Hyundai Motor Company has taken the spotlight at the IAA Mobility 2025 in Munich by unveiling its latest innovation, the Concept Three. This striking electric hatchback offers a glimpse into Hyundai’s vision for the future of mobility and is expected to evolve into the Ioniq 3 when production begins in 2026. Positioned below the Creta EV in size, the new concept has been designed to meet the rising demand for compact electric vehicles in Europe.
Compact Dimensions with Bold Design
The Concept Three sits firmly in the compact hatchback segment with a length of 4,287 mm, width of 1,940 mm, and height of 1,428 mm. Its wheelbase measures 2,722 mm, making it smaller than the Creta EV currently on sale in India. Despite its compact footprint, the design leaves a lasting impression thanks to Hyundai’s “Art of Steel” styling philosophy.
The exterior features a Tungsten Gray finish, complemented by a bright Moonbeam Yellow interior. A sculpted roofline and vertical tailgate give the car a distinct aero hatch profile, while gradient-style pixel lighting at both front and rear adds a futuristic identity. These expressive Parametric Pixel lights highlight Hyundai’s ongoing effort to redefine the visual language of its electric vehicles.
While the concept has dramatic design touches such as gullwing-style rear doors, Hyundai has already clarified that the production Ioniq 3 will adopt a more conventional form. The bold concept styling, however, sets the tone for a new era of compact EV design.
A Cabin Unlike Any Hyundai Before
Step inside the Concept Three and you are greeted with an interior that feels entirely different from the brand’s existing models. Instead of a large central touchscreen dominating the dashboard, Hyundai has taken a refreshing approach with a modular setup. Drivers can mount their own devices and customize the cabin experience, a philosophy Hyundai calls “Bring Your Own Lifestyle” or BYOL.
This design allows each user to personalize the space according to their needs. The layout is calming and intuitive, making the cabin feel more like a lounge than a traditional car interior. Hyundai has also used sustainable materials, including ocean waste textiles and lightweight aluminum foam, showing its commitment to eco-friendly manufacturing.
Adding a playful element to the space is Mr. Pix, an interactive digital feature that blends storytelling with design. With these innovations, Hyundai signals a clear break from conventional in-car entertainment systems, focusing instead on personalization and sustainability.
Expected Specifications and Range
Although Hyundai has not revealed full technical details of the Concept Three, reports suggest the production Ioniq 3 will share its platform with Kia’s EV4. This would mean a 400-volt architecture, unlike the 800-volt systems found in Hyundai’s larger EVs.
Buyers can expect single- and dual-motor variants, along with a choice between two battery packs. The higher-spec version is likely to deliver a driving range of up to 390 miles, or 628 kilometers, on a single charge. If these numbers translate to the final model, the Ioniq 3 will be one of the most practical and efficient compact EVs in its class.
Designed for Europe, But Global Appeal
The Concept Three is aimed squarely at the European market, where compact cars dominate urban streets and stricter sustainability regulations drive the shift to electric vehicles. By offering a smaller, more affordable EV, Hyundai hopes to capture a growing audience of city dwellers who want efficiency without compromising on design.
The model will also serve as a crucial addition to Hyundai’s expanding Ioniq lineup, which currently focuses on midsize and larger electric vehicles. It complements Hyundai’s strategy of offering EVs for different needs and lifestyles.
Speaking at the launch, Xavier Martinet, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Europe, said the return to IAA Mobility after four years was significant for the company. He described the Concept Three as a milestone vehicle, combining compact dimensions with the Art of Steel design philosophy. According to him, the car reflects Hyundai’s vision of offering mobility solutions that are practical, accessible, and emotionally engaging.
Will India Get the Ioniq 3?
For Indian buyers, the big question is whether Hyundai will bring the Ioniq 3 to local showrooms. The Creta EV has already made its debut, but Hyundai has not yet confirmed if the compact Ioniq 3 will follow. Given the growing demand for smaller, more affordable EVs in India, the possibility cannot be ruled out.
Final Verdict
The Hyundai Concept Three is more than a design showcase. It represents the company’s commitment to making electric mobility accessible, sustainable, and stylish. By blending futuristic design, innovative interiors, and impressive range expectations, Hyundai has set the stage for the Ioniq 3 to become a serious player in the compact EV market.
With production scheduled for 2026, the Ioniq 3 could emerge as a global favorite for city drivers who want efficiency without giving up personality. The Concept Three may be a preview, but it already feels like the start of something significant in Hyundai’s electric journey.
