Obviously, the Insight is worth it to the owners here, but I'm trying to decide if it will be worth it to me in my own personal circumstances.
I currently drive a Honda Del Sol, which is enjoyable especially during Spring and Fall, but I really want better gas mileage than the low 30's I'm getting with it. It cost me about 5 grand, but it's paid in full, and has so far not had any major problems at 140k miles. I'm currently a student with a very small commute, but for those roadtrips and trips home, it would be handy. I'm also moving to Houston for the summer where I'll have at least a 25 mile commute to work. The increased mileage of an Insight would be extra nice here.
I considered purchasing a used Insight until I read the forums here for a week or two. The general direction I was getting from owners was to buy new to get the warranty and possibly a tax break. I even called the dealer and found that I could have new one in two weeks if I pay a deposit. However, purchasing an Insight would require me taking out a loan, and I will be paying it at least until April 2007. Plus, from what I've read here, there won't be a tax credit for the 2006 Insight, and may or may not get a tax deduction.
So, while this will be a personal decision, I wouldn't mind some input from experienced Insight drivers (and possibly some individuals older and wiser than me). Is the better gas mileage worth getting into a car loan, and will the savings really pay for themselves in my case?