California Center for Sustainable Energy

The teardrop-shaped Honda Insight, introduced as the first hybrid vehicle in the USA in 1999, was out of production by 2006 for lack of public interest despite getting nearly 70 MPG. Earlier this year, the Insight came back to America in the form of a five-door hatchback with some enticing new features.

Pacific Honda will be showcasing the 2010 Insight (40 MPG city/43 MPG highway) with its Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) hybrid system, 1.3-liter eight-valve inline-4, and a power train that produces a combined output of 98 hp and 123 pound-feet of torque. It’s sleek new style is very aerodynamic with one of the lowest coefficients of drag of any car on the market. A multi-information display provides feedback on your braking and acceleration to help you drive more efficiently.

With a price several thousands of dollars less than the Toyota Prius, the new Insight is expected to sell in relatively high quantities. Honda is targeting annual global sales of 200,000 units per year, with approximately 100,000 in North America.