Discontinued in 2014, the Honda Insight is about to make a comeback for the 2019 model year. The big news comes from the Japanese automakers, which just announced that a prototype model will be shown at the 2018 Detroit Auto Show in January. Described as a precursor to the all-new model, which will go on sale next year, the prototype is will preview a vehicle described as an "upscale, stylish five-passenger sedan positioned above the Civic in the lineup."

Honda didn't release too many details, but it did mention that the new Insight will feature the company's latest-generation, "innovative two-motor hybrid system." Honda also promises "fuel economy that is competitive with other compact hybrid models." The third-gen hybrid should also include "premium features and performance desired by mainstream car buyers" and present an entirely new approach in terms of styling and packaging. Well, this is definitely good news, as the previous Insight lacked some of the modern features available in vehicles from rival brands.

While precise data isn't yet available, Honda is making a third attempt at competing against the popular Toyota Prius. Introduced in 1999, the first-gen Insight was the first hybrid vehicle sold in the United States and had relative success on the market until 2006. Redesigned from the ground up, the second-generation model, launched in 2009, posted far better sales in both the U.S. and Europe, but that didn't last long. After selling more than 20,000 units per year in 2009 and 2010, and over 15,000 in 2011, North American sales dropped to less than 6,000 in 2012 and less than 5,000 in 2013. As a result, the Insight was discontinued in 2014.

Honda is reviving the nameplate for the third time, and this is good news for the market, but will the new Insight have what it takes to steal customers from the Toyota? We will probably find out more about that in January, so make sure you stick around for updates from the Detroit Auto Show.

References

Honda Insight

Read our full review on the 2014 Honda Insight.

Read more Detroit Auto Show news.