Hyundai has released teaser images of its Ioniq Concept Three compact EV ahead of its debut at this month’s Munich motor show.
The Concept Three is expected to compete directly with the VW ID.3 and Cupra Born in the compact hatchback segment. The preview images showcase Hyundai’s ‘Art of Steel’ design language, which debuted on the company’s Initium FCEV concept last year.
According to Hyundai, the ‘Art of Steel’ aesthetic draws inspiration from steel’s ability to flow and bend. The Concept Three features what the automaker calls an ‘Aero Hatch’ design approach.
Design Details Point to Performance Focus
The teaser images reveal a low-mounted front splitter and flared wheel arches. The concept also features a sloping roofline and a ducktail spoiler similar to the one on the Hyundai Ioniq 6 N super saloon.
These performance-oriented design elements suggest Hyundai plans to develop an N version of the production Ioniq 3.
A hot N variant would compete with vehicles like the Volkswagen ID.3 GTX when it arrives after the standard model’s launch in early 2026.
“Designing the Concept Three was an opportunity for us to rethink the compact EV from the ground up,” said Simon Loasby, Hyundai Design Center head and senior vice president. “We defined the ‘Aero Hatch’ typology to craft a silhouette that captures a sense of flow and becomes a beautifully proportioned sculpture.”
Munich Motor Show Return
The Concept Three’s debut marks Hyundai’s return to the Munich motor show after a four-year absence.
The company will reveal additional details about the vehicle at a press conference on September 9. The motor show runs through September 14.
Hyundai describes the concept as a car that “will bring a smile to your face.”
The production Ioniq 3 will slot between Hyundai’s Inster and Kona EVs in the company’s lineup. It’s expected to use front-wheel drive and the same E-GMP platform found across multiple Hyundai and Kia models.
Battery options will likely include a 58.4kWh pack delivering around 260 miles of range or an 81.4kWh unit providing 350-plus miles between charges.
