Hyundai Inster sparks a video game-inspired race car.
Dubbed the Insteroid—a blend of “Inster” and “steroid”—the name underscores its sporty, muscular design, perfectly capturing Hyundai’s vision.
In Seoul, Hyundai unveiled the Insteroid, a race car concept based on the Inster EV. Inspired by rally cars and video games, it features a pixel-themed roof and rear wing, a soft white exterior with orange accents, aero front wheels, turbine-style rear wheels, and an enlarged air dam for better airflow.
Hyundai Insteroid Exterior Styling
The Insteroid boasts an enlarged front air dam designed to enhance airflow. A pixel pattern on the roof, lower doors, and rear wing reflects Hyundai’s signature design language. Apart from the round LED headlights and pixel tail lights, the design is completely refreshed from the standard Inster. Key additions include a wide and boxy body kit, a prominent roof scoop, and a massive WRC-style double-decker rear wing. The previously sealed front bumper now features large air dams for improved ventilation. Turbo fan-style rear wheels enhance aerodynamics, while louvered fins on the extended wheel arches further optimize airflow. The front wheels are fitted with aero covers featuring three circular cutouts.
Hyundai Insteroid In-Cabin Features
The cabin takes inspiration from Hyundai’s 2024 RN concept, featuring a roll cage that highlights its track-oriented nature. Deep bucket seats and a hydraulic-style handbrake add to its racing appeal. Unlike conventional EVs, the dashboard lacks a touchscreen but includes a driver’s display with a few essential buttons below it. The steering wheel is equipped with Boost, Track, and Mode buttons, along with four LED dots that symbolize ‘H’ in Morse code. The interior also features Space Invader-inspired graphics, adding a playful touch. For audio, Hyundai has integrated a Beat House sound system with a tube-style amplifier for an immersive experience.
Hyundai Insteroid Driving Dynamics
Projected to provide enhanced performance relative to the Inster EV.
The 2025 Insteroid debuts following Hyundai’s RN24 concept, which was developed to pack a high-performance EV powertrain into a compact design. The RN24 prototype utilizes a 650hp all-wheel-drive system, adapted from the Ioniq 5 N, enabling a 0-100 km/h sprint in 3.4 seconds. It is powered by an 84kWh battery, providing a range of 447 km. Hyundai has yet to disclose the technical specifications of the Insteroid, but the standard Inster EV offers two battery configurations: a 42kWh unit with a 97hp motor and a 49kWh option paired with a 115hp motor, delivering a maximum range of 370 km.
Also read: Skoda Elroq RS: First Look Ahead of April 3 Unveiling.
Hyundai Insteroid Market Introduction
The Hyundai Insteroid, an all-electric concept, will take center stage at the Seoul Mobility Show from April 3 to April 13, serving as a litmus test for public interest. While its production future remains uncertain, Paolo Gnerro, Hyundai’s head of product planning, has hinted that new Inster variants could emerge based on consumer demand. Meanwhile, a rugged Hyundai Inster Cross is on track for a 2026 global launch, catering to those seeking a more adventurous ride.
