Hyundai Concept Three to debut at Munich Motor show

Hyundai has previewed the design of its all-new electric hatchback concept, which will make its global debut at next week’s Munich motor show. The car has been officially christened the Concept Three, a name that strongly hints the eventual production model will be called the Ioniq 3, positioned as Hyundai’s counterpart to the Kia EV3 – much like how the Ioniq 9 relates to the Kia EV9.

The design sketch suggests the hatchback will take inspiration from the sleek Ioniq 6 sedan rather than the retro-themed Ioniq 5 or the imposing Ioniq 9 SUV. In profile, it resembles a race-bred two-door sports coupé, complete with standout styling cues such as a prominent ducktail rear wing and diffuser, an aggressive front splitter, narrow wraparound headlights, muscular haunches, and a sharply raked visor-like glasshouse designed for maximum aerodynamic efficiency.

The Concept Three also introduces the brand’s new ‘Art of Steel’ design language. According to Hyundai, this philosophy draws inspiration from the way steel bends and flows, resulting in sculpted surfaces, crisp intersections, and distinctive character lines that emphasise both movement and precision.

Hyundai has confirmed that the production version of the Ioniq 3 will go on sale overseas in the third quarter of 2026, with customer deliveries potentially beginning as early as July that year.  

The car will sit on the modular E-GMP platform, already underpinning a host of Hyundai Motor Group EVs, including those from Kia and Genesis luxury brand.  As such, it is expected to share similarities with the Kia EV3, which is offered with either a 58.3kWh or 81.4kWh battery. Power is provided by a single front-mounted motor producing 201hp.

Inside, the Ioniq 3 promises a “step change” in everyday usability. A new infotainment system will take centre stage, with the ability to adjust elements such as ambient lighting and interior acoustics according to the selected driving mode or personalised style, further enhancing the driving experience.

Expect more details on the new Hyundai Ioniq 3 to be revealed at its world premiere in the coming days.