The Good
The 2013 Insight offers excellent fuel efficiency, appealing to practical buyers seeking to save money at the pump. Honda's reputation for reliability provides peace of mind. Its hatchback design allows for versatile cargo space. While not a performance car, its hybrid system provides adequate power for daily driving. The design is distinctive and modern for a hybrid, which can be appealing to some buyers.
The Bad
The 2013 Honda Insight's weaknesses include a less-than-stellar ride quality and somewhat uninspired interior materials. Acceleration can feel sluggish, especially compared to non-hybrid competitors. Some owners have reported issues with the hybrid battery pack over time, which can be costly to replace. Road noise can also be noticeable at higher speeds.
2013 Honda Insight: Quick Overview
Key Specs for the 2013 Honda Insight:
- Engine Options: 1.3-liter i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine with Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) hybrid system.
- Horsepower: Total system horsepower is 98 hp (engine + electric motor).
- Fuel Economy: EPA estimated fuel economy is 41 mpg city / 44 mpg highway / 42 mpg combined.
- 0-60 Times: Approximately 12 seconds.
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended or rated for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base Model: Includes automatic climate control, power windows and locks, a two-speaker audio system with CD player, and a multi-information display.
- EX Model: Adds alloy wheels, cruise control, a six-speaker audio system, a USB audio interface, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, a center armrest, and available navigation system. The EX model also gets an upgraded interior trim.
- Battery: Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery pack.
- Transmission: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive.
- Safety Features (Standard): Anti-lock brakes (ABS), Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, and multiple airbags.
2013 Honda Insight Specifications
Vehicle Information
Year | 2013 |
Make | Honda |
Model | Insight |
Trim | - |
Style | - |
Type | Hatchback |
Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
Made In | Japan |
Manufacturing City | - |
Dimensions
Doors | 4-Door |
Curb Weight | 2747 pounds |
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
Overall Height | 56.2 inches |
Overall Length | 172.3 inches |
Overall Width | 66.7 inches |
Wheelbase Length | 100.4 inches |
Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
Engine | Gas/Electric I4 1.3L/82 |
Engine Size | 1.3L |
Engine Cylinders | 4 |
Transmission | 1 Continuously Variable Transmission |
Transmission Type | CVT |
Transmission Speeds | 1-Speed |
Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
Steering Type | Electric Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $18,600 |
Invoice Price | - |
Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2013 Honda Insight Have?
Recalls for the 2013 Honda Insight have been issued for issues such as potential fuel leakage from the fuel tank and issues with the airbags (related to the Takata airbag recall). It's crucial to check the vehicle's VIN with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to ensure all recalls have been addressed.
Long-term reliability concerns often center around the hybrid system components and the CVT transmission. Regular maintenance, including fluid changes, is crucial to maximize the lifespan of these components. While Honda has a generally strong reputation for reliability, the hybrid-specific components require careful attention. Some owners report experiencing a rough ride quality as the suspension ages.
How long will the 2013 Honda Insight last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Entertainment: The base model includes a two-speaker audio system with a CD player and an auxiliary audio input. The EX trim upgrades to a six-speaker system with a USB audio interface. Steering wheel-mounted audio controls are standard on the EX.
Driver-Assistance: Cruise control is available on the EX trim.
Safety Features: Standard safety features include anti-lock brakes (ABS), Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, and multiple airbags (front, side, and side curtain).
Optional Features: A navigation system was an available option on the EX trim.
Crash-Test Ratings: The 2013 Honda Insight received good crash test ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). It earned a "Top Safety Pick" designation. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave it an overall score of four out of five stars. Specific ratings varied by test category (frontal, side, and rollover). The multi-information display provides fuel consumption data and other vehicle information. The absence of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like blind-spot monitoring or lane departure warning is notable considering contemporary vehicles, as these features were not commonly available on vehicles in this class at the time.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2013 Honda Insight Prices and Market Value
2013 Honda Insight Cost of Ownership
2013 Honda Insight Fuel Efficiency
2013 Honda Insight Safety Rating
NHTSA
2013 Honda Insight Recalls & Defects
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2013 Honda Insight Warranty
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2013 Honda Insight Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2013 Honda Insight Compare to Other Hatchback?
The Toyota Prius C is a strong alternative, offering slightly better fuel economy and a more refined hybrid system. The Ford C-Max Hybrid provides a more engaging driving experience but can be less reliable than the Honda or Toyota. If performance and features are a priority, the C-Max might be a better choice. For ultimate reliability and fuel efficiency, the Prius C is a solid alternative. If budget is the primary concern and basic transportation is the goal, the Insight remains a viable option, provided its maintenance history is well-documented and the hybrid system is in good condition. However, given its age, carefully consider newer hybrid models for improved technology and reliability.
Ranks #55 Hatchback
1 | 2023 Toyota Corolla Hatchback | (0.0★) |
2 | 2023 Honda Civic Type R | (1.0★) |
3 | 2023 BMW i4 | (0.0★) |
4 | 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class | (0.0★) |
5 | 2016 Ford Focus Electric | (0.0★) |
6 | 2023 Audi A7 | (0.0★) |
7 | 2023 Nissan LEAF | (0.0★) |
8 | 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV | (5.0★) |
9 | 2022 Hyundai Ioniq Plug-In Hybrid | (0.0★) |
10 | 2023 Jaguar I-PACE | (0.0★) |
11 | 2023 Tesla Model S | (5.0★) |
12 | 2022 Porsche Panamera | (0.0★) |
55 | 2013 Honda Insight | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2013 Honda Insight a Good Hatchback?
Khay on December 23, 2019
Engine,Transmission and drive is excellentIts a roomy vehicle and runs so smooth. Everything outside the car is visible while inside creating less chances of hitting objects around you. And the engine size being a 1.3 litre is a plus to save an extra buck on gas.
Maine Skier/Cycler on May 26, 2019
Most underrated car that I've ever owned.Great driving car that saves fuel consistently. EPA didn't do it justice. I get consistent 51-56 mpg in Summer and 48-51 mpg during coldest weather when I commute. I measure it miles driven to fuel added at gas station. Lots of room for passengers and cargo. Rear seats down it becomes a very usable wagon. What I like best is that it drives and rides like a Honda. Never had a problem with this car. Reliability has been beyond expectation for this hybrid. And it's really easy on tires too. I'd give it 6 Stars if I could.
dimitriguy on August 25, 2018
Most reliable car I have ownedThis car is the most reliable car I have owned, although it is my first Honda. I purchased a 2010 Honda Insight in December 2013 with 42,000. As of August of 2018, I have a 176,000 miles, with minor service issues. Extremely reliable. Steel rims are durable, as oppose to aluminum rims. The MPG Is great. I can get 48 MPG on the highway and around a 42 MPG in the city. Trunk is huge. I can fit a double stroller width wise plus groceries with no problems. I have used this car for ridesharing and have been able to fit two large suitcases and a small suitcase. The car inside is a compact car but the trunk space is much larger. Performance is lack luster with only 90 horse power but is adequate, and is made up by the great gas mileage that I mentioned before. The interior design, is ok. Sort of blah. Perhaps what I don't like the most about the car is the light grey interior. With two small children, any slight stain or dirt shows up very easy, and is extremely difficult to remove, even with a Little Green Clean Machine and pretreatment. The LX Trims, which mine is, do not have blue tooth and you have to use a AUX Cord to connect any type of phone. EX Trims do have Blue Tooth. Overall if you are looking for a extremely reliable car, with a big trunk, that is fuel efficient at three to four thousand dollars less than a full size Prius, this is an excellent choice.
Lais on August 1, 2018
Great car! Even better gas mileageThis car is great, when my 2012 model was totaled I knew I wanted another just like it. I get almost 400 miles to the tank and it?s only maybe a 9 gal tank. It?s comfortable and when I was rear ended and sandwiched in my last accident I felt really safe in the car.
rina on July 16, 2017
GREAT for the priceIt is a great car for the price. Drives well and saves gas since it is a hybrid. It is good for commuting and driving around.
kaz on June 19, 2017
Love it!The current one is my second Insight. It's fun to drive although I wish a bit more power. A quiet ride from Hybrid system is good. Thanks to the special eco driving indicator, I think my driving style became more gentle and more fuel-efficient. So my wife and I love this little Honda.
KineticWing on June 8, 2017
For the thrifty, this can't be beatIf you want cheap, economical transportation, nothing beats a 2nd gen Honda Insight right now. Mostly due to the popularity of the Prius and EPA MPG ratings below the Toyota, the Insight is not very popular; bad for people who bought new but a great opportunity for someone to buy used. I paid under $10k out the door for a '13 with 48k on the clock. It's Honda reliable, and with careful driving, you can easily achieve 48-50 MPG. If your goal is to save money, thi sis hte car for you. Do yourself a favor and get an EX model though... the price difference is small, and you get a massively better stereo, alloys, and paddle shifters (I know it's not sporty, but the paddles are phenomenal in slippery conditions)
lnq on April 24, 2017
So far so good :)!I've really enjoyed having a hybrid and hatchback car! It's perfect for dog owners, the insight has provided enough room for three medium sized pups to all fit comfortably in the hatch! The gas milage per gallon on my Insight has been superb compared to my old car... so far my gas has been less than $25 and can go more than 325+ miles until I need to fuel up. It's a very fun and quiet car to drive, excited to see how it holds up!
Clyde1957 on February 14, 2017
burns oil, do not buyafter 80,000 miles it will start burning oil, a quart every 500 miles. They only put two piston rings, bad car, bad choice, you have been warned
AJB on February 8, 2017
Great alternative to a PriusI owned my 2013 Insight for three years. Comfortable and roomy interior, sporty looking exterior. The hatchback and fold down back seats allow for more storage capacity than you'd expect. I averaged 46 mpg. It's too bad this model didn't take off as well as the Prius, you get the same quality, features, and economy but at a lower price tag. Highway road noise was louder than I like but the highways in Arizona aren't the smoothest. City driving maneuverability was sometimes lacking as far as being able to accelerate quickly when needed. In the three years I owned it the main battery was replaced and there was a faulty accelerator part, both covered under the manufacturer's warranty without hassle.