Hyundai Casper EV Cross filmed in South Korea

We reported earlier that the pint-sized Hyundai Inster EV is getting a rugged new look. Spy shots from South Korea now show the Casper EV Cross, designed to appeal to drivers who want a bit more of an adventure on their city commute. Hyundai Inster EV Cross is Casper's European twin, and this is the first glimpse of the toughened-up model designed for the Korean market.

The original Casper EV launched in Korea with a price tag of around $20,000. It has been a hit due to its affordability and practicality, since with government subsidies, its price drops to an astonishingly low $8,000. In Europe, the Inster EV starts at just under $26,600.

The new Cross trim adds a dose of off-road styling to the compact EV. The Casper gets chunky front and rear bumpers, black cladding along the wheel arches, skid plates for a touch of underbody protection, and a roof rack for hauling gear. A recent video from HealerTV revealed these design elements, showing a car that looks ready to tackle anything from city streets to at least some gravel roads.

The Casper EV Cross might look tough as much as it wants, but it's still a small city car. It still is perfect for navigating tight urban spaces. And, of course, it's still all-electric. The Inster EV Cross in Europe has a WLTP driving range of 221 miles with the larger battery, while the Korean Casper Electric offers a respectable 195 miles on a single charge.

Sad news for our American readers - there is no official word on US availability of either Casper or Inster at this moment. There is still some hope, though, since a test vehicle was recently spotted in California, sparking rumors about its potential arrival.

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