Both Honda and Toyota recognized the importance of aerodynamics to a highly efficient car. Afterall, when travelling at highway speeds more energy is lost parting the air than in any other way. Even at slower speeds, reducing aerodynamic drag is very important.

An aerodynamic feature common to both cars are smooth plastic underbody panels that reduce air turbulence under the car.

However, it is fair to say that the Insight has taken aerodynamics further than the Prius. Honda claims the lowest coefficient of drag of any production car at 0.25, as compared to the Prius at 0.29.

Other aspects of the Insight that contribute to its amazingly low drag include:

• Its more teardrop shaped body, with the body narrowing in width while the rear hatch gently slopes down and the rear unbody slopes up by 15º.
• Air dams in front of all four wheels
• Enclosed rear wheel wells
• Optimally shaped front air intake, and even the mirrors.

Side view of Insight, during wind tunnel testing

Side view of Toyota Prius