(Image credit: AutoWeek / Brenda Priddy & Company)

I don't think anyone doubted that Honda was going to let the Prius run away with the compact hybrid market. But for the few doubters out there, AutoWeek has some spy shots of an all-new entry-level Honda, caught during some hot-weather testing in the southwestern United States, "that looks suspiciously like a Prius."

"Although Honda hasn't commented on the car," the article said, "reports indicate the four-door hatchback, five-seat front-driver replaces the two-seat Insight, which ended production in the 2007 model year. The sub-Civic Hybrid-priced model is likely due in 2009 as a 2010 model. The Civic Hybrid now lists for $23,270."

From the photos, it appears that this isn't entirely a Prius rip-off; there are many cues from the Honda FCX Clarity fuel cell vehicle as well. Either way, it's clear that this type of wedge design is becoming more and more associated with the word "green."