Honda adds business appeal with new EX Insight hybrid

HONDA’S lower-cost hybrid, the Honda Insight, has just gone more upmarket with the introduction of an EX model that’s likely to appeal to small business users.

The new Honda Insight EX features leather, sat-nav and hands-free Bluetooth telephone preparation as part of its standard equipment tally.

The £20,215 EX price tag for the five-door hatchback hybrid might make it the most expensive in the Honda Insight range, but company car drivers can still benefit from 10% benefit in kind company car tax thanks to its petrol/electric hybrid power source.

For the remainder of this year and 2011/12 tax years, the company car tax rating is 10% (that’s just £403 a year company car tax for a 20% tax payer). In 2012/13 the company car tax rate rises to 12%, increasing the company car tax payable marginally to £484 for a 20% tax payer.

In addition to the topline EX model, the rest of the Honda Hybrid range has been revamped with changes to the suspension to improve ride comfort – a result of initial customer criticism.

Meanwhile ES models and above gain standard rear parking sensors and interior trim improvements.

The Honda Insight hybrid range is priced from £16,225 for the 1.3 S model.