Hyundai’s small electric SUV just got a little more upscale

Hyundai launched the Inster Lounge in Europe, a new range-topping model that brings a touch of luxury to the small electric SUV segment.

Meet the Hyundai Inster EV Lounge, a new premium trim

The Inster is Hyundai’s smallest, most affordable electric vehicle in Europe. It’s also the brand’s most popular EV.

Starting at under €25,000 ($28,500), the Inster ranked the second-best-selling A-segment EV in Europe in 2025, where it remains so far this year.

To attract a new segment of buyers, Hyundai is introducing the Inster Lounge, a flagship variant. Unlike the rugged Inster Cross, the new Lounge model features a “premium-inspired” interior, additional features, and more.

“With INSTER Lounge, we prove that an urban SUV can combine design, comfort, and flexibility with exclusivity,” according to Hyundai Motor Europe president and CEO, Xavier Martinet.

The Lounge variant includes added features like natural leather seats, premium speakers with Kevlar membranes, and a knitted headliner and sun visor. Despite its compact dimensions, the new elements “contribute to a more refined and enjoyable in-car experience,” Hyundai said.

Inside, the new model comes with standard fully foldable front-row seats and adjustable second-row seats to open up interior space.

The Hyundai Inster EV Lounge will be available with a 42 kWh battery and 95 hp (71 kW) electric motor, or a larger 49 kWh battery and a more powerful 112 hp (84 kW) motor.

Depending on the configuration, Hyundai said the new Inster Lounge will offer a WLTP driving range of up to around 223 miles (360 km).

With a DC fast-charging capacity of 120 kW, the electric SUV can charge from 10% to 80% in about 30 minutes.

Buyers can choose from a “carefully curated range” of exterior color options, including an exclusive new Glow Mint finish. Other options include: Atlas White, Unbleached Ivory, Tomboy Khaki, and Abyss Black Pearl.

For the interior, Hyundai offers an exclusive Dark Grey and Mint Green combination that adds Glow Mint accents.

The new Hyundai Inster EV Lounge is priced from €29,850 ($35,000) in Germany for the 49 kWh battery, which offers a range of up to 223 miles (360 km).

Earlier this year, Hyundai launched the Casper Electric Lounge in Korea. The Casper Electric is rebadged and sold overseas as the Inster.