The electric SUV with which Hyundai aims to repeat the success of the Pony... 50 years later

It was 1975 when Hyundai introduced the Pony, the first Korean-developed car. Its arrival marked a turning point in South Korea : it allowed the emerging middle class to own their own vehicle, boosted local commerce, and marked the beginning of a national automotive industry. Manufactured mostly with Korean components and designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro, the Pony was not only a sales success (it captured half of the country's passenger car market), but also a symbol of technological independence for Hyundai.

Today, five decades later, the new Hyundai Inster takes up the mantle of that iconic model. With a completely different approach (now 100%electric ), but with a similar philosophy: to offer an accessible, modern, and functional mobility solution, adapted to the changing times. And, this time, from Europe .

The Inster, in detail

Beyond its compact and modern design, the Inster stands out for its aerodynamic efficiency (drag coefficient of 0.309), thanks to elements such as the full lower fairing and a lip on the rear bumper that optimizes airflow. Its silhouette remains urban, but its proportions are larger than those of the Pony, allowing it to offer a more spacious and versatile cabin, with sliding, reclining, and folding rear seats, and even folding front seats for transporting bulky items. In fact, when we tested it at its launch, the brand convinced us that you can recline all the seats and fit a mattress for sleeping. And yes, it is possible.

In terms of technology, the leap is enormous. Where the Pony offered the essentials (a radio, physical controls, and reclining seats), the Inster incorporates a dual 10.25-inch digital screen, a navigation system with remote updates, and a digital key that turns a smartphone into an entry and start control. It also allows simultaneous connection of two devices via Bluetooth and offers advanced voice control.

Mechanics

On the mechanical side, the Inster offers two electric powertrains (97 and 115 hp) paired with 42 and 49 kWh batteries, capable of traveling up to 370 kilometers on a single charge. Thanks to fast charging, 100 kilometers of range can be recovered in just 12 minutes.

Safety, another area in which the Pony pioneered its time, now reaches levels worthy of higher segments. The Inster incorporates more than 15 driving assistants, including intelligent cruise control, lane keeping, autonomous emergency braking, and parking assistance, among others.