Honda explains the lack of moonroof and LED lights on the Insight

When the Honda Insight went from concept to production in late 2008, it stayed mostly true to what was first shown at the 2008 Paris Motor Show. However, as usual, there were a few detail changes, chiefly to the lighting. The concept version had really cool looking LED headlight clusters. However, when the production version appeared in Detroit this year, those were replaced by more conventional halogen units. While the LEDs are efficient and would have saved some energy, Honda reminds people that the Insight was designed as the Hybrid for Everyone! A big part of making the Insight accessible was keeping the cost down and those LED light clusters remain very expensive. Thus they were left on the cutting room floor.

Another feature that wasn't on the concept but does appear to be missed by some buyers is a moonroof. This option was sacrificed in the name of efficiency since it adds weight to the car in addition to cost. As such the engineers decided it wasn't worth eating into the efficiency.

[Source: Honda]

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