The new and improved Honda Insight has arrived, with the Japanese company tweaking the suspension and interior for more comfort and class.

Honda has added a top spec EX model featuring leather upholstery and satnav, though with the company's current 'Affordable Driving' offer, the basic SE model is £14,995. Honda says that makes it the cheapest hybrid 'by a mile'. Take that, Toyota.

The Insight gets suspension tweaks including adjusted spring rates, altered rear camber angles and a redesigned rear suspension brace. We here at Car Enthusiast were among the folk that criticised the Insight's harsh ride. Hopefully these measures have rectified the situation.

In fact, the press release announcing the changes says that they 'were in direct response to the comments received from early customers and the media' with the improvements 'made to address negative feedback on ride and comfort levels.' To Honda's credit, that's some rare candour from a car company.

We weren't over-fond of the interior either, but it now benefits from some improved plastics (though where we don't know), new dashboard and upholstery colours and smatterings of chrome. Dynamic Blue Pearl and Carnelian Red Pearl are added to the paint list, too.

It's on sale now.

Mark Nichol - 7 Dec 2010