Update: The entire article has been updated.
After introducing larger, higher-margin models like the Ioniq 6, Ioniq 5, and Ioniq 9, Hyundai is turning its attention to smaller, more accessible EVs. The next entry is expected as the Hyundai Ioniq 3, previewed by the Concept Three at IAA Mobility 2025 in Munich before a production launch expected around mid-2026.
Target Markets
Europe will be the Ioniq 3’s primary market, where compact EVs are in high demand due to stricter emission regulations and urban-friendly proportions. The model is also expected to roll out in Australia, New Zealand, and select Southeast Asian countries, catering to buyers looking for an affordable and stylish second car.
Design
The Concept Three debuts a new “Aero Hatch” design typology, defined by fluid bodywork inspired by the way steel bends and flows. Taking on the brand’s “Art of Steel” philosophy, it has a bold side profile, a compact stance, and distinctive character lines.
Teaser images highlight details such as a ducktail spoiler, pixel-inspired front graphics, a sharply raked windshield, extended wheel arches, and a light bar running the width of the hood. The show car should preview most of the production model’s proportions and confirm its branding.
Estimated at about 157 inches (4,000 mm) long, it fits the subcompact class. While it should share its underpinnings with the Kia EV3, the Ioniq 3 is aimed at a different audience.
Source: YouTube/CarSpyMedia
Prototype sightings point to a sportier character than its sibling, with a lower hood, split headlamps, a more aerodynamic greenhouse, and a high rear deck. The design prioritizes style over maximum cargo space, targeting younger and first-time EV buyers who are in the marketplace for a compact car with a different personality.
Interior
The production-spec Ioniq 3 is expected to come well-equipped. Wireless charging, USB-C ports, smart key with motion sensing, heated front seats and a heated steering wheel should be offered in higher variants. We also expect ambient lighting with multiple color selections and an optional panoramic roof. The infotainment setup should support wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and could run Pleos Connect.
On the safety front, expected equipment includes Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind-Spot View Monitor, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, and seven airbags, keeping the Ioniq 3 consistent with Hyundai’s strong safety record.
Class-leading wheelbase
While it may not have the luxury factor, the Ioniq 3 will feature a long wheelbase that offers more space than its combustion-engined counterpart and other comparable EVs. Dedicated EV platforms allow a wheelbase longer than similar-sized gas models. Hyundai design boss SangYup Lee has said all Ioniq EV models will have a best-in-class wheelbase, as per a report from Car and Driver.
Lee said that the space revolution is the key for electric vehicles and utilizing the freed-up space opens up many new possibilities for designers. If not a movable island, the Ioniq 3 is expected to feature a large storage console between the seats.
Specifications
The Ioniq 3 is expected to follow the same two-battery strategy as the Kia EV3. The standard-range version should use a 58 kWh battery pack and deliver up to 270 miles of range on the WLTP combined cycle. A long-range version with an 81 kWh pack could stretch that figure to about 375 miles (WLTP).
Both variants are likely to feature a single front-mounted motor producing 201 hp and 283 Nm of torque. Performance should include 0–62 mph in about 7.5 seconds and a top speed of 105 mph. Vehicle-to-load (V2L) bi-directional charging is expected to be standard, enabling the car to power camping equipment, power tools, or small household appliances.
Price & Release Date
Pricing for the Hyundai Ioniq 3 in the UK is expected to start at around GBP 27,000 (USD ~36,118), positioning it slightly above its Kia sibling but below the Kona Electric. Sales are expected to commence in mid-2026 (July–September window) in Europe, as per Autocar UK.
While Hyundai hasn’t confirmed a U.S. launch, the Ioniq 3 would compete against the next generation of entry-level EVs from Chevrolet, Nissan, Ford, and Jeep if it does make it stateside.
Likely to be assembled in HMGICS
The Hyundai Motor Group Innovation Center in Singapore (HMGICS) currently rolls out the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6. It is worth noting that this facility is just assembling the EV from completely knocked-down kits (CKDs), not conducting its full-scale production. Back on October 13, 2020, local publication Straits Times had reported that it will build even the yet-to-be-announced Ioniq 3.
The Singaporean plant could become Hyundai’s production site for domestic sales and regional exports. Given its focus on European cities, the main production center of the Ioniq 3 should be at one of Hyundai Motor Group’s plants in Europe. We’ll learn more on September 9.
Hyundai Ioniq 3 FAQs
What is the Hyundai Ioniq 3’s release date?
The Ioniq 3 is expected to arrive in Europe in Q3 2026.
What will be the Hyundai Ioniq 3 price?
In the UK, we expect the Ioniq 3 to be priced well under GBP 30,000, undercutting the Kona EV.
What are the future rivals of the Hyundai Ioniq 3?
Featured Image Source: Hyundai
International Automotive News Editor since 2014, covering global motor shows, industry events, and test-driving various vehicles, with a focus on hybrid and electric cars in recent years.
