All-new INSTER

• INSTER is the latest addition to Hyundai’s EV line-up
• The model is the company’s first A-segment EV designed for the European market
• The name “INSTER” stands for “intimate” and “innovative”, celebrating seamless social interactions and connectivity, perfectly aligning with a fast-paced, digital lifestyle, and reflecting its innovative, tech-savvy, and versatile character
• Characterised by a unique design, the car features an extended wheelbase, innovative interior capabilities, and new proportions that set it apart from competitors
• It comes standard with EV features that are more common in higher-segment cars, allowing charging from 10 to 80 per cent in around 30 minutes
• INSTER brings leading technology from Hyundai’s EV line-up to the A-EV segment
• Boasting superior roominess compared to other cars in the A-EV segment, the model offers enhanced comfort and space for passengers
• One of Hyundai’s missions is to provide accessible and versatile e-mobility solutions to a wide range of customers in Europe

Design

Exterior design

INSTER redefines the entry-level EV segment with its clean, futuristic exterior and high-tech design. Every element has been crafted to enhance functionality and aesthetics. They give the model a friendly, charismatic look while maintaining the ability to tackle everyday adventures.

A clever and charismatic companion for drivers with varied lifestyles, INSTER’s design language communicates friendliness and capability. The model’s rounded shapes contribute to a soft, approachable profile, while its proportions exude confidence.

At the front, INSTER introduces an iconic EV image, characterised by pixel-graphic LED turn signals and a black circuit board-style grille that integrates the headlamps, charging door, and front camera. These pixel lights are a distinctive element of the model’s identity, making it easily identifiable as a Hyundai EV. The rear design carries on this modern look with laser-patterned pixel LED tail lamps that mirror the front’s pixel graphics and round clear headlamps.

The lower bumper with skid plates and exposed curved wings reflects the model’s orientation to active lifestyles, conveying a sense of protection and readiness for both city and countryside drives. Even when stationary, the angle of the rear fender adds a sense of movement and dynamic energy.

The crossover variant, INSTER Cross, offers a more outdoor-focused look and comes with wide, rectangular front and rear bumpers to highlight its adventurous character, as well as embossed black claddings. The front and rear skid plates, coupled with the side rocker panels with complimentary 17-inch alloy wheels, provide extra protection when driving over rough roads. Roof racks will be standard with the option to add a roof basket to transport everything needed for everyday errands, outdoor sports, and camping trips.

INSTER features a variety of wheel options to suit different tastes: 15-inch steel wheels, 15-inch alloy wheels, and 17-inch alloy wheels for a premium look. From the side, the model’s long wheelbase emphasises its clean, modern profile, while pixel-inspired four-spoke wheels contribute to the futuristic aesthetic.

Depending on the variant, INSTER’s exterior offers various levels of customisation. The base model features halogen headlamps, LED daytime running lamps (DRLs), bulb-type tail lamps, and 15-inch steel wheels with wheel covers, complemented by body-coloured A-pillars and a sleek design. For a more sophisticated look, customers can upgrade to LED Projection headlamps, 17-inch alloy wheels, and a matte black A-pillar finish.

INSTER is offered in ten stunning exterior colours, inspired by the natural hues of hanji paper. These colours pay homage to the brand’s Korean heritage.

• Atlas White
• Tomboy Khaki
• Bijarim Khaki Matte
• Unbleached Ivory
• [NEW] Sienna Orange Metallic
• [NEW] Aero Silver Matte
• [NEW] Dusk Blue Matte
• [NEW] Buttercream Yellow Pearl (launch colour for the base model in Europe)
• [NEW] Amazonas Green Matte (launch colour for INSTER Cross)
• [NEW] Abyss Black Pearl

Interior design

INSTER offers a highly refined and spacious interior while blending modern technology with customisable features. The layout is designed to adapt to a variety of daily situations, from family trips to urban commuting. With a 2,580-millimetre wheelbase, more comparable to a B-segment car, INSTER provides generous passenger space, especially in the second row, ensuring that every journey is comfortable and enjoyable.

The model’s versatility is one of its key strengths. The front-row walkthrough allows for easy movement within the cabin and even makes it possible to exit on the passenger side when parked in tight spots. The rear seats offer sliding and reclining functions for added comfort or increased boot space. When folded, they even create a flat cargo surface. The front seats can also be folded down, providing practical solutions for carrying large items like sports equipment or creating a space for lounging inside the car.

In terms of cargo space, INSTER offers impressive flexibility. Its base cargo volume of 280 litres can be expanded to 351 litres by sliding the rear seats forward. With all seats fully folded, the maximum cargo capacity reaches 1,059 litres. This makes INSTER ideal for transporting larger items. Both the first and second-row seats can be folded to accommodate long objects, adding to the vehicle’s practicality for trips or larger cargo needs.

The interior lighting contributes to INSTER’s modern, welcoming atmosphere. Ambient lighting offers 64 customisable colours, allowing drivers to set the perfect mood. The sunroof enhances the sense of space by bringing in natural light, while the four-pixel dots on the steering wheel add a unique touch. These dots represent the letter “H” in Morse code and offer interactive functionality, including a welcome light sequence when starting the car, colour changes during reversing or voice command activation, and even indications of the charging process.

The design and materials used in the interior reflect an urban, “fun-to-drive” spirit. The seat covers feature a Pepita pattern, adding a fashionable touch to the cabin, while the khaki brown and beige surfaces, accented with soft yellow highlights, give the interior a stylish, contemporary feel. A decorative pixel pattern in the headliner adds an unexpected but exciting touch.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, INSTER’s interior materials also reflect Hyundai’s commitment to sustainability. The seat coverings are made from 100-per cent recycled PET, while the headlining contains 85 per cent recycled PET. Depending on the colour choice, the carpet consists of 30 to 100-per cent recycled PET, and the upper door garnish incorporates bio-polypropylene extracted from sugarcane. Even the black exterior paint is eco-friendly, using pigments made from recycled waste tyres instead of traditional carbon black.

INSTER Cross will offer a special colour and trim combination: grey cloth with lime-yellow accents. The unique trim will be complemented by lime-yellow accents on the dashboard.

Performance

INSTER delivers impressive performance, with competitive charging capabilities, an outstanding all-electric range, and advanced EV features.

The model offers an A-segment-leading, all-electric driving range of up to 370 kilometres on a single charge, setting a new benchmark for compact EVs. This exceptional range is based on the 49 kWh battery equipped with 15-inch alloy wheels, making INSTER a practical choice for those seeking extended urban and suburban mobility.

Charging INSTER is both fast and convenient. When connected to a DC fast charging station of ≥120 kW, the model can charge from 10 to 80 per cent in around 30 minutes, thanks to its maximum peak charging power of 85.3 kW (49 kWh battery). For home charging, INSTER is equipped with an 11 kW onboard charger (OBC), enabling simplified overnight charging.

INSTER also offers an optional Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) system, allowing customers to power external devices using the car’s battery. The V2L feature is available in two forms. Interior V2L provides a direct power outlet inside the vehicle, located at the lower centre fascia, with a maximum power capacity of 36.2 kWh (49 kWh battery). Exterior V2L enables connection via an adapter to the car’s charging port, providing the same 36.2 kWh capacity, making it ideal for powering equipment or devices on the go.

Offered in two battery configurations, both delivering a balance of power and efficiency:

In colder climates, an optional battery heating system ensures optimal battery performance by maintaining stable temperatures for both driving and charging. The available heat pump system helps heat the cabin efficiently by absorbing and reusing heat from external air and vehicle electronics, minimising range loss while operating in low temperatures.

Ride and handling

INSTER is engineered to deliver a smooth and refined driving experience, with advanced chassis and suspension systems tailored to excel in urban environments. Its front suspension employs a McPherson strut-type system, while the rear features a coupled torsion beam axle. Both systems are designed to ensure optimal ride comfort and stability. The precision of the Column-type Motor Driven Power Steering (C-MDPS) enhances handling, providing a controlled and responsive feel on the road.

INSTER’s controlled power offers a stress-free driving experience, especially in stop-and-go city traffic. The inclusion of modern driving aids, such as auto-hold and Smart Cruise Control with full-stop capability, further enhances driving comfort. Additionally, the intelligent regenerative braking system adjusts braking force based on traffic conditions and driving habits, promoting efficiency and smoothness in a variety of driving conditions.

When navigating over speed bumps or uneven surfaces, INSTER’s suspension system absorbs impacts without jarring the passengers. On motorways, the model offers a stable and enjoyable ride that rivals larger vehicles.

Despite being a compact EV, INSTER excels in minimising road noise and vibrations. Hyundai has focused on reducing NVH to levels typically found in higher-end vehicles. Reinforced body sealing, thicker door glass, and additional insulation have been employed to deliver a quieter cabin experience. Wind noise has been significantly reduced by incorporating double weather strips on the doors and body, while the thicker front door glass and full underbody cover further contribute to the vehicle’s quietness.

To improve the overall smoothness of the ride, Hyundai has also strengthened the rigidity of INSTER’s frame and applied a reinforced luggage board to dampen vibrations from the rear.

INSTER’s aerodynamic design plays a key role in its performance, featuring a drag coefficient of 0.309. This streamlined profile is achieved through meticulous attention to the vehicle’s lower body shape, the use of a full underbody cover, and the addition of a rear bumper lip that balances airflow. Together, these features help reduce drag, improve high-speed stability, and enhance energy efficiency.

Cooling resistance is managed by an external Active Air Flap (AAF), which controls airflow to optimise engine cooling while maintaining aerodynamic efficiency. The wheel design has also been optimised to allow smooth airflow around the vehicle, contributing to the overall reduction in drag.

Connectivity and technology

INSTER offers a cutting-edge infotainment system, designed to elevate the driving experience with a blend of advanced technology and user-friendly features. Central to this system is the 10.25-inch LCD cluster, which prominently displays EV-specific content, making vital information easily accessible to the driver. The large screen enhances usability with an intuitive Graphic User Interface (GUI), offering a range of four theme selections to personalise the driving experience. The State of Charge (SOC) display is also enhanced, improving ease of use for EV owners.

Alongside the digital cluster is the 10.25-inch navigation system (AVNT), offering a high-resolution display for more detailed information. This wide-type screen improves navigation and supports Over-the-Air (OTA) updates, ensuring that the system is always up-to-date without the need for manual interventions. Personalised profiles are another highlight, allowing different drivers to store their preferences, such as wallpaper and navigation locations, for a more customised experience.

With the natural language recognition system, voice control is more convenient, which lets drivers control the infotainment and vehicle features without needing to touch the screen. For even greater flexibility, INSTER supports Bluetooth multi-connection, allowing two devices to be connected simultaneously and making it easier to switch between media sources or phone calls.

The infotainment system with EV-specific content integration displays real-time charging station information and driving range on the map, helping drivers manage their routes efficiently. It also makes charging easier and more convenient, supporting Plug & Charge at major stations like IONITY and Aral Pulse.

The Hyundai Digital Key 2 Touch is an optional upgrade that replaces the need for a traditional smart key. The feature allows drivers to unlock and start their INSTER using their smartphone and share digital keys with up to fifteen devices, with customisable profile settings for each user.

For a smoother experience, optional touch-sensor door handles allow the car to be unlocked simply by pulling the handle, without pressing any buttons. Meanwhile, the standard Smart Key system includes a motion sensor to defend against cyberattacks.

INSTER offers a standard four-speaker audio system, with two in the front and two in the rear doors. For those seeking a richer sound experience, an optional six-speaker system adds two tweeters in the front doors.

Charging devices inside the vehicle is effortless with the standard C-type USB charging port in the front. An optional wireless charging pad, complete with a bar-type indicator to monitor charging status, adds further convenience. Additionally, a rear C-Type USB charging port is available as an option for passengers in the back.

INSTER also integrates several driver-centric features for maximum convenience. The standard paddle shifters enable drivers to control regenerative braking levels from the steering wheel. For a more advanced regenerative braking experience, the i-pedal mode allows the driver to control acceleration and braking with one pedal.

The Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) further enhances convenience, allowing drivers to engage the parking brake with a button press. The system also features an auto-hold function, keeping the vehicle stationary when fully stopped without needing to continuously step on the brake.

Advanced driver-assistance systems

INSTER is outfitted with Hyundai’s comprehensive suite of Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) – Smart Sense, delivering driving assistance often reserved for larger, premium vehicles.

Driving safety features:

Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) 1.5 actively warns the driver of potential collisions with vehicles, motorcyclists, pedestrians, or cyclists. It can automatically apply the brakes if the driver fails to act in time. FCA also provides protection during left turns by detecting oncoming traffic and braking, if needed.

Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) helps the driver avoid accidental lane departures when travelling at certain speeds. If it detects that the vehicle is drifting without the use of a turn signal, it will alert the driver and, if necessary, make small steering adjustments to keep the car in its lane.

Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA) uses the camera and navigation data to recognize speed limits. If the vehicle exceeds the limit, it warns the driver to reduce the speed. The feature has been enhanced to be more user-friendly, allowing the driver to deactivate the warning sound by long-pressing the mute button on the steering wheel for three seconds.

Driver Attention Warning (DAW) monitors driver behaviour for signs of inattention or drowsiness. It issues alerts when focus lapses are detected, and it may recommend taking a break, helping to prevent fatigue-related accidents.

High Beam Assist (HBA) automatically toggles between high and low beams depending on traffic conditions, ensuring optimal visibility for the driver and other road users.

In-Cabin Camera (ICC), in its latest version, enhances safety by monitoring in-car activity for more vigilant driving.

Rear Occupant Alert (ROA), based on a door-logic system, detects if a rear door has been opened and closed before starting the car and alerts the driver with a message on the cluster to check the rear seat when exiting the vehicle.

[OPTIONAL] Blind-Spot View Monitor (BVM) displays the rear-side camera view in the instrument cluster when the driver activates the turn signal. It allows for safer lane changes by showing blind spots in real-time.

Driving convenience features:

Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go (SCC) maintains a safe distance from the vehicle ahead and can bring the car to a complete stop and resume driving in heavy traffic, easing the stress of stop-and-go driving.

Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control (NSCC-C) adjusts the vehicle’s speed based on upcoming road conditions, such as curves, ensuring a safer and more comfortable driving experience on motorways.

Lane Following Assist (LFA) works alongside LKA to keep the vehicle centred within its lane, even on curvy roads. LFA continuously makes subtle steering corrections to maintain the car’s lane position.

Highway Driving Assist (HDA) assists in maintaining speed, distance, and lane position on motorways. This system reduces fatigue on long drives by providing semi-autonomous assistance.

Leading Vehicle Departure Alert (LVDA) notifies the driver when the vehicle ahead begins to move, preventing delays in traffic flow.

Parking safety features:

Rear View Monitor (RVM) displays the area behind the vehicle when reversing to ensure clear visibility while parking.

Reverse Parking Distance Warning (PDW-R) uses sensors to alert the driver of obstacles when backing up, reducing the risk of collisions.

[OPTIONAL] Surround View Monitor offers a comprehensive, 360-degree view of the vehicle’s surroundings for safer parking.

[OPTIONAL] Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist (PCA-R) helps avoid collisions with pedestrians or obstacles while reversing by issuing warnings and applying brakes automatically when necessary.