2023 Casper Test Drive: Popularity Soars in 2024
Hello, this is Double View, your automotive influencer.
Reflecting on the past year, the model I experienced the most was the Hyundai Casper.
As a working professional, I often traveled domestically with my wife on weekends,
and to save time, I frequently took the KTX train to various locations and rented a car.
Renting was affordable, and it made driving in unfamiliar areas comfortable while also simplifying parking.
Moreover, when traveling for business, I often had to leave in the morning and return the same day,
and during these trips, I frequently rented the Casper due to its affordability.
Additionally, I had the opportunity to drive various models provided by the brand,
allowing me to experience everything from basic options to fully loaded versions.
The Casper gained popularity for its compact and adorable design since its launch.
Some expected it wouldn't have long-term appeal, but it has consistently remained popular, recording sales of over 3,000 units per month since its release.
In the first four months of 2024, sales reached 13,115 units, averaging about 3,279 units per month, and it's impressive to see sales increasing as we enter the second quarter.
2023 Hyundai Casper Test Drive
The Casper's compact body allows it to navigate urban settings and narrow country roads with ease.
Even novice drivers can park it easily due to its small size, and it provides excellent visibility compared to other vehicles in its class, leading to high driving satisfaction for people of all ages.
Although the space may feel tight for four adults, couples can comfortably use the front seats while storing bags and other items in the second row.
The gasoline 1.0 engine performs adequately on flat roads, but when carrying more passengers or heavy loads, it feels underpowered.
If you want to drive at speeds exceeding 62 mph, I recommend the gasoline 1.0 turbo model, which boasts a maximum output of 100 ps and maximum torque of 17.5 kg·m.
For models of the same trim, expect a price difference of about 900,000 KRW (approximately $675 USD) between the 1.0 gasoline and 1.0 gasoline turbo models.
When comparing prices based on the gasoline 1.0 model, they are as follows:
Smart: 13,850,000 KRW (approximately $10,400 USD)
D Essential Light: 14,900,000 KRW (approximately $11,200 USD)
D Essential: 16,900,000 KRW (approximately $12,700 USD)
Inspiration: 18,700,000 KRW (approximately $14,000 USD)
Now, let's compare prices for the gasoline 1.0 turbo model:
Smart: 14,800,000 KRW (approximately $11,100 USD)
D Essential Light: 15,850,000 KRW (approximately $11,900 USD)
D Essential: 17,800,000 KRW (approximately $13,300 USD)
You can receive exemptions from individual consumption tax and other taxes.
Additionally, you can enjoy a 50% discount on highway tolls and other paid roads, as well as a 50% discount for public parking.
Thus, the maintenance costs are generally lower than those for standard compact or mid-sized sedans, making it a recommended first car for new drivers.
2023 Casper Specifications and Estimated Pricing Information
Overall Length: 141.7 inches
Overall Width: 62.8 inches
Overall Height: 62.0 inches
Wheelbase: 94.5 inches
Transmission: 4-speed automatic
Gasoline 1.0 Smart Specifications
Maximum Output: 76 ps / 6,200 rpm
Maximum Torque: 9.7 kgm / 3,750 rpm
Tire Size: 185/65R 15
Curb Weight: 2,173 lbs
Combined Fuel Efficiency: 33.6 MPG (City: 31.6 / Highway: 36.5)
Maximum Torque: 17.5 kgm / 1,500 ~ 4,000 rpmMaximum Output: 100 ps / 4,500 ~ 6,000 rpm
Tire Size: 205/45R 17
Curb Weight: 2,337 lbs
Combined Fuel Efficiency: 28.9 MPG (City: 25.8 / Highway: 33.3)
Acquisition Tax & Bond Discount: 0 KRW (Small Car Exemption Applied)
=> Estimated Actual Purchase Price: 13,850,000 KRW (approximately $10,400 USD)
The vehicle price for the Gasoline Turbo 1.0 Inspiration model is 19,600,000 KRW (approximately $14,800 USD), which is 5,750,000 KRW (approximately $4,300 USD) more than the base model.
I recommend it to those who desire stylish interior and exterior design along with a unique driving experience.
You can choose from various trims and engines based on your needs.
The 2023 Casper is tax-exempt, making it possible to purchase for around 10 million KRW (approximately $7,500 USD), but this might still be a burden for new graduates who have not saved enough money.
For those individuals, I recommend KS Auto Plan's long-term rental or lease options, which allow you to become a Casper owner without any upfront deposit.
Many people perceive long-term rentals as expensive, but it varies depending on the customer's circumstances.
To clarify, individuals with limited driving experience may face higher personal insurance rates, but long-term rentals apply the rental company's insurance rates, resulting in lower insurance costs.
Additionally, if an accident occurs due to inexperienced driving, long-term rentals do not increase personal insurance rates and only require compensation within the coverage limits, making accident handling stress-free.
In contrast, if you purchase a new car and have an accident, your personal insurance rates may increase, and the repair costs can be substantial.
So, until you become more comfortable driving, you can use long-term rentals without worry and then return the vehicle and purchase a new one once you're ready.
This post received content support from KS.