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Hyundai unveils Concept Three ahead of Munich
Hyundai has released a teaser sketch for a dramatic electric hatchback concept, the Concept Three, which will make its debut at next week’s Munich motor show. The new concept strongly hints that the forthcoming production model will carry the Ioniq 3 name and share close mechanical ties with the Kia EV3, much as the Ioniq 9 aligns with the EV9.
Design language — 'Art of Steel' applied to a hot-hatch silhouette
Exterior styling
The sketch presents a low-slung, race-inspired two-door profile that leans more toward the sleek Ioniq 6 saloon than the retro-futuristic Ioniq 5 crossover or the blocky Ioniq 9 SUV. Distinctive elements include a chunky ducktail rear wing and diffuser, a pronounced front splitter, slim wraparound lighting, muscular rear haunches and a compact, heavily raked, visor-like glasshouse — details that point to a focus on aerodynamic efficiency and sporty presence.
'Art of Steel' details
Hyundai says the Concept Three showcases its new 'Art of Steel' aesthetic: sculpted metal surfaces, crisp intersections and strong character lines intended to convey motion and precision. The result is an athletic interpretation of a modern electric hot hatch.
Platform, battery and likely specifications
The Ioniq 3 production model will sit on Hyundai Motor Group’s scalable E-GMP electric platform, the same base used across Hyundai, Kia and Genesis EVs. That suggests mechanical parity with the Kia EV3, which is offered with either a 58.3 kWh or an 81.4 kWh battery pack delivering estimated WLTP ranges of roughly 267 or 372 miles respectively.
Current EV3 powertrains use a single front-mounted electric motor producing about 201 bhp and 209 lb ft of torque. While the Concept Three’s show car styling leans toward a hot-hatch character, Hyundai has not yet confirmed exact powertrain figures or whether performance variants — including dual-motor options — will join the line-up.
Interior and technology
Hyundai describes the Concept Three as a "step change" in cabin usability. The concept reportedly introduces an updated infotainment system that can adapt ambient lighting and cabin soundscapes according to driving modes or selected cabin styles — a blend of comfort, personalization and driver-focused functions aimed at enhancing the daily driving experience.
Market positioning and comparisons
Hyundai positions the Ioniq 3 as a compact electric hatchback that will directly challenge rivals such as the Cupra Born and similarly sized EV offerings from European and Asian manufacturers. With E-GMP underpinnings and battery options mirroring the Kia EV3, the Ioniq 3 aims to combine practical electric range, contemporary design and accessible performance.
When will it arrive?
Hyundai has confirmed the Ioniq 3 will go on sale in Q3 2026, meaning deliveries could begin from around July 2026. Enthusiasts should watch for the Munich show reveal to learn more about final specifications, trims and potential high-performance variants.
Keywords integrated: Ioniq 3, Concept Three, electric hatchback, hot hatch, E-GMP platform, Kia EV3, battery range, Hyundai Art of Steel, Cupra Born.
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