The Hyundai Inster is the brand’s first A-segment EV, developed from the Casper — a city car under 3.6 meters long — and tailored specifically for the European market. Unlike the Casper, the Inster is exclusively electric, embodying intimacy and innovation, the two ideas that inspired its name.
As a (very) compact SUV, bridging the A and B segments, the Inster boasts balanced proportions and rounded forms, with distinctive pixel-style LED lighting elements at the front and rear. Details such as skid plates and a robust bumper emphasize its versatile nature. Wheels up to 17 inches and a generous wheelbase underscore a modern profile fit for both city life and beyond.
Spacious, Sustainable Interior
Inside, the Inster surprises with a roomy and adaptable cabin. The extended wheelbase — 23 cm longer than the Casper’s — ensures generous space, especially for rear passengers. A “walk-through” design enables easy movement inside, while foldable front and rear seats offer multiple cargo options, with a maximum load capacity of 1,059 liters. The interior blends urban style with sustainable materials like recycled PET and bio-based polymers, affirming a commitment to eco-conscious mobility.
Standard or Long Range
Available in Standard and Long Range versions, the Inster offers two battery choices. The 42 kWh battery delivers a WLTP range of 327 km (city: 473 km), while the 47 kWh option stretches to 360 km (city: 493 km) — 10% and 4% gains respectively. Despite larger 17-inch wheels on the Long Range versus 15-inch on the Standard, the weight difference is just 15 kg. The Standard Range wins on efficiency, consuming 14.3 kWh/100 km, compared to 15.5 for the Long Range.
The Long Range version also offers slightly more power (84.5 kW/115 hp vs. 71 kW/97 hp), a top speed of 150 km/h (vs. 140 km/h), and quicker 0–100 km/h acceleration: 10.6 seconds compared to 11.7. Both share the same 147 Nm of torque from the permanent magnet synchronous motor on the front axle.
Charging is quick and convenient — 10% to 80% in about 30 minutes with max DC input of 73 or 85 kW. Home charging is handled via an 11 kW onboard charger, taking 4h–4h35m to reach full capacity. Cold weather systems like a heat pump and battery heating ensure optimal performance in all climates.
High Tech, High Safety
The Inster’s tech package includes dual 10.25″ screens — a digital instrument cluster and central infotainment with OTA navigation updates. Features include personalized profiles, natural voice control, Bluetooth multi-connection, EV-specific functions, and real-time charging station data. Added comforts include touch-sensor door handles, wireless charging, USB-C ports front and rear, regenerative braking paddles, and i-Pedal one-pedal driving. An electronic parking brake with Auto Hold rounds off the convenience.
Safety-wise, the Inster comes with the full Hyundai Smart Sense suite: Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with pedestrian, cyclist, and junction detection, Lane Keeping Assist, Driver Attention Warning, High Beam Assist, rear seat passenger alert, and an in-cabin camera for added vigilance. Rearview parking camera is also standard. It’s a feature set usually found in larger, more premium vehicles.
Driving & Pricing
The Inster features a McPherson front suspension and rear torsion beam setup — compact and balanced for comfort and stability. Steering and regenerative braking are smooth and refined, with adjustable levels. Even over uneven roads, the ride remains quiet and composed — something rare in this class and size.
Three drive modes let you prioritize efficiency, performance, or a balanced setting with no fuss. With immediate EV torque, the Inster easily meets daily driving needs.
Available in three trims, the Inster Comfort is sold in Portugal starting at €24,900 (€19,250 + VAT for businesses) and already includes most driver aids. The Style adds rear LED lights, front parking sensors, 15″ alloy wheels, sliding rear seats, wireless charging, roof rails, and more for €27,450 (€21,400 + VAT). The Style Plus includes the 47 kWh battery and 17″ wheels for €29,450 (€22,790 + VAT). Transport and registration fees are extra. Prices in Germany start at €23.900, €25.000 in France, €23.000 in Italy and €22.780 in Spain.
What Welectric thinks
Hyundai consistently delivers well-engineered, well-designed vehicles — and the Inster is no exception. Its design is stylish, appealing across generations, and combines practicality with personality.
Interior space is a standout, especially in the rear. Materials feel higher than usual quality for this segment, with special mention to the seat fabric. While the boot is modest with rear seats pushed back, it expands to 351 liters when moved forward and exceeds 1,000 liters with seats folded — including the front seats!
Pricing is accessible, but perceived quality is beyond expectations. Everything feels sturdy and well put together — a real achievement at this price point.
In our brief driving experience, the Inster showcased its urban credentials with plenty of punch and agility — but it was onboard comfort that truly stood out. Hyundai has advanced a target of over 136,000 BEVs sold in Europe this year, doubling 2024 sales, and the Inster is expected to play a significant role in this growth. It’s an ambitious yet realistic goal for this urban K-Pop star, which we’ll likely be seeing everywhere very soon.
