‘Roid Rage: Hyundai Insteroid EV concept drops with Drift Mode and fake engine sounds

Hyundai has taken the wraps off its all-electric Insteroid concept at an exclusive event at the Peaches D8NE store in South Korea’s capital, Seoul.

The Insteroid’s unexpected arrival comes just two days ahead of its originally-scheduled debut at the 2025 Seoul Mobility Show.

Following the initial Insteroid teaser images released by Hyundai last week, this full reveal confirms the expected Group B-esque wing, flared wheel arches with 21-inch aero wheels, and Pikes Peak-inspired front spoiler.

The latest images of Hyundai’s halo Inster also show a stripped out cabin with bucket seats, a roll cage, and a retro-style instrument cluster not dissimilar to the Renault 5 Turbo rally car of the 1980s. Each element of the interior is fully adjustable in line with the car’s user-centric motto of “build it, play it, break it, repeat’.

The Insteroid will also benefit from what looks to be an incredibly loud Hyundai Beat House sound system, and a ‘Message Grid’ enabling interactions with other drivers.

Despite stopping short of confirming a battery and powertrain, Hyundai confirmed that the Insteroid – like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and upcoming Ioniq 6 N – will enjoy Drift Mode and a boost button for additional driver engagement. Moreover, the Insteroid will also get a synthesised ‘fake engine’ note akin to Hyundai’s performance flagships.

To keep weight down, the Insteroid employs lightweight lattice structures in its construction. Its interior fabrics are fashioned from eco-friendly recycled yarns using a single-piece, made-to-measure process.

“The Insteroid is a celebration of pure fun,” explained Hyundai design centre chief and VP, Simon Loasby. “It’s not just about how it looks, but also how it sounds and how 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.”