Hyundai Concept Three Previews Ioniq 3 at Munich Motor Show

Hyundai unveiled the Concept Three at this year’s Munich motor show, offering a preview of what’s almost certainly the production version of the Hyundai Ioniq 3 compact hatchback.

The Ioniq 3 will carry over the Concept Three’s overall shape when it enters production in 2026. The concept measures roughly the same size as a Volkswagen Golf.

Hyundai calls the design an ‘Aero Hatch’ – a rakish body with a sculpted rear hatch similar to the hybrid Honda CR-Z from 2011 to 2016.

The ducktail spoiler aims to improve aerodynamics and efficiency. It appears inspired by the 641bhp Ioniq 6 N hyper saloon.

Production Reality vs Concept Fantasy

The production Ioniq 3 won’t feature the yellow glass panels or gullwing doors of the Concept Three. However, the pixel graphics on the front and rear light bars will remain – they’re a signature of the all-electric Ioniq lineup.

The Concept Three introduces Hyundai’s new design language called ‘Art of Steel’. The exterior showcases how steel can flow and bend in automotive applications.

Inside, the ‘Furnished Space’ concept continues the updated aesthetics.

According to Hyundai Design Centre boss Simon Loasby, ‘Furnished Space’ looks to shape and finish materials “in a more natural way” as if they were in a living room.

Tech and Safety Focus

The Concept Three features an updated version of Hyundai’s HMI multimedia interface. It includes more physical buttons than current systems to help drivers stay focused on the road rather than using touchscreens.

To “keep safety at the top of the pyramid,” the company explained.

Hidden throughout the concept are Easter eggs featuring a repeating icon called ‘Mr Pix’. This character approach mirrors what Hyundai did with its Insteroid – the wild, race-derived version of the Inster city car that features its own avatars resembling elements from Mario Kart and Pac-Man.

The pixelated light bars remain a defining feature of the Ioniq family design.