Anticipating a resurgence of compact cars in 2025, the automobile industry seems to prepare to impress with a range of attractive and reasonably priced electric vehicles (EVs) following a decade dominated by mammoth SUVs and crossovers. The EV evolution is demonstrated by planned releases such as the electric Renault 5, the Citroën e-C3 and the Fiat Grande Panda, keenly followed by the Hyundai Inster hitting Irish markets in time for the festive season. Indeed, the hatchback renaissance is afoot.
One cannot overlook the innovative effort of Hyundai’s design team. Despite a history of producing uninspiring crossovers for the last thirty years, with their EV range, they have taken a bold stance against this convention. First came the forward-looking Ioniq 5, and then the rather polarising Ioniq 6. Their latest introduction is the Inster – a design presenting a certain unconventional charm or, to some, an ‘odd’ appearance. Regardless of opinions, it injects a sense of personality which has been notably absent in this market in recent times.
Designers of these smaller vehicles tend to lean towards ‘cute’ designs, as illustrated by the Inster’s wide-eyed front running lights. The expanded rear pillar and pronounced wheel arches add an element of robust charm to the vehicle. However, it struggles to match the charisma and appeal of the new Renault 5.
More than just appearances, the Inster harbours advantages. Hyundai appears to have struck gold by managing to incorporate substantial battery packs into small cars without compromising interior space – a challenge many competitors have stumbled on. During a recent European car of the year test event, the Inster didn’t top many testers’ lists. Maybe that’s why it felt like a breath of fresh air and ended up as one of the most buzzed-about cars of the year.
The interior of the Inster certainly made quite a buzz. The front passenger area provides generous legroom and features a standard 10.25-inch touchscreen interface as expected. The surprise lies in the back, where two adults can find ample legroom and head space – a truly unique find amongst modern EVs.
Partially attributing to the inclusion of two sliding rear seats, the Inster provides the option to increase either rear-seat legroom or luggage compartment size, varying from 280 litres to 351 litres. This feature, although not novel to the automobile industry, is implemented effectively in the Inster. To experience the ample space within this seemingly compact car, simply lower the rear and front passenger seats, and you are prepared for your trip to Ikea.
Surprisingly, even the driver’s seat can be laid flat, providing the possibility of transforming the Inster into lodging for the night if necessary. Initially, the boot space may appear insufficient, however, a deep compartment underneath the boot floor offers ample additional storage room.
The Inster’s positive attributes extend to its drive performance. Despite having delivered significant cabin space, a feat which renders the new Renault 5 extraordinarily compromised, one might predict that trade-offs would be required concerning the underfloor battery pack. Nonetheless, Hyundai continues to provide the Inster with two options of battery packs: a standard 42kWh or a long-range 49kWh, similar to Renault’s 40kWh and 52kWh offerings.
In respect to driving range, the Inster boasts more than 300km with the 42kWh pack and up to 355km with the larger 49kWh pack.
Differentiating from its French competitor, the Inster’s power output includes Hyundai’s choice of either a 71kW (96hp) electric motor for the standard version, or an 84.5kW (113hp) motor for the long-range variant.
Although exhilarating speed isn’t an attribute of the Inster, it certainly demonstrates its quickness. In an age where electric vehicles (EVs) tend to be large, weighty crossover types, the Inster’s nimble and agile character stands out.
Fit for urban living, the Inster’s light steering and throttle responses make it a breeze to drive on country roads. Similarly to most hatchbacks, it tends to understeer when pushed into turns at speed, but this is addressed with a confidence-boosting stability control system. Considering its short wheelbase, the Inster’s performance is surprisingly commendable.
After half a decade of indistinguishable, unexciting crossover models, it’s refreshing to see electric vehicle manufacturers shifting their attention to compact hatchbacks.
While mainstream European drivers regard this as a prominent area of contention, it may not be the top preference for Irish consumers. It’s also the source of smaller, comparatively affordable electric vehicles (EVs) that are sparking discussions among automotive executives about a turning point in the EV market.
“Certainly affordable” in this context implies a ballpark figure around €30,000, although there’s a leeway of roughly €5,000. In a time where the cost of a Toyota Yaris or a VW Polo exceeds €25,000, not to mention €33,000 for a Corolla, and a VW Golf tipping above €35,000, this is what’s deemed “affordable” for new vehicles presently.
The two persistent issues associated with EVs are typically their price and range limits. However, presented here is an attractive, roomy hatchback offering over 350km in distance coverage, potentially priced as low as €25,000 for its superior range variant.
Yes, the Inster may lack the nostalgic allure and advanced design features showcased by the Renault 5, yet this is compensated for by higher functionality and potentially a more economical price tag.
Even drawing a broad comparison with one of the most popular new releases in recent years speaks volumes. It’s a refreshing addition to a new car market urgently requiring a solution to the tedious monotony associated with numerous high-priced crossover EVs.
Hence, let’s warmly welcome vehicles like the Inster – affordable EVs that could rejuvenate the status quo of new electric cars.