Hyundai Inster vs Abarth 500e
Two electric Hatchbacks go head to head. Which EV is the better buy for Australian drivers in 2026?
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The Hyundai Inster starts from $33,000 before on-road costs, while the Abarth 500e opens at $60,500. That makes the Hyundai Inster the more affordable entry point by $27,500.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $36,300 and $66,550 respectively.
Both models qualify for Fringe Benefit Tax (FBT) exemption, which is a significant advantage for salary-sacrificed novated leases. Depending on your tax bracket, this can save $5,000-$15,000+ per year compared to an equivalent ICE vehicle.
Safety Rundown
The Hyundai Inster holds a 5-star ANCAP rating vs 4 stars for the Abarth 500e.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Hyundai Inster packs more ADAS features with 4 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 1 in the Abarth 500e.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, a reversing camera.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Hyundai Inster stands out with Apple CarPlay that you will not find on the Abarth 500e. The Abarth 500e counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging and JBL audio. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Hyundai Inster uses a Electric producing 74kW and 147Nm of torque, sent through a single-speed to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 10.6 seconds.
The Abarth 500e responds with a Electric making 113kW and 235Nm, paired to a single-speed automatic driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 7 seconds.
The Abarth 500e has the clear power advantage at 113kW vs 74kW. In the real-world sprint, the Abarth 500e is 3.6s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Battery: 42kWh (Hyundai Inster) vs 42kWh (Abarth 500e), giving WLTP ranges of 327km and 253km. DC fast charging peaks at 73kW (Hyundai Inster) vs 85kW (Abarth 500e).
Space & Comfort
The Hyundai Inster measures 3,825mm long on a 2,580mm wheelbase, 152mm longer than the Abarth 500e at 3,673mm (2,322mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Hyundai Inster generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 280L in the Hyundai Inster and 185L in the Abarth 500e, giving the Hyundai Inster a 95L advantage. The Hyundai Inster seats 5 vs 4.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
9.4m diameter
Excellent
Based on 9.4m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Hyundai Inster) vs 3 years / 150,000km (Abarth 500e). The Hyundai Inster has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Hyundai Inster if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, value a longer warranty, or prefer Hyundai's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Abarth 500e if: You prioritise performance, or prefer Abarth's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Hyundai Inster takes 6 of 9 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. If boot space matters, the Hyundai Inster has a clear edge. The Hyundai Inster adds peace of mind with a longer 5-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Hyundai Inster and Abarth 500e?
The Hyundai Inster is the cheapest at $33,000 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Abarth 500e by $27,500.
Which has the longest driving range?
The Hyundai Inster has the most range at 327km (WLTP).
Which charges fastest?
The Abarth 500e accepts the highest DC charging at up to 85kW.
Which is safest?
The Hyundai Inster has the highest ANCAP rating at 5 stars.
Which has the most boot space?
The Hyundai Inster has the largest boot at 280L.
Which has the best warranty?
The Hyundai Inster has the longest warranty at 5 years / 1000k km.
Which is the most powerful?
The Abarth 500e makes the most power at 113kW. The Abarth 500e is quickest to 100km/h in 7s.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
Comments (0)
Sign in to join the conversation
No comments yet. Be the first!
