The base 2009 Honda Civic Hybrid starts at $24,320, including a $670 destination charge.
The five-passenger Insight hatchback takes direct aim at the Toyota Prius hybrid. The base or "standard" grade 2009 Toyota Prius starts at $22,720, including a $720 destination charge. The uplevel Touring grade Prius starts at $24,990, including destination.
Honda said its Insight will get a U.S. fuel economy rating of 40 miles per gallon in city driving and 43 mpg on the highway. However, the EPA has yet to post official fuel economy numbers on the Insight. All Insights are powered by a 1.3-liter SOHC i-VTEC engine and a continuously variable transmission, along with a new generation of Honda's IMA hybrid system. The Insight has an estimated driving range of 400-plus miles, said Honda.
Inside Line says: More evidence that the Honda Insight appears poised to undercut the Toyota Prius, as expected, in the U.S. market. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent
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