I don't know who came up with this phrase, but I do agree with it: 'American is an F-150 nation'. That almost sound like something Jeremy would say on 'Top Gear'.

But for the most part we are. America is a nation where we have work to do and the Pick-up truck is how a lot of it gets done.

But back to the question at hand... I would think it has to do with marketing. Honda likely has a waiting list for the Insight and does not need to advertise it. When they start stacking up on dealers lots Honda will spend a few bucks letting people know they are out there.

I looked at a Malibu 'hybrid' and was not that impressed. I liked the Malibu well enough, but the hybrid did not make me want to spend the extra money. The Fusion did seem like it was worth the money if I did a lot of city driving, but I don't. Almost all of my driving is long distance since I live in rural Oklahoma and if I am in town I only drive about 10 miles a week if that much.

Right now it is hard to beat an early 90's 300D for ride quality vs. cost per mile, but I am looking forward to seeing what a Volt is like in person.

And, of course, anything Mercedes comes out with will get the hardest look of all.