Hyundai Ioniq 3 Spotted Testing Ahead of Its European Launch in 2026

Hyundai is preparing to expand its electric lineup with the all-new Ioniq 3, a compact EV positioned below the successful Ioniq 5. First introduced as Concept Three at the Munich Motor Show, the Ioniq 3 takes Hyundai’s design language in a new direction, blending futuristic aesthetics with practical proportions for European urban drivers.

Recent prototypes spotted in South Korea and Europe — many with almost no camouflage — reveal that the upcoming production model remains remarkably faithful to the original concept.

A New Compact EV Built Around Hyundai’s “Art of Steel” Philosophy

The Ioniq 3 introduces a bold new visual identity. Hyundai’s “Art of Steel” design theme emphasizes structural purity and advanced steel manufacturing techniques. This approach shapes a striking Aero Hatch profile, giving the Ioniq 3 a sporty, hot-hatch-inspired silhouette capped with a distinctive ducktail spoiler.

Despite the fresh styling direction, Hyundai retains the brand’s signature Parametric Pixel front and rear lighting — a clear link to the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6.

Built for Europe, Manufactured in Turkey Starting in 2026

Hyundai confirms that the Ioniq 3 will play a key role in the next phase of its global electrification roadmap.
Production begins in early 2026 at the company’s facility in Turkey, with customer deliveries scheduled to follow shortly after.

The Ioniq 3 is sized specifically for Europe’s thriving compact EV segment:

• Length: ≈4.28 m

• Width: ≈1.94 m

• Height: ≈1.40 m

• Wheelbase: 2.72 m

These proportions make it a direct competitor to the Kia EV3 and Volkswagen ID.3, while offering surprisingly generous interior space for its footprint.

Expected Batteries, Range, and Technical Specifications

Although Hyundai has not officially revealed powertrain details, the Ioniq 3 is expected to share most components with the Kia EV3.

Likely battery options include:

• 58.3 kWh — standard pack

• 81.4 kWh — long-range pack

With the larger battery, the Ioniq 3 should be capable of up to ≈587 km WLTP, an impressive figure for a compact EV designed primarily for city and suburban driving.

Hyundai aims to position the Ioniq 3 as an affordable entry-level electric vehicle.
Given the Kona Electric starts around €41,000, the Ioniq 3 will likely slot closer to:

• ≈€29,300 base price

This pricing strategy will place Hyundai in a strong position against Europe’s aggressively expanding small-EV market.

A Europe-Focused EV — No Plans for North America

Hyundai has confirmed that the Ioniq 3 will not be heading to the United States or Canada. Instead, the company is concentrating on satisfying the fast-growing demand for compact, efficient EVs across Europe and other global regions where small electric cars dominate urban markets.

The Hyundai Ioniq 3 arrives as a bold new compact EV featuring the Aero Hatch design, Parametric Pixel lighting, and a silhouette inspired by Hyundai’s “Art of Steel” philosophy. Slated for 2026 production in Turkey, the Ioniq 3 targets the European market with expected battery options up to 81.4 kWh and a potential 587 km WLTP range. Positioned around €29,300, it will compete directly with the Kia EV3 and Volkswagen ID.3, but will not launch in North America.