Hyundai Inster vs Chery E5
Two electric cars 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 Chery E5 opens at $37,990. That makes the Hyundai Inster the more affordable entry point by $4,990.
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 $41,789 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
Both the Hyundai Inster and Chery E5 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Chery E5 packs more ADAS features with 5 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 4 in the Hyundai Inster.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, 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 Chery E5. The Chery E5 counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, heated front seats, power tailgate and Sony 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 Chery E5 responds with a Electric making 155kW and 288Nm, paired to a auto driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 7.9 seconds.
The Chery E5 has the clear power advantage at 155kW vs 74kW. In the real-world sprint, the Chery E5 is 2.7s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Battery: 42kWh (Hyundai Inster) vs 58.9kWh (Chery E5), giving WLTP ranges of 327km and 430km. DC fast charging peaks at 73kW (Hyundai Inster) vs 60kW (Chery E5).
Space & Comfort
The Hyundai Inster measures 3,825mm long on a 2,580mm wheelbase, 599mm shorter than the Chery E5 at 4,424mm (2,610mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Chery E5 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 280L in the Hyundai Inster and 400L in the Chery E5, giving the Chery E5 a 120L advantage.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.2m diameter
Average
Based on 11.2m 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 7 years / 999,999km (Chery E5). The Chery E5 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Hyundai Inster if: You want the lower entry price, or prefer Hyundai's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Chery E5 if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, value a longer warranty, or prefer Chery's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Chery E5 takes 6 of 9 key spec categories. If boot space matters, the Chery E5 has a clear edge. The Chery E5 adds peace of mind with a longer 7-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 Chery E5?
The Hyundai Inster is the cheapest at $33,000 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Chery E5 by $4,990.
Which has the longest driving range?
The Chery E5 has the most range at 420km (WLTP).
Which charges fastest?
The Hyundai Inster accepts the highest DC charging at up to 73kW.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Hyundai Inster and Chery E5 all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Chery E5 has the largest boot at 400L.
Which has the best warranty?
The Chery E5 has the longest warranty at 7 years / 1000k km.
Which is the most powerful?
The Chery E5 makes the most power at 155kW. The Chery E5 is quickest to 100km/h in 7.9s.
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
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