When was the last time a vehicle came out in only a hybrid trim? Before the Toyota Prius, the Honda Insight took the stage as the predominant hybrid-only vehicle, but sales weren’t nearly as successful as the famed Prius. Honda has been pretty mum about their upcoming hybrid-only vehicle, but they have told the public that the Pruis-killer will cost around $18,500. The current Prius starts at $21,500 before dealer markups. The new Honda will take a shape similar to Honda’s fuel cell FCX Clarity which underwent a limited release in Santa Monica, California recently. The arched 5-door hatchback shape, which is similar to the Prius’ profile, is symbolic of the hybrid movement.

Honda FCX Clarity

Sure, numerous hybrids have come out within the last decade, but does a Nissan Altima Hybrid sound as green as a Toyota Prius? By coming out with a hybrid-only vehicle, Honda is prepping itself to cut directly into Prius sales with its lower price and better retention of value. Toyota will be countering with its third generation Prius that features tweaked styling and a solar panel to power the in-cabin electronics.

To lower the cost of its new hybrid, Honda is integrating a refined version of its Integrated Motor Assist hybrid system which costs 50% less the previous version. Japanese reports suggest that the fuel economy of this mystery Honda is “insane” and can travel up to 71 miles per gallon, which easily tops the Toyota Prius.

(Photos Courtesy of Jalopnik and KPG Photography)

The mystery car’s shape is ridiculously similar to that of the Prius’.

I’m personally looking for Honda to make this baby go 55mpg at least and have a nice, clean interior similar to that of the civic. Hopefully they can add a bit of sporty flavour to the interior so as to not keep it boring. I’ve never been fond of the hybrid system in-dash displays, so hopefuly Honda can add a little spunk to it.

Updates will be added when more news leaks out. Have a good one.

-ees