Honda Insight EX vs LX

1. Exterior Design

The form takes on a similar 5-door theme to the Prius, a clever ruse to make it look like a conventional hatchback. Up front, the LED headlights are offered on the LX and EX. Bi-LED arrangements are on the base model, but the top dog has it in a projector formation. This gives the EX a small nod in style, plus the more useful, brighter, and efficient headlamps. Both the EX and LX have a radiator grille with a chrome accent, though they are different in design. The LX gives a traditional look with parallel lines running through the length of it, whilst the Insight has something simulating a mesh. Moving to the wheels, the Insight LX has an 8-spoke two-tone alloy with the dark inset located to the edge. It's a 16" wheel. Meanwhile, the EX comes with a 16" machine finish alloy with black insets in a 10-blade pattern. This is a decent departure from the norm, as base models in any variant generally come with the boring hubcapped steel wheels. Getting the right fit of the wheels would also be an easy way to fix a slow puncture without crossing the costly line of buying a full new tire, as no Insight model comes with a space saver. (Kernbach, 2021)

1.1. Headlights

The headlights of the LX and EX Honda Insights are fundamentally different: the LX headlight is just a single bulb, reflector, and projector lens type, while the EX has a dual bulb, multi-reflector halogen headlight. The result is a headlight beam pattern that is much wider and brighter than the LX. In fact, both high beam and low beam of the EX headlights are brighter than the "high" setting on the LX. Another significant advantage of the EX headlight over the LX is the automatic off timer. This gives the driver the ability to leave the headlight switch in the "on" position and not worry about draining the battery if they forget to turn them off. After 15 seconds with the ignition off, the headlights will turn off automatically. This function is particularly useful when parking at night. Overall, the LX headlight cannot compete with the brightness and convenience of the EX headlight.

1.2. Grille

The Insight EX and the LX have different grilles, and if we're honest, the LX's grille would be a better fit on the Insight Hybrid. But it doesn't help make the EX look any more attractive. The whole point of the Insight is using as little fuel as possible. If that means owning a hybrid car and retaining some sort of style then this could be what owners are looking for. The EX has a very bold front grille and an even more striking kind of blue tinted chrome on the grille, tapering off into the Honda 'H' symbol in the center. It stands out as being futuristic and somewhat stylish. On top of that, its more subtle aerodynamic design may help to be more fuel efficient. The LX has a more conventional style in terms of shape but the grille itself doesn't look out of place. With a slight hint of chrome, it is also impressive, if not only slightly. Colors for both of these models play a part in aesthetics, with lighter colors suiting the more conventional design seen on the LX and darker colors suiting the more futuristic look of the EX.

1.3. Wheels

The overall ride and handling of the Insight is designed with aerodynamics in mind. Today, the cost of fuel is higher than it has ever been, and with the current state of the economy, fuel efficiency is a must. To achieve great fuel economy, Honda has given both models a low rolling resistance. On both the Honda Insight EX and LX, lightweight wheels improve the performance of the Insight by minimizing the amount of energy needed to make them happen. Less energy wasted means more fuel savings. At the same time, the improved performance of any vehicle will also help ensure safety. Although both the Insight EX and LX have exemplary wheel design, there are improvements that can still be made to each. Aftermarket alloy wheels are plentiful, and with the increased popularity of the Honda Insight, more wheels are being produced to specifically cater to the Insight. With a little time, patience, and money, upgrading wheels will be an easy way to improve the overall performance and appearance of the Honda Insight. (Shigeta & Hosseini, 2020)

The Honda Insight LX and the EX model have their similarities, but when you look at the wheels from the outside, it is easy to tell the difference between the two. The Honda Insight EX comes with 15-inch alloy wheels, while the LX has 15-inch steel wheels. On top of that, diamonds are a woman's best friend. The only difference is that the Insight EX wheels are designed in a diamond shape, giving it a high-end jewelry look. Instead, the wheels of the Insight LX have a simple 14-inch steel wheel, with no decorative hubcap. Steel wheels are not as stylish as alloy wheels, and they are more likely to bend if you hit a pothole. So let's not pretend these are plastic cups, but the strength of Honda steel wheels is much greater than the average competitor. Plastic hubcaps are cheap and cost a lot to replace over time. It's very convenient that the LX doesn't require hubcaps for aesthetic improvement, allowing less to replace on potential maintenance. Shoulder the times with a cut on aesthetics; both models offer a reliable, fashionable use of wheels.

2. Interior Features

2.1. Infotainment System The Insight EX's steering wheel contains touchscreen controls that are absent on the LX and a Multi-Information Display that's larger and more capable. This necessitates a slightly revised control layout on the EX's dash versus the LX, but overall it's an improvement. The LX model's single-line display looks primitive and it lacks audio system features such as the customizable vehicle audio settings found in other Honda models. All Insights feature a USB audio interface that enables the connection of an iPod or flash memory device, allowing it to be operated through the audio controls. Bluetooth HandsFreeLink is only available on the EX, while both navigation and Honda's exceptional LaneWatch system are exclusive to the Touring. It's also worth noting that the Touring has two 2.5-amp USB charging ports for rear passengers.

With the battery taking up valuable real estate beneath the rear seat, the Insight's available interior features reflect the car's position as an affordable compact. The good news is that the push-button shifter in the LX model frees up a bit more space between the front seats for storage, allowing for a big covered console and another bin underneath. Honda has also eliminated the center stack that houses the Insight's shifter on the Civic, replacing it with a more conventional layout that includes a conventional shift lever. The change also allows for a traditional handbrake in place of the Civic's space-saving foot-operated brake.

2.1. Infotainment System

The 2021 Honda Insight EX builds upon the LX system with a more comprehensive infotainment system that is centered around its 8-inch display audio touchscreen with a more advanced four-speaker audio system and additional tweeters. To accompany this system, USB smartphone/audio integration is now possible through an increased four 2.5V USB ports. HondaLink and SMS text message function are additional features of the EX infotainment system. Both systems effectively provide a user-friendly method of accessing the vehicle's audio and entertainment capabilities with the combination of physical control and touchscreen interface. Beyond a shadow of a doubt, the infotainment system of both the 2021 Honda Insight LX and EX are standout features at their respective price points in relation to competitor models.

The 2021 Honda Insight LX comes readily armed with an infotainment system that effectively connects occupants with the car's audio and other entertainment capabilities. The centerpiece of the system is a high-quality 5-inch color LCD screen which makes rearview camera guidelines easier to read. This screen can be controlled with an intelligent multi-information display and steering wheel-mounted controls. A large center console provides additional connectivity with its two 2.5V USB ports and 12-volt outlet. Another key feature of the LX infotainment system is its four-speaker audio system that is compatible with Bluetooth streaming audio and has one USB audio interface.

2.2. Climate Control

Climate control. A good climate control system can make almost any car more appealing, especially in extreme climates. The Insight LX has a manual climate control system with a dust and pollen filter. The Insight EX has automatic climate control and a richer feature set. The Insight EX system is an advanced unit with a sunlight and temperature sensor which automatically adjusts the temperature (the driver can override it). The EX system also has an automatic climate override feature. If the climate control system is in automatic mode and the car has been sitting in the sun, it will go full-tilt on AC to cool down the interior. If the car has been sitting in cold weather, the system will maximize heater output. Note that both cars have an "ECO" feature on the climate control system which can increase fuel efficiency. This "ECO" mode usually decreases fan speed and minimizes use of the A/C compressor. The Insight EX and LX are likely no different. Overall, the Insight EX's climate control feature is very advanced for this class of car.

2.3. Seating Material

The seating materials in the Honda Insight EX and LX are similar, yet differ in a few specific ways. The Insight EX comes with an upgraded interior, featuring an 8-way power adjustable driver's seat and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Its driver's seat is higher than the Insight LX's and also provides better lumbar support. In contrast, the LX's driver's seat is a 6-way manual adjustable seat and sits lower than the EX's. The standard steering wheel on the Insight LX is tilt and telescopic while the EX has a leather-wrapped version. Both trims have similar rear seats with a 60/40 split bench. All Insight models have a "60/40 split rear seatback", but the EX and EX with Navi have fabric on the seat and the LX has "Premium" double-sided fabric. Both LX and EX have fold-down rear seatback, center armrest, and adjustable head restraints. Overall, both trim levels have comfortable and reliable seating. However, customers who experience regular back pain may opt for the EX due to its higher driver's seat and better lumbar support. The leather-wrapped wheel could also be a deciding factor for some.

2.4. Cabin Space

The next important feature on the 2019 Honda Insight EX vs LX are the differences in the cabin space. In a sedan, cabin space is essential in terms of passenger comfort and convenience. The EX has more room in regard to leg and shoulder space, compared to the LX. Specifically, the EX has a passenger volume of 100.5 cubic feet, very spacious for a sedan that is similar to the Honda Accord. Honda's attention to the little details made the EX cabin more luxurious, with a Tilt and Slide Moonroof, and a Driver's Seat Memory, the cabin is much more accommodating. Although the LX has less passenger volume, it is still a very comfortable space with 97.6 cubic feet of passenger volume. Both models have a 60/40 Split Fold-Down Rear Seat, which is very convenient for carrying larger cargo. With the more spacious cabin volume and additional features, the EX wins this category over the LX. Honda Insight EX shown ATH-Cognac Leather. Honda Insight EX shown. ATH-Cognac Leather. Honda Insight EX shown. ATH-Cognac Leather. Winner: 2019 Honda Insight EX It is apparent that the higher priced EX model has several improvements over the more affordable LX model. This makes it a better value and our winner for this argument. Although the cost is more, the improvements in aspects such as fuel economy, engine performance, and cabin space, make the difference well worth the price. Buyers who have a working knowledge of hybrid systems are undoubtedly aware of the differences in mpg and the effects of more horsepower. These are common reasons as to why hybrid owners choose to have hybrid vehicles as opposed to the commonly more affordable compact cars. With the significant difference in cabin space, and the possibility that the Insight may be used as family transport, the EX is by far the better choice for its more spacious and accommodating cabin. With a more comfortable interior and the fact that the trim level decides the car, the EX is a better choice for Insight consumers. That being said, the more affordable LX model still has very appealing features and it in fact may be a more ideal car for smaller families, or those who have just begun college life. Honda Insight LX shown. Interior-Ivory Cloth Honda Insight LX shown. Interior-Ivory Cloth

3. Performance and Efficiency

3.1. Both LX and EX models are equipped with the same Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) system that couples a 1.0-liter, 3-cylinder engine with a permanent magnet electric motor. The electric motor acts as a starter for the gasoline engine and provides power assist when accelerating. It also acts as a generator during braking or while coasting to capture energy to recharge the IMA's 144-volt Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH) battery pack. This system effectively combines the fuel economy and performance of an ultra-efficient small-displacement engine with the power and torque of a larger engine. The results are 61 horsepower and 68 lbs./ft. of torque from the engine and 10 horsepower and 16 lbs./ft. of torque from the electric motor, giving a combined total of 71 horsepower and 91 lbs./ft. of torque. With this system, both models deliver class-leading fuel economy and SULEV emissions certification, as well as enhanced performance and driving ability. 3.2. Due to the engine's lean burn valve control and the electrical load on the engine from the electric motor being controlled more efficiently than typical accessories, the Insight offers exceptional fuel efficiency. Both models deliver an impressive estimated city/highway fuel economy of 61/68 miles per gallon and an approximate cruising range of 600 miles. Combined with its 10.6 gallon fuel tank, this gives Insight drivers fewer trips to the gas station and more money in their pockets. 3.3. The only difference between LX and EX transmission options is added fun and driver control. The LX is equipped with a standard continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) that effectively utilizes the IMA's power and torque by smoothly and continuously changing gear ratios, allowing the engine to operate at the most efficient level in a variety of driving situations. The CVT also enhances driving comfort with seamless and linear acceleration, and provides optimal fuel economy. The EX comes with the same CVT, but also gives drivers the option of more fun and control with steering wheel mounted paddle shifters. This feature allows drivers the flexibility of manually changing gears with the flick of a fingertip, and then returning to full automatic mode. This can be especially useful when driving in hilly terrain or when needing sudden extra power, and does not compromise the exceptional fuel economy offered with the Insight's CVT. (Ono et al.2020)

3.1. Engine Power

As previously stated, the Honda Insight has only one transmission, having an E-CVT or better known as a Continuously Variable Transmission. This, of course, takes away the options of a manual or automatic transmission. Stepless and seamless shifting in the E-CVT allows the engine to always operate at the most efficient level, which can provide improvements in fuel consumption.

As for their emissions, the Honda Insight is recognized by ULEV standards and is a very low-emitting vehicle. In addition to its low emissions, its 10 6.0-14.0.

The 2011 Honda Insight comes in two trim levels: the EX model and the LX model. Both are similar in their features but have noticeable differences in their appearance and performance. Implementing a 1.3-liter, 8-valve, SOHC, i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine, the Honda Insight is able to get up to 98 HP at 5800 rpm and 123 lb.-ft. of torque at 1000-1700 rpm. Also including a permanent magnet brushless electric motor, the total horsepower is bumped up to 123 HP. The engine in the LX model is the same as the engine in the EX model. However, the differences in acceleration and braking on both models is something to consider when looking at the two.

3.2. Fuel Efficiency

Now comparing this to the VTEC-E engine's lean burn in the Insight's first and 2nd generation. Ideal conditions for the usage of lean burn are about 40% engine load and a steady cruise speed. The VTEC-E in the Insights is capable of using lean burn mode all the way to wide open throttle and back down. This means that there will be frequent activation and deactivation in the VTEC-E lean burn. The engine will switch between lean burn and normal mode with the conditions stated above. Totaling to 40% of the time in lean burn and 60% in normal operating mode. If the overall fuel economy for an Insight EX is 53 miles per gallon, this would mean about 36 miles per gallon using lean burn and 25 miles per gallon using normal operating mode. While the 25 miles per gallon is not too bad, the large difference between that and the CVT's constant 74 miles per gallon in lean burn is what makes the difference in the fuel efficiency ratings of the Insight LX and EX.

Lean burn in the CVT is only used in 4th and 5th generation. Its activation is dependent on engine load being less than 66%. This means the lean burn in the CVT in Insight LX is on 100% of the highway and about 80% of low elevation city driving. The engine will be getting 74 miles per gallon and emitting extremely low emissions 100% of the time in this scenario. This explains why the Insight LX is at its best performance for fuel efficiency on the highway at 66 miles per gallon.

The most important distinction between the Insight LX and the EX is in how they use fuel. The LX, with an EPA rating of 61 miles per gallon in the city, 66 on the highway, and 64 overall, falls 20 HP short of the 1.0 L, 3 cylinder VTEC-E in the EX, which gets an EPA rating of 49 miles per gallon in the city, 61 on the highway, and 53 overall. In every scenario Kenny and Zack's math proved to be 3.2 above wrong. The LX proved to have better fuel economy, regardless of what the Honda brochure may say. The LX's lean burn technology in the CVT is far superior to the VTEC-E lean burn in the CVT in the EX. Explanation is as follows.

3.3. Transmission Options

Choosing between the two transmissions, the available fuel efficiency in the Insight will be a deciding factor. The manual transmission will come standard with the Insight LX and has an EPA estimated fuel economy of 40 mpg city / 43 mpg highway. The CVT is available with the Insight LX and comes standard with the Insight EX. The CVT Insight LX has an EPA estimate of 40 mpg city / 43 mpg highway, while the Insight EX has an impressive 43 mpg city / 40 mpg highway. With the price difference of the Insight EX and LX being only $120, those who favor an automatic transmission would likely steer towards the Insight LX.

Both the Honda Insight EX and LX are available with the option of a five-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). The CVT is a type of automatic transmission that, in the Insight, adjusts to keep the engine operating within its most efficient power range, providing a smooth driving feel with linear throttle response while increasing fuel efficiency. Vehicles equipped with CVT are well known to reap the benefits in terms of fuel efficiency.

4. Safety and Technology

Despite the fact that the 2021 Honda Insight EX and LX don't seem to be all that different on the outside, like almost every Honda model, the differences come mainly in the features and luxury qualities of the vehicle. These range from safety technologies to audio and climate system features, and we are going to outline the main features and differences. Please note that the features listed for the EX model are what come standard for this trim, and the features for the LX model are all the same; however, they come as optional features. We found that the Honda Insight EX offers more in terms of safety, tech, and comfort compared to the base LX model, so it may be worth checking out if you are usually an economy car shopper. Starting with the safety technologies of the vehicle, this is a category that the 2021 Honda Insight LX and the 2021 Honda Insight EX greatly differ. The EX model Insight comes standard with the Honda Sensing Suite, which includes many driver assist features that will come in handy during your daily commutes to work or school. These features include Collision Mitigation Braking System, Road Departure Mitigation System, Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow, Lane Keeping Assist System, and Traffic Sign Recognition.

4.1. Honda Sensing Suite

This suite of electronic aids includes a Collision Mitigation Braking System which is designed to help reduce the likelihood of a collision occurring and minimize the severity of an impact. It works using a forward-facing camera and radar across the front of the vehicle to detect cars and pedestrians on the road. If it determines that you are at risk of a collision with a detected vehicle or pedestrian, it will activate the brake system. An audio warning will also prompt the driver to take action. This system is particularly effective in city driving situations. The CMBS system actually has 3 levels of warning and intervention and can be adjusted by the driver in the vehicle's settings.

The Honda Sensing Safety Suite is available as an optional upgrade on the Insight LX and comes standard on the Insight EX. This package includes a number of active and passive safety and driver assistive features that are designed to help improve the driver's situational awareness and, in some cases, intervene.

4.2. Advanced Driver Assistance Systems

Both trims have the same Honda Sensing suite, which is Honda's advanced driver-assistive system designed to help make driving safer. This suite includes a Collision Mitigation Braking System, Road Departure Mitigation System, Adaptive Cruise Control, and a Lane Keeping Assist System. It is important to note that despite both trims having these features, the advanced capabilities of these systems, such as setting the distance interval of ACC or the sensitivity of the collision mitigation braking system, may or may not be customizable on both trims. These features are designed to keep the driver from leaving the roadway, hitting other vehicles, or lessening the severity of a collision. Both trims also have auto high-beam headlights, which come on and off automatically. These systems are designed to add safety, and in some cases, the systems can prevent incidents from occurring.

The Insight EX and LX feature the Honda LaneWatch system, which is a small camera on the right side mirror. When the right turn signal is activated, a live feed from the camera is displayed and can show four times more area than the passenger side mirror. This system is designed to reduce the likelihood of collisions from cars approaching from the right rear. Though this system is only on the EX, it is most likely not a huge advantage over the traditional blind spot monitoring system on the LX. The LX has the Honda Sensing suite available as an option, but this will end up costing about a grand more than the price of the EX, which already has the Honda Sensing suite. So while the LX is cheaper, it does not come with more value. Picking the LX and adding Honda Sensing will end up costing more and will not have as many features as the EX.

4.3. Connectivity Features

Connectivity features in the Insight EX are quite impressive. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration come standard. Here is the traditional touchscreen interface Honda offers, and thankfully not the convoluted touch-based system found in higher-end Accords and Odysseys. This means all models get an actual volume knob, a feature that has returned to much fanfare. The only downside is that higher trims with embedded nav means Apple or Google maps will not show up on the touchscreen requiring phone-based mapping. The Elite and Touring have mobile hotspot capability, but all models come with 2.5-amp USB ports front and back for fast charging. Bluetooth and auxiliary functionality is standard across the lineup. The LX does come with a few notable advances over the Civic, but connectivity is an area where cost-cutting is evident. Apple and Android integration require stepping up to a Sport, OneTouch and OneTouch EX. Lesser models will have to sync their apps via Bluetooth and a more premium data plan is required for Hondalink as the base level 2G plan is not functional. All models have a USB port but strangely the Sport has only 1.0-amp front and the others have a 1.5 front and 1.0 rear for a slow charge. High-voltage battery depletion protection (i.e. jumping the 12-volt battery with the IMA battery) is also standard in the Insight EX but not the LX or base level Civic.

4.4. Audio System Options

Depending on an individual's preferences, music is a staple in everyday life. Providing premium audio systems within their vehicles is no exception for Honda. The Insight LX's audio system offers 6 speakers and 160 watts. Higher up on the trim level, the Insight EX offers an upgraded audio system with 8 speakers and 180 watts. Be it talk radio, classical, pop, or death metal, there is no substitute for the clarity that comes with these extra speakers. Also available on the Insight EX are SiriusXM and HD Radio, both of which are unavailable for the LX or any of the same tier vehicles in the hybrid competition. These options add a much broader spectrum of listening experience and honestly speaking, if you are accustomed to using these services, not having them can be a deal breaker. Though in comparison, with the exception of speaker count, this is not too large of a difference for anything audio related. Given the nature of a hybrid vehicle, soundproofing and audio quality ranks lower in terms of overall importance, but for the audiophiles out there, the Insight EX is the clear choice.

References:

Kernbach, M. E. (2021). Mechanisms and Mitigation: Effects of Light Pollution on West Nile Virus Dynamics. usf.edu

Shigeta, N. & Hosseini, S. E. (2020). Sustainable development of the automobile industry in the united states, europe, and japan with special focus on the vehicles' power sources. Energies. mdpi.com

Ono, M., Kawashima, H., Hara, H., Gao, C., Wang, R., Kogame, N., ... & Serruys, P. W. (2020). Advances in IVUS/OCT and future clinical perspective of novel hybrid catheter system in coronary imaging. Frontiers in cardiovascular medicine, 7, 119. frontiersin.org