Consumers believe that the 2004 Honda Insight has become easier to drive, and thus a better car. Maybe it is just because the vehicle has been around a few years and people are getting use to how it works. In any event, the only real new items this year are the CD audio system becomes standard equipment and the seatbelts (as in all Hondas in 2004) have a new reminder system.

We still have the 1.0-liter, three-cylinder engine with the electrical backup used to assist acceleration. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) is pretty much the same transmission as the prior 3 years. Fuel economy, low emissions, and space-age design remain the major reasons attracting new buyers, although consumer ratings are beginning to slip a tiny bit.

Priced at around $17,000, it is still a good investment. I would like it if the car had more power uphill and if the battery could not drain so quickly on longer road trips.