Hyundai Concept Three previews smallest Ioniq EV yet 

The smallest Hyundai EV to wear the Ioniq badge has been unveiled at the Munich motor show. It’s dubbed the Concept Three and the production version is a chance for Australian sale.  

Hyundai wasn’t saying too much about the powertrain and performance of the Concept Three ahead of its roll-out in Munich, beyond confirming its compact 4287mm length, 1940mm width, 1428mm height and 2722mm wheelbase.

If the production Hyundai Ioniq 3 follows the form of the concept – and there’s every indication it will – this will be a sporty hatch with more orthodox styling compared to the blocky Ioniq 5 SUV and wind-cheating Ioniq 6 sedan. 

Of course, a production version will add rear doors. 

Primarily aimed at Europe, the concept’s design language is dubbed ‘Art of Steel’ and is meant to showcase the Korean industrial giant’s abilities in shaping metal. 

It is also a preview of the next evolution of Hyundai exterior design. Other exterior features include front and rear parametric pixel lighting – an Ioniq signature – an anodized-effect Tungsten Grey paintjob and lemon-tinted glass and wheels. 

The interior includes ‘bring your own lifestyle’ widgets to tailor the passenger experience, an interactive character called Mr Pix and the use of sustainable materials such as ocean waste for trims.

The production version will nab a new-gen infotainment system. 

In terms of tech, expect the Ioniq 3 to be based on the same 400V version of the E-GMP architecture and be offered with the same 58.3kWh and 81.4kWh battery pack options, along with a 150kW/283Nm front-mounted e-motor, as per the Kia EV3. 

The smaller pack delivers a 436km range and the bigger pack as much as 604km. 

Hopefully the technical alliance means that like the EV3, the Ioniq 3 will add a dual-motor version before too long. 

The dual-motor EV3 is due to be unveiled in 2026, with a hot GT flagship possible. Ioniq 3 N? Don’t rule it out. 

If it makes it to Australia the Ioniq 3 will slot into the line-up between the Inster and Kona Electric EVs, suggesting a circa-$50,000 price. 

On size, it would compete against the EV3 and the Chinese options like the Chery E5, MG S5, the BYD Atto 3, the Geely EX5. 

Regarding Ioniq 3’s local prospects, Hyundai Australia chief Don Romano recently told carsales there’s a chance it could arrive Down Under.

“It’s a potential opportunity, but I don’t have enough details to get to it. So, at this point, I’m glad we’re showing it. I’m glad we’re producing it,” said Romano. 

“Now I just need to get the details and find out: will it fit into our overall product plan and create enough demand to where it becomes a viable option for us? My initial thought is absolutely. Yep. I don’t have enough details to be definitive on it.” 

Join the conversation at our Facebook page
Or email us at editor@carsales.com.au