Hyundai Inster vs Mazda CX-5
What's the difference?

Hyundai Inster

$27,990 - $48,990

2025 price

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Mazda CX-5

$37,240 - $56,150

2026 price

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BYD Atto 2

BYD Atto 3

BYD Sealion 5

Chery Tiggo 8 PRO MAX

Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross

Summary

2025 Hyundai Inster

2026 Mazda CX-5

By Andrew Chesterton

By Emily Agar

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Not Applicable, 0.0L

Inline 4, 2.5L

Fuel Type

Electric

Unleaded Petrol

Fuel Efficiency

0.0L/100km (combined)

7.4L/100km (combined)

Seating

Likes

Smooth, easy acceleration
Properly quiet on the road
Clever packaging maximises space

Comfortable, dynamic drive
Practical family interior
Strong safety package

Dislikes

Too expensive
Roof box storage eats into driving range
Width is tight with two on board

No hybrid option
Engine can feel sluggish
No rear charging ports

2025 Hyundai Inster Summary

There are really only four things you need to know about the all-new Hyundai Inster. It's small outside, yet surprisingly big inside. It's all electric. It's cute as a button. And it's as practical as a Swiss army knife.

Actually, there's one more thing. It's cheap for an EV. But it's still not that cheap, given the wave of cut-price Chinese product now on our shores.

So, can the Hyundai Inster carve itself a slice of the entry-level EV market?

View full pricing & specs

2026 Mazda CX-5 Summary

The new-generation Mazda CX-5 is here, promising to be bigger, better and bolder, with fresh styling, sharper handling and more technology. But in a market where hybrid power is becoming increasingly hard to ignore, has Mazda left the CX-5 at a disadvantage? I’ve spent a week with the Evolve grade to find out for you.

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Interested in a Mazda CX-5?

Deep dive comparison

2025 Hyundai Inster 2026 Mazda CX-5

Verdict

The target market for the Inster isn't huge, and Hyundai knows it won't be a runaway best-seller for the brand. But those in the market for a bite-sized EV will find the Inster feels bigger, and drives better, than they might expect.

Verdict

The Mazda CX-5 Evolve kicks some goals and with its comfortable on-road handling, robust safety equipment and practical interior, it’s still a solid choice for families looking for a mid-sized SUV. The only thing it’s missing is a hybrid powertrain, which would make this already well-rounded package even more compelling.

Hyundai Inster vs Mazda CX-5 What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Hyundai Inster vs Mazda CX-5
What's the difference?