Check out Hyundai’s INSTEROID concept which has just been unveiled in South Korea.
INSTEROID merges gaming influences with extensive customisation to captivate a new generation of drivers.
Based on the INSTER SUV, it takes sporty design and the user experience to new heights.
INSTER’s selection as a top three finalist for the 2025 World Car of the Year award, sets a solid foundation for this radical ‘What if?’ project.
Crafted in secrecy by Hyundai Motor’s European design team, INSTEROID is a true concept car.
Its name cleverly fuses the playful essence of ‘INSTER’ with the dynamic energy of ‘STEROID’, reflecting its spirited nature and muscular look.
Much like the off-road-inspired INSTER CROSS derivate shown at INSTER’s debut in 2024, it’s another step in the hot-selling production model’s journey.
Its mission is clear: to challenge conventions, create emotions and redefine what a sporty EV can be.
“INSTEROID is a celebration of pure fun – a journey where we explored new ways to ignite emotion and imagination in every detail,” Hyundai’s Simon Loasby said.
“It’s not just about how it looks, but also how it sounds and how it makes you feel.
“From its bold visual language to the immersive sound experience, it’s a concept that invites everyone to dream a little louder and smile a little longer.”
INSTEROID’s sporty, gaming-inspired features include an extended, widened body, track-optimised wheels and a prominent wing spoiler, diffuser and wheel arch air vents delivering advanced aerodynamics.
Inside, the cockpit offers a stripped-down layout, with bucket seats, a roll cage and a specialised instrument cluster creating an immersive driving experience.
Every element is fully adjustable, reflecting the user-centred spirit of a garage-built machine true to the motto: “Build it, play it, break it, repeat.”
Adding to its multisensory experience, INSTEROID produces a unique sound signature, leaving an unforgettable impression.
Drift Mode promises competitive thrills paired with light-hearted driving enjoyment.
Playful details, such as the integrated Beat House sound system and Message Grid, enable personalised interactions, further enhancing driver engagement.
To optimise performance and reduce overall weight, lightweight lattice structures are seamlessly integrated.
The striking exterior, finished in soft white shade, is punctuated by a single bold orange highlight – an unmistakable visual statement.
Completing the vision, a reflective race suit with prominent INSTEROID lettering captures the fusion of car culture and youthful expression.
INSTEROID also embodies Hyundai Motor’s commitment to sustainability by pioneering innovative approaches to eco-conscious materials.
The interior showcases 3D knit fabric crafted from recycled yarns, using a single-piece, made-to-measure process.
The concept car will be showcased from April 3 to April 13 at the Seoul Mobility Show, offering the public a chance to experience this innovative concept firsthand.
Serving as a halo model for the INSTER lineup, INSTEROID is set to make a lasting impression at major auto events in key markets such as Korea and Europe, delivering a refreshed brand image while further boosting consumer interest in INSTER.
CHECKOUT: Hyundai Tucson Hybrid: Fuss-free economy