In a series of cryptic videos, Hyundai hinted that another big reveal is just days away. The teaser previews what’s expected to be a smaller, more affordable sibling to the IONIQ 5.
When will the new Hyundai IONIQ 3 EV debut?
What is Hyundai up to now? After a big year in 2025, launching its first three-row electric SUV, the IONIQ 9, and the high-performance IONIQ 6 N, the South Korean auto giant is targeting a new segment this year.
Hyundai gave us a look at what’s to come after introducing the Concept Three at the Munich Motor Show in September, a preview of the upcoming IONIQ 3.
The IONIQ 3 is Hyundai’s first compact electric vehicle concept under the IONIQ brand, slated to sit between the Kona Electric and Inster EV in terms of size and pricing.
With an official debut expected at the Brussels Motor Show, which starts on January 9, 2026, Hyundai Europe dropped a few videos on social media on Wednesday, teasing what appears to be the production version of the IONIQ 3.
So far, three videos have been posted, each ending with a new letter. The first ended with “I”, the second “O”, and the third “N”, spelling out “ION.”
Since Hyundai posted similar teaser videos leading up to the debut of the IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6 EV models, all signs point to the IONIQ 3.
In the latest video, Hyundai posted the caption “Strength can be subtle, delicate. Inspired by nature. Refined into steel. This is N. See the Evolution. January 9th.”
Hyundai previously said the Concept Three’s design theme, “Art of Steel,” is inspired by its advanced steel technology.
The IONIQ 3 is bringing a radical new hot hatch design to the IONIQ family, which Hyundai said is “a new typology that reimagines the compact EV silhouette.”
Measuring 4,287 mm long, 1,940 mm wide, and 1,428 mm tall, with a wheelbase of 2,722 mm, Hyundai’s compact EV is about the size of the Kia EV3 or Volkswagen ID.3
We will learn more on January 9, but the compact EV is expected to ride on the same E-GMP platform with similar battery pack options as the Kia EV3. The EV3 is available in Europe with 58.3 kWh and 81.4 kWh battery packs, offering WLTP ranges of 260 miles and 365 miles, respectively.
Since the Kona Electric starts at about £35,000 ($47,000), IONIQ 3 prices are expected to start closer to £25,000 ($33,700).
The IONIQ 3 will be a key part of Hyundai’s growth plans in Europe as demand for smaller, more affordable EVs continues rising.
For those in the US, Hyundai is not expected to bring the IONIQ 3 to the states, given the recent policy changes and the fact that compact cars just don’t sell like trucks and SUVs.
If you’re looking for an affordable EV, the IONIQ 5 is still a great option starting at under $200 a month. The IONIQ 5 offers an EPA-estimated range of up to 318 miles, fast charging in under 20 minutes, and an NACS port for recharging at Tesla Superchargers. You can use this link to find available Hyundai IONIQ 5 models near you or to book a test drive.
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