Watch out, Prius. The all-new 2010 Honda Insight goes on sale March 24, starting at $19,800 – not including the $670 destination charges. Priced near $20,000, the Insight is the lowest-priced hybrid available in America.

Smaller and less expensive than the redesigned Toyota Prius, also coming out this spring, the Insight touts an EPA-estimated 40 mpg city, 43 mpg highway mpg rating. (See how hybrid fuel economy compares.)

The Insight is powered by a 1.3-liter gasoline engine teamed with a 10-kilowatt electric motor. The relatively mild hybrid system, called Integrated Motor Assist, allows the driver to control the amount of electric boost and, thus, battery charge. To aid hypermilers, the Insight provides real-time feedback on the dashboard to help the driver maximize fuel economy. Honda claims this so-called Eco-Assist feature provides a more fun and rewarding hybrid experience, because it allows the driver to take a more active role in saving fuel.

The base Insight LX includes a continuously variable transmission (CVT), automatic climate control, tilt-and-telescope steering column, power windows, and a four-speaker AM/FM/CD stereo with auxiliary audio input. On the safety front, the LX is equipped with front, front- side-, and side-curtain air bags, plus antilock brakes.

Priced at $21,970 (with destination) the Insight EX adds stability control, alloy wheels, cruise control, steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, an upgraded audio system, and heated side mirrors with integrated turn signals.

A 6.5-inch, in-dash navigation system and Bluetooth connectivity is available with the EX Navi at $23,770. (Of course, a good portable GPS navigator can be found for under $250.)

With the Insight, consumers now have more choices for fuel-efficient transportation, and Honda shoppers have a tough decision as this new hatchback crowds showrooms alongside the Recommended Civic and Fit.

We will purchase an Insight for testing soon as they are available in our area.

—Jeff Bartlett