ON THE ROAD – IAN LYNAS DRIVES THE HYUNDAI INSTER EV

The Hyundai INSTER certainly boasts a catch your eye design, the South Korean carmaker’s first EV in the A segment of the market and it has been designed for the European market and is the latest model to join the company’s family. With its clean, futuristic exterior and high-tech design, each and every element has been crafted to enhance functionality and aesthetics. At the front, 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 and 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. Recently I spent a week with the INSTER and as the days progressed I must admit I got to like it more.

I found it came in to its own in the town and city; one car that was a joy to park. I am often asked as regards the name of a car and the INSTER of course came up; the name stands for intimate and innovative. Despite its modest dimensions I discovered a highly refined and spacious interior while blending modern technology with customisable features. The layout is very much designed to adapt to a variety of daily situations, from family trips to urban commuting. The 2,580mm wheelbase is 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. Versatility is key as 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, while the rear seats offer sliding and reclining functions for added comfort or increased boot space. Fold down the rear seats and lots of cargo space. The front seats can also be folded down, ideal when the need arises to carry long, awkward cargo, such as sports equipment.

I found performance to be most acceptable; range perhaps not just as good as I would want; however many will be okay with this. Hyundai state a driving range of up to 370 km (229m) on a single charge. This range is based on the 49 kWh battery equipped with 15 inch alloy wheels, making this small SUV EV a practical choice for many. Depending on the battery rest to 100kph (62mph) in 10.6 seconds and on to a top speed of 150kph, (94mph). Thankfully charging is fast and convenient, you 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). Need to charge at home, you get an 11 kW on-board charger, enabling simplified overnight charging. There is an optional Vehicle-to-Load system, allowing you to power external devices using the car’s battery and this 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.

Summing up, the INSTER for me delivered a fun drive and what surprised me most was just how practical a vehicle it is.

Ian Lynas