Hyundai’s battery-electric lineup has expanded once again with the Ioniq 3. This funky compact hatchback disguised as a small SUV rides on Hyundai Motor Group’s E-GMP platform. This new “aero hatch” design gives the Hyundai Ioniq 3 a cool, futuristic look. It borrows many details from the Concept Three revealed last year. This latest addition to the EV lineup looks a little less wild than the show car, but it still has the same youthful energy. The rear end features a split window and an integrated spoiler. On the other hand, the front end has the same split headlight design as the refreshed Ioniq 6.
The Ioniq 3’s design doesn’t just look cool. It’s also functional. Thanks to its sleek, aerodynamic shape, the Ioniq 3 has a drag coefficient of 0.263, improving its efficiency. Wheel options range from 16 to 19 inches, but remember that the larger options typically lower the driving range rating. Meanwhile, the N Line variant adds plenty of sporty details to give the car a more athletic look.
On the other hand, the interior has gone all-in on minimalism. The Ioniq 3 launches with the new Pleos Connect infotainment system, which uses Android Automotive OS. A 12.9-inch display comes standard, while a larger 14.6-inch unit is available. It also features a digital gauge cluster similar to what you’ll find in cars like the Toyota C-HR but with a thin and wide layout. Thankfully, it appears that some physical controls, including knobs, remain. The SmartSense suite of active driver assistance technologies come standard on the Ioniq 3. These includes features like Highway Driving Assist 2, Remote Smart Parking Assist, and the Surround View Monitor.
Hyundai Ioniq 3: Smart and Efficient
As for the powertrain, the Ioniq 3 has two battery options: a 42 kWh battery for the standard range model or a 61 kWh pack on long range variants. Since this uses a 400-volt electrical system, DC charging from 10 to 80 percent under ideal conditions takes around 30 minutes. The Ioniq 3 also has V2X capability.
Meanwhile the front-mounted electric motor has 133 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque on the standard range models. Long range variants have the same torque output, but horsepower increases to 145. On the WLTP cycle, the Ioniq 3 standard range has a 344-km driving range rating. That’s about 213 miles. The long range models check in at 496 km or about 308 miles.
Unfortunately, the Ioniq 3 isn’t headed to the U.S. anytime soon. Europe remains its primary market, and if you want something similar, Kia has the EV3, which arrives at the end of 2026.
Source: Hyundai
