Hyundai Unveils Concept Three Sketches: A Glimpse at the Affordable Ioniq 3 EV

Hyundai Motor Company has officially unveiled the first design sketches of its upcoming Concept Three electric hatchback, a vehicle that previews the much-anticipated Hyundai Ioniq 3. Set to make its debut at the Munich Auto Show (September 9-14, 2025), this concept model showcases Hyundai’s latest design philosophy and its ambition to expand its fully electric Ioniq lineup. Positioned as an entry-level EV within Hyundai’s portfolio, the Ioniq 3 is expected to become a practical and affordable alternative for urban drivers while still offering modern styling and advanced electric technology.

The Concept Three: A New Design Philosophy

The Hyundai Concept Three embraces a styling approach the company calls the “Art of Steel.” This design language builds on the aesthetics of the award-winning Ioniq 6 sedan while introducing sharper lines, bold proportions, and futuristic cues tailored for a compact hatchback format.

Key Design Elements:

• Elongated Roofline: Provides a sleek profile, enhancing aerodynamics while offering additional interior space.

• Ducktail Rear Wing: A sporty detail that adds a dynamic touch and emphasizes the hatchback’s futuristic character.

• Front Splitter: Signals a performance-oriented stance, even though the model targets affordability.

• Slim Wraparound Headlights: Gives the car a distinctive and modern front-end identity.

According to Simon Loasby, Senior Vice President and Head of Hyundai Design Centre, the project was an opportunity to “rethink the compact EV from the ground up,” ensuring it stands apart in both design and functionality.

Summary Table

Platform and Powertrain

The production version of the Ioniq 3 will be underpinned by Hyundai’s Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), the same architecture used for larger Ioniq models and other Hyundai Motor Group EVs. This modular base provides flexibility in terms of size, powertrains, and battery configurations.

Expected Powertrain and Battery Options:

• Single Motor Setup: Front-mounted motor producing 201 horsepower.

• Battery Options:

  • Standard 58.3 kWh battery pack.

  • Larger 81.4 kWh battery pack for extended range.

These options will allow customers to balance affordability with performance and driving range. Production of the Ioniq 3 is scheduled to begin in Q3 2026 for overseas markets, with European deliveries prioritized.

Market Positioning in Europe

Hyundai intends to position the Ioniq 3 as a zero-emission alternative to conventional compact hatchbacks such as the Hyundai i20 and Hyundai i30. With this strategy, the model is expected to compete directly against new-generation electric hatchbacks, including the Renault 5 E-Tech and the upcoming Nissan Micra EV.

This focus highlights Hyundai’s goal of capturing the growing European demand for small, affordable, and efficient EVs vehicles suitable for both city commuting and longer weekend trips.

Interior and Infotainment

While Hyundai has not yet revealed detailed interior images, early information suggests the cabin will receive significant upgrades. The Ioniq 3 is expected to introduce:

• New Infotainment Interface: A redesigned digital ecosystem with intuitive controls.

• Customizable Ambient Lighting: Personalized lighting themes that adapt based on driving modes.

• Sound Profiles: Options to adjust interior soundscapes to suit driver preferences, adding a sensory dimension to the electric driving experience.

This focus on personalization shows Hyundai’s ambition to differentiate the Ioniq 3 from budget-oriented rivals by offering premium features at an accessible price point.

Global and Local Production Plans

Hyundai plans to launch the Ioniq 3 in Europe first, leveraging strong EV demand and favorable government incentives. Production is expected to expand globally after the initial launch, with mass production starting in Q3 2026. This rollout will strengthen Hyundai’s EV presence across multiple segments, complementing the Ioniq 5 crossover and Ioniq 6 sedan.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the Hyundai Concept Three?

A. The Concept Three is Hyundai’s new electric hatchback concept, previewing the design and technology of the upcoming Hyundai Ioniq 3 EV.

2. When will the Hyundai Ioniq 3 launch?

A. The Concept Three debuts at the Munich Auto Show in September 2025, with mass production of the Ioniq 3 expected to start in Q3 2026.

3. What platform does the Ioniq 3 use?

A. It is built on Hyundai’s Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), which also underpins the Ioniq 5, Ioniq 6, and Kia EV models.

4. What are the expected battery and motor options?

A. The Ioniq 3 will feature a single 201 hp motor with two battery options: 58.3 kWh and 81.4 kWh.

5. Who are the main competitors of the Hyundai Ioniq 3?

A. Its primary rivals in Europe will be the Renault 5 E-Tech and the Nissan Micra EV.

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