Author-Photo: Özgür Sunay
INSTER offers a comprehensive technology package with advanced safety and driver assistance systems, as well as long range and improved charging performance. Bringing the powerful SUV design line to a compact electric city car, INSTER attracts attention wherever you go with its striking appearance.
Maximum autonomy and plenty of space for passengers…!
Located in the increasingly crowded panorama of electric city cars, the Inster represents Hyundai’s latest electric vehicle innovation and offers an ideal solution for urban mobility thanks to its compact size, distinctive design and advanced technological features.
With a length of 3.82 meters, a width of 1.61 meters and a height of 1.57 meters, Inster is positioned as an electric city car in SUV format.
The modern and futuristic design stands out with rounded lines, circular headlights and pixel lighting borrowed from the Ioniq series, giving the vehicle a strong personality. Despite its compact dimensions, the passenger compartment offers significant interior volume and the 2.58 meter wheelbase provides unparalleled spaciousness. Luggage volume varies between 238 and 351 liters depending on the position of the sliding rear seats and can reach 1,059 liters with the rear seats folded.
To discover the strengths and weaknesses of a car with all the features that can become a reference point in its segment, we had the opportunity to test the vehicle in Istanbul for several days, both in the city and on the road. The version we tested on the road was equipped with a 115 horsepower (85 kW) electric motor and a 49 kWh battery, providing a range of up to 370 km on the WLTP combined cycle.
Wide fenders and solid cladding combine with INSTER’s distinctive SUV silhouette to create a sporty appearance. The top speed of the Hyundai INSTER is limited to 150 km/h and it accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 10.9 seconds. For charging, Inster offers DC power support up to 85 kW, allowing you to charge your vehicle from 10% to 80% in approximately 30 minutes. AC power reaches up to 11 kW, which is more than enough for home charging or charging at standard public charging stations.
Thanks to its compact dimensions and small turning radius, Inster stands out with its agility and maneuverability in urban traffic. Its soft suspension provides high comfort even on rough roads. The low center of gravity typical of electric vehicles ensures good stability despite some slippage in corners.
The Hyundai Inster’s acceleration and departure are very smooth for a small electric city car, and the interior is well balanced to meet the driving demands expected of this vehicle. Inside, the spaciousness of the cabin is truly surprising considering its exterior dimensions. Individually sliding and reclining rear seats increase the versatility of the interior.
On the technology front, the Inster’s infotainment system is quite advanced; Its 10.25-inch LCD screen makes managing functions intuitive and offers personalized driving experiences. The standard high-definition navigation system supports over-the-air (OTA) updates, personalized profiles and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity, while voice recognition lets you easily control the vehicle without distraction. Hyundai Bluelink technology can also be used to remotely monitor the vehicle’s status and various functions.
Standard Smart Key system with touch door handles and Start Button, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist recognition, active lane tracking system, driver fatigue detection, adaptive cruise control, seven airbags (front, front side, side curtain and front center) and blind spot warning system (ADAS) security systems are among the safety features added to this small mini electric city car.
The last thing I want to say about this vehicle is its similarities with its new competitors entering the Turkish market, Fiat Panda… Also, Renault5 is electric. My only criticism of Hyundai INSTER is its small rims and tires. Yes, we used these rims and tires on rocks, hills, rough terrain and even forest roads. However, the rims and tires must be larger and more usable on every road. In general, its interior is quite spacious, it has a reasonable electric range and a practical structure, which is extremely useful in a traffic-heavy city like Istanbul.
Automobile Magazine – English
