by VIN, Year, Make, Model by License Plate

2005 Honda Insight Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

Rating: 3.87
Based on 12 Owner Reviews â–¶
Simon A | March 31, 2025
The 2005 Honda Insight is a pioneering hybrid vehicle, easily recognizable by its aerodynamic, wedge-shaped hatchback body style. It was among the first mass-produced hybrid cars available in the US. Model years spanned from 2000-2006 for the first generation. There were no specific trim levels, it was largely a single, well-equipped model. Original pricing hovered around $20,000. Its exceptional fuel economy, unique design, and status as an early adopter of hybrid technology made it stand out.
The Good

The 2005 Honda Insight's major advantage is its exceptional fuel efficiency, appealing to the practical buyer. Its unique and futuristic design provided an emotional appeal, showcasing early hybrid technology. Honda's reputation for reliability ensures low running costs. The low curb weight offers peppy acceleration.

The Bad

The 2005 Honda Insight's weaknesses include a small size, limited cargo space, and a sometimes-rough ride. The Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) battery is a significant concern, with potential for degradation and costly replacement. The air conditioning system can also be problematic. The car's lightweight construction can make it feel less substantial on the road.

2005 Honda Insight: Quick Overview

  • Engine: 1.0L SOHC 3-cylinder with Integrated Motor Assist (IMA)
  • Horsepower: 67 hp (engine) + 13 hp (electric motor) = 73 hp combined
  • Fuel Economy: Approximately 60 mpg city / 66 mpg highway (EPA estimates, may vary)
  • 0-60 mph: Around 12 seconds
  • Towing Capacity: Not recommended/applicable
  • Trim-Level Features (Essentially one trim):
    • Air conditioning
    • Power windows and door locks
    • AM/FM radio with CD player
    • Alloy wheels
    • CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) or 5-speed manual transmission options
    • Cloth upholstery
    • Digital instrument panel displaying fuel economy and hybrid system information
    • Rear window wiper
    • Dual front airbags
  • Battery: Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH)
  • Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
  • Curb Weight: Very light, around 1,880 pounds
  • Seating: 2 passengers

2005 Honda Insight Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2005
Make Honda
Model Insight
Trim -
Style 5-Speed Manual
Type Sedan
Category Sports Car
Manufacturing Details
Made In Japan
Manufacturing City SUZUKA
Dimensions
Doors 2-Door
Curb Weight 1975 pounds
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating 2375 pounds
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine ECA1
Engine Size 1L
Engine Cylinders 3
Transmission 5-Speed Manual
Transmission Type Manual
Transmission Speeds 5-Speed
Drivetrain Front-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System -
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) $20,530
Invoice Price $19,176
Delivery Charges $515

Vehicle History Report

Vehicle
Specifications
Ownership
History
All History
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
Check
Accident
Check
Theft
Check
Open Lien
Check
Past Sale
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Odometer
Check
Market Price
Analysis
View VINCheck Report

What Problems Does the 2005 Honda Insight Have?

The most frequently reported problem for the 2005 Honda Insight, and Insights in general, concerns the Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) battery. The NiMH battery can degrade over time, leading to reduced fuel economy, warning lights, and eventual failure, requiring costly replacement. Some owners have reported premature battery failure even within the first few years of ownership. Air conditioning issues are also common, with reports of compressor failure and refrigerant leaks.
Other concerns include:
  • Catalytic converter failure, especially in high-mileage vehicles.
  • Issues with the continuously variable transmission (CVT), although less frequent than battery issues.
  • Sensor failures related to the hybrid system.
  • Paint issues, particularly fading and clear coat peeling in sun-exposed areas.
Recalls have been issued for various reasons over the years, including potential fuel leakage and issues with the supplemental restraint system. It's crucial to check the vehicle's VIN for any outstanding recalls before purchasing. While Honda's generally have good reliability, the hybrid system in the Insight adds complexity and potential failure points, especially in older models like the 2005.

How long will the 2005 Honda Insight last?

With proper maintenance, a 2005 Honda Insight can last well over 200,000 miles. However, long-term durability hinges heavily on the condition of the IMA battery. Many Insights from this era are facing battery replacements, which can significantly impact ownership costs. Regular oil changes, timely maintenance of the CVT (if equipped), and addressing any warning lights promptly are essential for maximizing longevity. Rust can also be a concern in certain climates. The lightweight construction and reliance on the hybrid system make it more susceptible to component wear and tear compared to conventional gasoline vehicles.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2005 Honda Insight offered relatively basic tech and features compared to modern vehicles.
Tech and Entertainment:
  • Standard AM/FM radio with a CD player.
  • A digital instrument panel displaying fuel economy and hybrid system information. This was a notable feature at the time, showcasing the hybrid technology.
Driver-Assistance Features:
  • Limited driver-assistance features. It primarily relied on traditional driving skills.
Safety Features:
  • Dual front airbags were standard.
  • Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were not standard on all models but were available.
  • Relatively basic safety features compared to contemporary cars.
Optional Features:
  • Air conditioning.
  • Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) or 5-speed manual transmission.
Crash Test Ratings:
  • The 2005 Honda Insight received mixed crash test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration). It's essential to research specific ratings for frontal and side impacts for that model year. Due to its small size and lightweight construction, it may not perform as well as larger, more modern vehicles in crash tests.
Overall, the 2005 Honda Insight prioritized fuel efficiency over advanced tech or extensive safety features. It was a pioneer in hybrid technology, but its feature set reflects the automotive technology available at the time.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Cactus Gray Metallic
Citrus Yellow Metallic
New Formula Red
Moonlight Blue Metallic
Taffeta White
Interior Colors
Ivory
Black

2005 Honda Insight Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2005 Honda Insight had an MSRP of around $20,000. Used market prices today typically range from $2,000 to $7,000, depending on condition, mileage, and battery health. Depreciation has been significant due to age and the availability of newer, more advanced hybrid and electric vehicles. Factors affecting resale value include the condition of the IMA battery (a major factor), overall mechanical condition, mileage, and location. Rust-free examples with a well-maintained battery command higher prices. Low original sales volumes mean they are relatively rare on the used market.

2005 Honda Insight Cost of Ownership

The 2005 Honda Insight is generally economical in terms of fuel consumption. Insurance costs are typically low due to its age and value. However, maintenance and repair costs can be unpredictable, especially regarding the IMA battery. Battery replacement is a significant expense. Regular maintenance like oil changes is relatively inexpensive. Long-term ownership costs depend heavily on battery health and the need for repairs. While fuel-efficient, unexpected repairs can make it more costly than some newer, more reliable alternatives.

2005 Honda Insight Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity 10.6 gallons
City Mileage 48 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage 58 miles/gallon

2005 Honda Insight Safety Rating

NHTSA
Side Driver Rating
Frontal Passenger Rating
Rollover Rating
Side Rear Passenger Rating
Frontal Driver Rating
IIHS
Rear Crash Protection/Head Restraint Ratings Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test Results Not Tested
Side Impact Test Results Not Tested

2005 Honda Insight Insurance

Insurance for a 2005 Honda Insight is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2005 Honda Insight Compare to Other Sedan?

The 2005 Honda Insight's primary rival was the Toyota Prius. The Prius offered better practicality with its larger size and rear seats, along with comparable fuel economy and a slightly more refined driving experience. While both cars were early hybrids, the Prius gained wider acceptance. The Insight offered slightly better MPG numbers but sacrificed space.
Performance: Insight's performance is adequate for city driving but struggles on highways. Prius has slightly better acceleration. Features: Prius offered more features and a more conventional interior. Reliability: Both have hybrid system concerns, but Prius parts are generally more readily available. Price: Used Insight prices are often lower due to perceived battery risk and limited practicality.
Alternatives: Consider a newer, used Toyota Prius for greater reliability, more features, and improved safety. Other alternatives within the same price range might include non-hybrid compact cars like the Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla for simpler maintenance and potentially lower long-term costs, sacrificing fuel economy in the process. A newer hybrid model, even if slightly more expensive, can offer a significantly improved driving experience and enhanced reliability.

Ranks #66 Hatchback

1 2023 Toyota Corolla Hatchback (0.0★)
2 2023 Honda Civic Type R (5.0★)
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★)
66 2005 Honda Insight (4.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2005 Honda Insight a Good Sedan?

The 2005 Honda Insight is ideal for a budget-conscious individual seeking maximum fuel economy and a unique, attention-grabbing vehicle. However, it's worth buying only under specific conditions. A thorough inspection is crucial, especially regarding the IMA battery's health. A pre-purchase inspection by a mechanic experienced with hybrid systems is highly recommended. A well-maintained example with a relatively new or recently reconditioned battery might be a worthwhile purchase, but be prepared for potential future battery replacement costs. It's best suited as a city commuter car due to its limited cargo space and highway performance. If practicality and reliability are top priorities, a newer, used Prius or a conventional compact car might be a better choice.

2005 Honda Insight Owner Reviews

3.87
Consumer Rating, Based on 12 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
Cancel
Thank You for Your Review!

We truly appreciate the time and effort you took to share your experience with us.

Uh oh!

Something went wrong, please try again later.

atikovi on September 13, 2017

Highest mpg of any car sold in the U.S.

Honda lost money on every one of the early Insight models it sold but that was the price to pay for cutting your teeth on the new technology that wouldn?t pay off for years to come. Some have speculated that it cost Honda upwards of $50,000 to build each Insight, while Honda insiders put that figure at under $30K. Regardless, the price new of this Honda Insight was over $20,000! Good fully sorted used ones now sell for a quarter that. When gas prices go up, so will the price of these cars. They can easily go 400,000 miles with out major repairs and with an aluminum body, it's not subject to rust issues that most older cars have.

Was this review helpful?
1
0

Silver Man on June 12, 2009

62 hy.mpg miles @ 65mph, 50 city,

Great car,not a lot of car,but good for what it is made for. High road noise,is only minus for the insight.

Was this review helpful?
1
0

Drivin' Dick on March 26, 2007

Very Happy New Owner

I just bought my used 2005 Insight a couple of days ago, from an out-of-state dealership. I spent the next two days driving it 1030 miles to get it home. What a pleasure! Pluses: Way better acceleration than the 73 HP would lead you to believe - my other car has 175 HP, so I expected a bit less out of the Insight, but I was really happy. I tend to have a heavy foot on the gas when driving on the freeway, and the Insight and I got along VERY well. Even with that, I got 45 mpg. I expect my daily commutes will give me 50+ mpg with no problem. I don't have any real expectations of getting 60+ mpg, but I will change this review or create a new one if I see high 50's or low 60's on a consistent basis. Nimble steering and braking - I appreciated it! I am over 6 ft tall and 210

Was this review helpful?
1
0

atikovi on September 13, 2017

Highest mpg of any car sold in the U.S.

Honda lost money on every one of the early Insight models it sold but that was the price to pay for cutting your teeth on the new technology that wouldn?t pay off for years to come. Some have speculated that it cost Honda upwards of $50,000 to build each Insight, while Honda insiders put that figure at under $30K. Regardless, the price new of this Honda Insight was over $20,000! Good fully sorted used ones now sell for a quarter that. When gas prices go up, so will the price of these cars. They can easily go 400,000 miles with out major repairs and with an aluminum body, it's not subject to rust issues that most older cars have.

Was this review helpful?
1
0

Silver Man on June 12, 2009

62 hy.mpg miles @ 65mph, 50 city,

Great car,not a lot of car,but good for what it is made for. High road noise,is only minus for the insight.

Was this review helpful?
1
0

Drivin' Dick on March 26, 2007

Very Happy New Owner

I just bought my used 2005 Insight a couple of days ago, from an out-of-state dealership. I spent the next two days driving it 1030 miles to get it home. What a pleasure! Pluses: Way better acceleration than the 73 HP would lead you to believe - my other car has 175 HP, so I expected a bit less out of the Insight, but I was really happy. I tend to have a heavy foot on the gas when driving on the freeway, and the Insight and I got along VERY well. Even with that, I got 45 mpg. I expect my daily commutes will give me 50+ mpg with no problem. I don't have any real expectations of getting 60+ mpg, but I will change this review or create a new one if I see high 50's or low 60's on a consistent basis. Nimble steering and braking - I appreciated it! I am over 6 ft tall and 210

Was this review helpful?
1
0

atikovi on September 13, 2017

Highest mpg of any car sold in the U.S.

Honda lost money on every one of the early Insight models it sold but that was the price to pay for cutting your teeth on the new technology that wouldn?t pay off for years to come. Some have speculated that it cost Honda upwards of $50,000 to build each Insight, while Honda insiders put that figure at under $30K. Regardless, the price new of this Honda Insight was over $20,000! Good fully sorted used ones now sell for a quarter that. When gas prices go up, so will the price of these cars. They can easily go 400,000 miles with out major repairs and with an aluminum body, it's not subject to rust issues that most older cars have.

Was this review helpful?
1
0

Silver Man on June 12, 2009

62 hy.mpg miles @ 65mph, 50 city,

Great car,not a lot of car,but good for what it is made for. High road noise,is only minus for the insight.

Was this review helpful?
1
0

Drivin' Dick on March 26, 2007

Very Happy New Owner

I just bought my used 2005 Insight a couple of days ago, from an out-of-state dealership. I spent the next two days driving it 1030 miles to get it home. What a pleasure! Pluses: Way better acceleration than the 73 HP would lead you to believe - my other car has 175 HP, so I expected a bit less out of the Insight, but I was really happy. I tend to have a heavy foot on the gas when driving on the freeway, and the Insight and I got along VERY well. Even with that, I got 45 mpg. I expect my daily commutes will give me 50+ mpg with no problem. I don't have any real expectations of getting 60+ mpg, but I will change this review or create a new one if I see high 50's or low 60's on a consistent basis. Nimble steering and braking - I appreciated it! I am over 6 ft tall and 210

Was this review helpful?
1
0

atikovi on September 13, 2017

Highest mpg of any car sold in the U.S.

Honda lost money on every one of the early Insight models it sold but that was the price to pay for cutting your teeth on the new technology that wouldn?t pay off for years to come. Some have speculated that it cost Honda upwards of $50,000 to build each Insight, while Honda insiders put that figure at under $30K. Regardless, the price new of this Honda Insight was over $20,000! Good fully sorted used ones now sell for a quarter that. When gas prices go up, so will the price of these cars. They can easily go 400,000 miles with out major repairs and with an aluminum body, it's not subject to rust issues that most older cars have.

Was this review helpful?
1
0
Author Image
Simon A

Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.