Hyundai's Inster crossover stands out in the electric car market. With a European pricetag of €24,000, it competes at the more affordable end alongside the Dacia Spring and Leapmotor T03. Despite its short 3.82 meters and narrow 1.61 meters width, being half a size smaller than most small cars, it doesn't show any cost-cutting. Its charming and distinctive design features googly eyes and pixel indicator lights, usually found only on upmarket Ioniq models. Thick plastic panels on the flanks make it suitable for urban driving. The cockpit with digital instruments and a large touchscreen is familiar from the Kona, and the equipment includes air-conditioned seats, a reversing camera, and key assistants, raising it to a level seen on more expensive electric cars. There are also clever ideas like natty pen loops and rubber clips, and a folding table with multiple positions. The front perches turn into a cosy bench with an extra cushion, and the rear seat halves can be moved by 16 centimeters for adult comfort. However, the boot size shrinks from 351 to 280 liters. When the front backrests are folded, it turns into a lounge with extra legroom.At the charging station, the Inster's batteries have 42 or 49 kWh, taking around half an hour to reach 80% replenishment. With a maximum of 85 kW, it doesn't support fast charging but is light and economical, covering about 370 kilometers between charges. There are several energy recuperation levels that regulate the braking force. A heat pump ensures efficient air conditioning, and the battery can be pre-heated in winter. It can also act as a bi-directional power bank. The motor is mounted in the front and drives the front axle. The basic model has 91 kW/97 horsepower, and the top version has 85 kW/115 hp. It may not be fast on paper, but it manages up to 150 km/h and leaves many other small electric cars behind.On the road, its short wheelbase and narrow track make it feel more jumpy on motorways or undulating country roads with tight bends. But in the city, it shines. Quick off the mark at traffic lights and easy to maneuver in crowded traffic lanes, parking is a joy due to its narrow bodywork. It is compact on the outside and spacious on the inside, and affordable to buy. Hyundai proves that usable electric cars are becoming more accessible, and size isn't everything.By the way, the name Inster has nothing to do with Instagram. The car produced in Busan is marketed as Caspar in South Korea, but the bosses thought it was unsuitable for European markets. You can imagine using the Inster's seats for an emergency overnight stay or at a festival. And it's probably slimmer than you are tall, measuring just 1.61 meters in width.

Hyundai Inster - Compact Electric Excellence

Design and Aesthetics

The Inster's design is truly unique. Its googly eyes and pixel indicator lights give it a distinct look that sets it apart from other electric cars. The thick plastic panels on the flanks not only add to its durability but also give it a rugged charm suitable for urban driving. The overall design is a perfect blend of functionality and style.

Interior Features and Comfort

The cockpit of the Inster is equipped with digital instruments and a large touchscreen, similar to the Kona. The air-conditioned seats, reversing camera, and other key assistants make the driving experience more comfortable. The cleverly designed pen loops and rubber clips add a touch of practicality. The front perches turning into a cosy bench and the rear seat halves being movable provide excellent seating options for both adults and passengers.

Charging and Battery Performance

The Inster's batteries have a capacity of 42 or 49 kWh, and it takes around half an hour to reach 80% replenishment. While it doesn't support fast charging with a maximum of 85 kW, its light weight and economy allow it to cover about 370 kilometers between charges. The energy recuperation levels help in efficient braking and regenerating energy. The heat pump ensures efficient air conditioning, and the battery can be pre-heated in winter to improve charging performance.

Road Performance and Handling

On the road, the Inster has its unique characteristics. Its short wheelbase and narrow track make it more agile in the city but feel a bit jumpy on motorways or undulating country roads. However, at traffic lights, it is quick off the mark and happy to dart around in crowded traffic lanes. Its quietness at high speeds adds to the driving pleasure.

Versatility and Practicality

The Inster's ability to transform into a lounge with folded seats provides great versatility. It can be used for emergency overnight stays or at festivals. Its narrow bodywork makes parking a breeze, and the spacious interior offers more than enough space for passengers and luggage. Despite being built to a price, Hyundai has managed to pack in a lot of features and functionality.