A better Insight; Honda's new hybrid is a serious contender that should finally move out of the shadow of the Toyota Prius, writes ENDA MULLEN.

Byline: ENDA MULLEN

LOOKING back, the original Honda Insight was probably more of an experimental car than a viable contender in the "green" marketplace.

It might be unfair to say it sank without a trace, but it certainly didn't make much of a splash.

For a start, it had more space for batteries than passengers - and a relatively hefty price tag probably didn't help either.

It actually looked rather good, with the sort of futuristic profile one might expect from a hybrid petrol-electric vehicle.

It reminded me of Ed Straker's car from the Sixties sci-fi series UFO - the sort of car people back then imagined motorists would be driving in the future.

If current predictions are anything to go by, we'll all be driving hybrid or electric cars before too long.

The original Insight had its thunder somewhat stolen by the Toyota Prius, the car that came to define the rise of the hybrid.

It didn't seem to matter that Honda later went on to produce a perfectly good hybrid in the shape of the Civic IMA. It was the Toyota that became the "must drive" car for anyone with an environmental conscience.

Politicians were queueing up in droves to place an order and even film stars couldn't wait to be seen behind the wheel.

It was the equivalent of buying a big badge that said: "Look at me - I care about the planet."

Marketing aside, the Insight also lost out as it only had two seats.

This time around, the Insight is a five-seater.

What's more, the second-generation model actually looks a little like the Prius. But, you know what they say - if you can't beat them, join them.

Driving the Honda hybrid isn't really that different to driving an ordinary car.

The hybrid technology means that the petrol engine and the battery-powered electric motor work seamlessly in unison.

Like the original Insight and Civic IMA, the new Insight features Honda's Integrated Motor Assist hybrid system.

What it consists of is a small petrol engine, an electric motor, a compact battery pack and a regenerative braking system.

The latest version is lighter and more efficient than its predecessor.

When accelerating, the electric motor assists the 87bhp petrol engine, and the energy used when braking recharges the battery.

When you come to a halt, the engine cuts out, creating a silence that is slightly eerie at first - but it is something you soon get used to.

It's a simple but successful formula that reduces fuel costs and emissions.

In line with its environmentally friendly credentials, the Insight is simple and spartan inside. But it's a reasonably comfortable and practical family saloon.

Dedicated environmentalists will ensure the car is always in "Econ" mode.When engaged, the car's computer ensures fuel economy is maximised.

The driver also gets to play a part, thanks to a speedo that changes colour to indicate whether your driving style is economical or not.

The 1.3-litreVTEC four-cylinder is mated to a CVT automatic transmission, and the Insight is pleasant, if not exciting, to drive.

But with a combined economy figure of 64.2mpg, it's not the sort of car you're going to want to race around town in at breakneck speed anyhow.

The Insight costs from pounds 15,990. But the chance to gloat at those who drive gas-guzzling toff-roaders is priceless.

Factfile:

Model: Honda Insight SE Engine: 1.3-litre petrol plus electric motor Power: 87bhp Top speed: 113mph 0-62mph: 12.5 seconds Fuel economy: 64.2mpg CO2 emissions: 101g/km Warranty: Three years/ 90,000 miles Price: pounds 15,990 On sale: Now

CAPTION(S):

A CLEAR STEER: The Insight helps you to monitor how efficient your driving is