New Delhi: Hyundai is preparing to introduce a new electric car called the Ioniq 3 in Europe in April 2026. The Ioniq 3 will be a compact electric vehicle and will be positioned below the larger Ioniq 5 in Hyundai’s global line-up. Test versions of the car, covered in camouflage, have already been seen during winter trials, which shows that the official launch is getting closer.
Hyundai Motor Europe’s CEO, Xavier Martinet, told Autocar UK that the upcoming Ioniq 3 and the existing i20 will be built under the same roof. “We have the flexibility to ramp one (model’s production) up and ramp one (model’s production) down, depending on what the market is asking for,” Martinet clarified. He also said the new Ioniq 3 will debut in April 2026 at Italy’s Milan Design Week.
Hyundai Ioniq 3: Expected body and features
Hyundai Ioniq concept three image for representation purpose.
In terms of size, the Ioniq 3 is expected to be similar to Hyundai’s i20 hatchback that runs on petrol. Hyundai gave an early idea of this car through the Concept Three, which was shown at the 2025 Munich Motor Show. The spy images of the test cars suggest that the design may take some inspiration from modern Genesis models, especially in the front styling and overall look. The vehicle appears to have a compact crossover-like shape with a slightly raised stance.
Although Hyundai has not officially confirmed the full feature list, the Ioniq 3 is likely to get many modern comforts. Reports suggest it could include wireless smartphone connectivity, a wireless charging pad, automatic climate control and advanced safety systems. The safety package is expected to cover ADAS functions along with multiple airbags and other driver-assist technologies.
Hyundai Ioniq 3: Expected powertrain
Under the skin, the Ioniq 3 is expected to use the 400-volt E-GMP electric platform, the same base that will also be used for the upcoming Kia EV4. With this architecture, the car could offer a driving range of around 628km on a single charge, though Hyundai has not yet confirmed the exact battery options. Details about motor choices and performance figures are also still awaited.
Production of the new electric car is planned to begin in the third quarter of 2026 at Hyundai’s manufacturing plant in Izmit, Turkey.