The Concept Three previews a new compact electric hatchback that will enter production next year.
09 Sep 2025 | 1961 Views | By Akbar Merchant
The Hyundai Concept Three has made its debut at the Munich motor show, previewing a new compact electric hatchback that will enter production next year. The model is expected to launch most likely as the Hyundai Ioniq 3, though executives have hinted that Ioniq 2 or Ioniq 4 remain possible ...
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The Hyundai Concept Three has made its debut at the Munich motor show, previewing a new compact electric hatchback that will enter production next year. The model is expected to launch most likely as the Hyundai Ioniq 3, though executives have hinted that Ioniq 2 or Ioniq 4 remain possible names.
Set to be manufactured in Europe, the five-door hatchback is tipped to become Hyundai’s best-selling electric car in the region. Hyundai Design Centre boss Simon Loasby explained that while the show car is conceptual in many of its details, its proportions, shape, and surfacing are true to the production model, which had in fact been designed before the Concept Three itself.
At 4288mm long, the concept is similar in size to the Volkswagen Golf but takes a more unconventional approach with what Hyundai calls an “aero hatch” design. Its rakish body, sculpted rear hatch, and integrated spoiler optimise airflow for improved efficiency, in keeping with the Ioniq range’s focus on distinctive styling. Loasby said this design direction enables Hyundai to target specific customer groups and stand out in the highly competitive hatchback market.
The Hyundai Concept Three also introduces a new design philosophy known as “Art of Steel,” which highlights steel as a material and uses it to create more sculpted forms. To add a playful element, the car features hidden Easter eggs, including a repeating character called “Mr Pix.” While the concept’s extreme width of 1968mm and low height of 1465mm will be toned down for production, Loasby confirmed its core fundamentals will remain. Slim headlights with pixel graphics will carry over, ensuring continuity with other Ioniq models, though the gullwing doors will be replaced with conventional ones in the production car.
Inside, the Concept Three embraces a radical “Furnished Space” theme, with materials and surfaces styled as if in a living room. This approach reflects Hyundai’s aim to treat materials in a more natural and approachable way. The interior also debuts a new HMI interface with additional physical buttons positioned close to the driver to reduce distraction, along with a driver display placed above the steering wheel to keep key information closer to the eyeline. Loasby stressed that safety remained Hyundai’s top priority, saying the brand deliberately avoided relying solely on touchscreens.
Hyundai has yet to release detailed technical specifications, though the Concept Three is confirmed to be fully electric and is understood to share the 400V E-GMP platform with the Kia EV3. The production version is expected to use similar battery and drivetrain options and, like its sibling, will be manufactured in Europe.