The Honda Insight is equipped with Honda's innovative Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) system, which juggles the requirements of the engine, electric motor, charging system and nickel-metal hydride batteries to achieve 61-mpg (city) and 70-mpg (highway) while offering acceleration comparable to cars that achieve only 30- or 40-mpg. Unlike a traditional electric-powered vehicle, the Honda Insight does not require recharging with any external device because the batteries regenerate during coasting, cruising and braking. The only indication the driver has concerning the operation of the IMA system is an electronic display (the Charge/Assist Indicator) on the dashboard and a feature that shuts the engine off and re-starts it instantly under certain idling situations.

Both a 1.0-liter, I3 VTECH-E gas engine and a compact permanent-magnet electric motor are standard. The electric motor boosts the gas engine's horsepower by 9% and its torque by a substantial 38%. A 5-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard.

The Honda Insight is all-new for 2000.