Extreme heat and MPG?

gilbertguy · 12-27-2011, 01:10 PM

Hello everyone,

I currently have a gen 1 Insight and know that it takes a big hit on MPG when the AC is running. I live in Phoenix and am looking to possibly buy a G2 Insight but am hoping you guys can tell me how this car does in extreme heat with the AC heavily taxed.

1) Can the AC system keep up with extreme heat? 110-115F
2) What kind of MPG hit do you take in that kind of AC usage?
3) Any other personal observations in that kind of heat for this car?

Just want to be fully informed before I purchase this car.

2Slow4u · 12-27-2011, 01:43 PM

I'm not sure how the Gen 2 insights run the AC compressor, but some of the more advanced hybrids these days have a high voltage (HV) AC compressor. This way its not tied mechanically to the engine, and you can run the AC while the engine is stopped.

**Jayemtee** · 12-27-2011, 01:59 PM

It's belt drive.

I live in Las Vegas, NV which is close to the same climate. I affectionately think of myself as a desert rat. I like the heat, I can handle the heat. OTOH, I have no problem running the A/C when a guest or myself want extra cooling. So it's kinda relative as to how much you want the A/C to "keep up". I think the Insight G2 does as well as my Corvettes and Mazda CX-7 did.

In never did MPG comparisons with A/C on versus off. My summer MPG never fluctuated more than 2 MPG.

I think your bigger shock will be the cold air and the winter fuel blends. My mileage dropped about 4-5 in the winter. I think/hope that grill blocks helped.

Eli · 12-27-2011, 04:19 PM

Why are you thinking of selling the Insight, just out of curiosity?

gilbertguy · 12-27-2011, 08:19 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Eli

Why are you thinking of selling the Insight, just out of curiosity?

Now hold on a minute there, didn't mention anything about selling my little G1. Wife and I are looking to get a car for her in the next 6-12 months, ever since our 04 Prius got totaled she has wanted another 4 door hybrid. I think she is kind of stuck on a Prius right now but for the money I can get a fully loaded Insight for the cost of a bottom end Prius.

I know there is a slight hit in MPG on the Insight but for the money I'd have to drive the Prius like 300K to make up the cost difference. Guess I have 6-12 months to work on her and start making her think about the G2 Insight.

Eli · 12-27-2011, 08:41 PM

Ahhh, I see.

I guess that's what I get for making an ASSumption, lol.

Carry on...

Cobb · 12-28-2011, 05:43 PM

The AC wont allow you to hang meat in the car.

I am lucky to maintain 47mpg in 100+ heat. I can easily get 70+ without it. Its belt driven. Id recommend a kia if you want to hang meat in your automobile in 100+ degree heat and maintain 30+mpg.

Sent from my Autoguide iPod touch app

gilbertguy · 12-28-2011, 07:23 PM

When I had the Prius the AC was adiquate but was never as cold as my Focus AC. If you can run the AC on the G2 Insight in the summer and still see in the 40's that sounds pretty good to me.

gilbertguy · 01-03-2012, 05:50 PM

So what kind of MPG hit (if any) are regular I2 owners seeing during heavy AC use out there? How is the engine power and does it kill your battery causing forced regen during heavy AC use?

zzzptm · 01-05-2012, 10:21 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by gilbertguy

So what kind of MPG hit (if any) are regular I2 owners seeing during heavy AC use out there? How is the engine power and does it kill your battery causing forced regen during heavy AC use?

Might want to ask this again in five months.

Just sayin'...

Personally, I'll be happy to let you know when I get there. Texas is supposed to have another La Niña drought this year, so we'll be plenty hot.