Honda Insight 2024: Electric Crossover Returns with 500km Range

Honda is reviving the Insight as an electric crossover with 500 kilometres of range in Japan. This rebranded version of the Chinese eNS2 model produced by Dongfeng delivers 201 horsepower and 310 Nm of torque with a single front motor.

"Honda is bringing back this name because the new car provides insight into current market needs and trends" — Honda Motor

An Unexpected Return for an Iconic Name

The Insight is back in Honda's lineup, but in a form that bears little resemblance to the original hybrid coupe from 1999. This time, Honda is betting on a compact electric crossover aimed at the Japanese market, with taut lines that stand in sharp contrast to the aerodynamic silhouette of its ancestor.

The Japanese automaker chose to resurrect this nameplate for a specific reason. Honda explains that this new model "provides insight into current market needs and trends," a way of justifying the recycling of a name onto a vehicle that's worlds apart from the original concept.

Chinese Roots, Openly Acknowledged

Behind this new model lies the eNS2, an electric SUV developed for the Chinese market through Honda's alliance with Dongfeng. Honda simply adapted the vehicle for Japan by converting to right-hand drive and refining some finish details.

This strategy is nothing new for Honda. The automaker already did the same with the e:Ny1, which also draws its foundations from a model originally designed for China. A pragmatic approach that allows rapid expansion of the electric lineup without multiplying development investments.

Average Performance Credentials

On the technical side, Honda is keeping its cards close on final specifications for the Japanese market. The automaker does confirm a front electric motor delivering 310 Nm of torque, matching the Chinese model's 201 horsepower. Performance is promised to be "dynamic and agile" according to Honda, without further specifics on acceleration figures.

The claimed range reaches 500 kilometres under the WLTP cycle—a respectable figure for a compact electric SUV. This places the Insight squarely in the middle of European competitors, without standing out particularly.

Minimalist Interior Taken to the Extreme

The cabin follows the Honda e:Ny1 philosophy by eliminating nearly all physical buttons. Only the defroster controls escape digitalization; everything else is grouped on a central 12.8-inch touchscreen in horizontal orientation.

Honda has prioritized comfort with an elevated driving position and reclining rear seats. The automaker even integrated a fragrance diffuser offering six different scents—a rather unusual feature for this category.

When Will It Reach Europe?

Honda hasn't yet confirmed a European launch for this new model. The automaker invested in right-hand drive conversion for Japan, which would technically facilitate a UK launch. But no timeline has leaked so far.

This caution reflects Honda's delicate situation on Europe's electric market. The automaker currently offers only two 100% electric models: the city car Honda e and the compact SUV e:Ny1—a still-insufficient catalog against regulatory obligations.

Still-Fuzzy Electrification Strategy

The Insight's return highlights Honda's fumbling on electrification. The Japanese automaker still heavily favors conventional hybrid technology, a proven solution it's mastered but one that won't cut it against future combustion engine bans.

Adapting Chinese models buys time, but raises questions about Honda's ability to develop its own electric identity. European and American rivals are pulling ahead with dedicated platforms and cutting-edge tech.

The electric Insight remains a cautious bet, far from the technological boldness that made the original model a success. An approach that perhaps reflects Honda's current mindset: move forward without excessive risk, even if it means arriving late to certain segments.