With each new EV, Hyundai appears to be taking an entirely different direction. The new 2025 Inster doubles down on quirky appeal and affordable electric practicality. Slotting beneath the Kona Electric in price, the Inster is the brand’s latest entry into the growing subcompact electric crossover segment.
Built for urban commuting but cleverly packaged to feel roomier than it looks, the Inster brings a much-needed dose of charisma to the EV sector. With its pixel-art-inspired lighting, playful colour accents, and cutesy upright silhouette, it stands out among a field of increasingly samey-wamey compact SUVs.
Quirky Design, Surprisingly Spacious Cabin
At just 3,825mm long and 1,610mm wide, the Inster’s footprint is tiny by SUV standards. Step inside, though, and we’re talking Tardis levels of roominess with a heavy hint of retro-chic charm. The airy glasshouse, clever packaging, pastel hues, and bench-like front seating with “walk-through” footwell open up the cabin. Rear passengers get surprisingly generous legroom, and there’s enough headroom to wear a selection of hats.
The boot isn’t huge at 280 litres, but a useful double-floor setup adds versatility, while folding the 50/50 split rear seats expands cargo space to over 1,000 litres. This is a compact family hold-all that will happily tackle everyday errands, shopping runs, and even a weekend getaway.
Driving Character: Light, Nimble, and Comfortably Confident
Despite its upright stance and budget brief, the Inster feels grown-up to drive. The electric drivetrain delivers a quiet, smooth torque with a light steering setup that makes tight arm-twirling manoeuvres effortless. Suspension tuning prioritises comfort, and while there’s a touch of lean in the bends, it never feels sloppy.
In daily driving, the Inster excels at what it’s designed for: low-stress commuting. With responsive low-speed acceleration and good visibility, it’s easy to park and pleasant to pilot.
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Powertrain, Range, and Charging
Buyers can choose from two battery options. The entry-level variant pairs a 42kWh pack with a 97bhp motor, delivering a 0-62mph acceleration time of 11.7 seconds and a top speed of 87mph. Its claimed range is 203 miles. The bigger battery is 49kWh with a 115bhp motor, cutting the 0-62 to 10.6 seconds, and increasing range to 229 miles. In terms of performance 115bhp version offers a bit more punch, although even the smaller battery gets the job done.
Both variants benefit from Hyundai’s heat pump technology, which improves winter efficiency and supports DC fast charging. Expect a 10-80% top-up in around 30 minutes under ideal conditions.
Trims, Tech and Rivals
In the UK, the Inster is available in two trims. The entry-level version includes 15-inch alloys, keyless entry, rear parking sensors, cruise control, and a pair of 10.25-inch screens with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The higher-grade variant adds 17-inch wheels, LED lighting, a wireless phone charger, ambient interior lighting, heated front seats, and front and rear parking sensors.
UK pricing starts at £23,495 for the 97bhp model, with the better-equipped 115bhp version starting from £25,045. That puts the Inster up against budget EVs such as the Dacia Spring (from £18,000), the Renault 5 E-Tech (£23,000), the BYD Dolphin (£26,000) plus the Mini Cooper Electric and the MG4 EV (both at £27,000).
Verdict: Style Meets Substance in the City
In a lineup of blandness at your local EV charging station, the new Hyundai Inster stands out with quirky but entirely functional design. This crossover is charismatic and charming enough to justify the price, with the added bonus of usable capaciousness and adeptness at negotiating the urban jungle. You’ll easily forgive its less-than-electrifying performance because of its eager agility around town.
Most importantly, in a segment that often fails to excite, the Inster injects some much-needed personality without sacrificing usability. With usable range, an inviting cabin, decent equipment levels, and a price that tempts, Hyundai may have found the formula for the ideal entry-level electric SUV.
