Honda Insight vs Toyota Prius

Decades ago, few cars were anywhere near as fuel efficient as the Toyota Prius. Today, the 2025 Prius remains the fuel economy champion, but numerous alternatives are close behind. Some even offer more interior room at a lower price. That reality, coupled with the Prius’ cramped interior, limited trunk space, and general weirdness, means hybrid car buyers have options. In response, Toyota adds a new Nightshade trim level with a blacked-out look to the 2025 Prius lineup.

Verdict: The point of the 2025 Toyota Prius is fuel economy, but our Prius Nightshade test car averaged 39.2 mpg, falling significantly short of the EPA estimate of 52 mpg in combined driving. That certainly isn’t superior to roomier hybrid cars from Honda, Hyundai, or from within Toyota’s own lineup.

Twenty years ago, the original Honda Insight was the first hybrid to go on sale in America. It had two seats and a funky teardrop shape, but amazing fuel economy.

Honda’s next Insight was a Prius copycat, but smaller, cheaper, and less satisfying than the Toyota.

Now, this third-generation 2019 Honda Insight adopts traditional 4-door sedan design and offers plenty of interior and trunk space. Plus, it is undeniably more attractive than the Civic on which it is based.

Should consumers looking for a practical, affordable, and efficient car consider the new Insight?