Is Hyundai finally about to launch the smaller IONIQ 3 EV we’ve been waiting for? A mysterious new Hyundai ‘OE’ vehicle, which appears to be the IONIQ 5’s little sibling, has surfaced again. Here’s what we know about the new EV.
When will Hyundai launch the IONIQ 3?
Hyundai has been on a roll, launching new electric models in key global markets, including the US, Europe, China, and others.
After a new Hyundai EV model badged with the codename “OE” surfaced again, local reports suggest it could be the IONIQ 3. Hyundai has given previous electric models, such as the IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6, codenames, including “CE” and “NE.”
The most recent model to earn a codename was the three-row IONIQ 9 SUV, unveiled at the LA Auto Show last month. Hyundai’s larger electric SUV model code was “ME” before its official debut.
After more images of the new “OE” model surfaced online, Hyundai’s Chinese joint venture, Beijing Hyundai, appeared to confirm the new EV through a local regulation portal.
The screenshots from Autospy reveal the “OE1C” codename again, confirming that it will be an electric SUV. Hyundai’s new EV is set to launch in 2026. Another “EA1C” model is also listed.
According to TheKoreanCarBlog, local rumors suggest the new EV could finally be the IONIQ 3 or even 4. The mysterious new model is expected to ride on Hyundai’s E-GMP platform, which underpins its current IONIQ 5, 6, 9, and Kia’s electric car lineup.
Although little is known about it, the IONIQ 3 will be slightly smaller than the popular IONIQ 5. It will likely be closer to Kia’s new EV3.
The recent spy shots show IONIQ-like design elements, including the wheels, door handles, and several interior features.
Hyundai’s new EV is expected to be available in single and dual-motor powertrains with 62 or 84-kWh battery pack options. For comparison, the Kia EV3 offers up to 605 km (375 mi) WLTP range with the larger (81.4 kWh) battery. The smaller (58.3 kWh) battery provides around 436 km (271 mi) range on the WLTP cycle.
In Europe, Kia’s smaller EV3 starts at around 36,000 euros ($38,300). The low-cost EV can be bought in Korea for under $30,000 with incentives.
It will be interesting to see how the IONIQ 3 compares to Hyundai’s new Casper Electric. The Casper Electric, known as the Inster EV in Europe, starts at just around $20,000 (27.4 million won) in Korea.
Hyundai’s low-cost EV offers up to 315 km (195 miles) range in Korea and 355 km (221 miles) on the WLTP cycle. Unlike the IONIQ series, the Casper Electric is based on Hyundai’s smaller H2 platform.
The new Hyundai electric SUV will first launch in China in early 2026. For those in the US, Europe, and other overseas markets, we will have to wait to find out if it will launch in overseas markets. Stay tuned for more.
Source: TheKoreanCarBlog, Autospy
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