Hyundai INSTER

City driving is where the INSTER makes the most sense. It is a four-seat electric car with a tall, boxy shape that gives more space than its length suggests, easy parking in narrow streets and a range that still covers a week of short trips. Hyundai quotes up to 229 miles on the WLTP cycle (about 368 km) for the 49 kWh car on 15 inch wheels.

Range, batteries and performance

Two batteries are offered. The 42 kWh Standard Range has 71 kW (97 PS) and a range of 203 miles on 15 inch wheels. The 49 kWh Long Range has 85 kW (115 PS), a range of 229 miles on 15 inch wheels or 223 miles on 17 inch wheels, and a top speed of 93 mph. The Long Range does 0 to 62 mph in 10.6 seconds and the Standard Range in 11.7 seconds. Hyundai has not published a DC charging power or a charge time for the INSTER.

Space and flexibility

The floor is flat, all four seats fold flat, and the rear seats slide forward by 16 cm, which grows the boot from 238 to 351 litres. A converter in the exterior charging port, or the interior socket, can supply up to 3.6 kW of Vehicle-to-Load power for a laptop or an e-scooter.

Variants and price

There are three versions. The INSTER 01 costs from £22,995, the INSTER 02 from £27,005 and the INSTER Cross from £28,245. The Cross adds rugged bumpers, a skid plate, black wheel cladding, unique 17 inch alloy wheels and roof rails, plus a roof basket as an option. Motability is available.

Safety and awards

Euro NCAP gave the INSTER four stars in 2025. The 01 has Smart Cruise Control with Stop and Go, and the Cross adds Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist, Blind Spot View Monitor and Surround View Monitor. Hyundai lists Golden Steering Wheel 2025 for the best car under 25,000 euros and World Electric Car of the Year 2025.

Key facts

• Range: up to 229 miles (WLTP, 49 kWh, 15 inch wheels)
• Batteries: 42 kWh or 49 kWh
• Seats: four
• Safety: Euro NCAP, 4 stars (2025)
• UK price from: £22,995 (INSTER 01)