Quote:
Originally Posted by Formula413
Congrats on the purchase! As another driver new to the hybrid game I know how much fun it is to see the awesome numbers these cars can pull. Like you, I was considering a Prius until I realized that even fairly high mileage examples still weren't going to be had cheaply. And ultimately I'm glad I went the route I did, because not only did I pay at least 3 grand less than I would have for a Prius with similar mileage, but I got to satisfy my stick shift fix (not even possible with current hybrids) and got a car with nice crisp handling too. I never test drove a Prius but if it's anything like other Toyotas it just doesn't have the involving driving experience that my Civic has. The more I drive it the more impressed I am with this car's handling. Even with 70 series tires it has very little lean or understeer and great road feel. As someone who appreicates good handling I'm curious what your driving impressions are of the Insight, did they keep the Honda genes or borrow some from Toyota?
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I'm glad you like your Civic! I also didn't want to completely trade-off a sporty edge for FE or price -- it's a good compromise.
There is definitely a learning curve with the Hybrid transition -- although without trying, I'm getting what would be my best tank from the Integra. The goal is already achieved with the purchase, but more potential is there...
I miss not having a stick shift, but the 7-speed CVT understands the IMA and i-DSi system better than I could ever figure. If I want some fun rev-time, the paddle shifters can drop the ratio or into an adaptive "Low" range
With the higher FE numbers, any lapse into "heavy footedness" drops the tank average quite a bit, so I'm hesitant (also, I still need to break the engine in before a redline runup). I had an uphill highway merge into fast traffic yesterday -- it all came together to get up to speed quickly, at about 5000 RPM and full assist.
We have had a lot of snow (which is now melting), so I haven't had the chance to test the suspension on dry pavement yet. So far it retains "Honda handling" (the little tires would likely break loose before body roll forces them to push). There's a nice corner that I can test over/under steer that is just waiting for some sun. The ride is pretty stiff, which may translate into some sporty handling. My true test of handling is the double lane-change / slalom. I left the factory-spec air in the tires for a true baseline (and for snow/ice traction).
So far, I'd say that it's "Responsive" -- more to follow on the review!
RH77