It is great to know that Hyundai is preparing to launch its next electric vehicle, the Hyundai IONIQ 3, in less than a month at the Munich Motor Show in early September. The coming model of electric car is positioned as one of the more affordable yet advanced options compared to the Kona Electric. It is expected that the IONIQ 3 will strengthen brand’s foothold in the growing EV market.
When will Hyundai launch the IONIQ 3?
It is revealed that The IONIQ 3 will be officially debuted at the Munich Motor Show in September 2025. However, Hyundai Europe’s CEO, Xavier Martinet claims that the brand’s IONIQ series is now the number two EV brand after Tesla. According to him, this launch will help expand Hyundai’s EV coverage. Alongside the Hyundai Inster EV, the IONIQ 3 will serve as an accessible entry point into the brand’s electrified lineup.
Where does the IONIQ 3 fit in Hyundai’s EV lineup?
This Electric car will sit between the Inster EV and Kona Electric in terms of size and pricing. According to TopGear it will be slightly smaller than the Kona Electric but come with more advanced technology features. While the Kona Electric in the UK starts at £34,995 ($47,000), the IONIQ 3 is expected to launch at a similar or slightly lower price point, making it one of Hyundai’s most affordable EVs in Europe.
EV Battery and Range Options
To make it competitive yet affordable it is expected that the automakers offer the IONIQ 3 with two battery pack choices:
- 58.3 kWh for around 260 miles WLTP range
- 81.4 kWh for about 365 miles WLTP range
Instead of Hyundai’s high-performance 800V electrical system used in the IONIQ 5, 6, and 9, the IONIQ 3 will feature a more cost-efficient 400V system, helping keep prices competitive.
Interior and Technology
Inside, the IONIQ 3 will feature with brand’s latest technology that includes the new Pleos operating system that delivers a smartphone-like interface for a smoother user experience. Also it will come with a minimalist yet practical cabin, following Hyundai’s latest EV design language.
Where will the Hyundai IONIQ 3 be produced?
To control its price and make it more affordable, Hyundai will manufacture the IONIQ 3 in its Turkey plant. This local European production strategy will allow Hyundai to control price of the EV aggressively while competing with rivals like Kia EV3, which is already Europe’s best-selling retail EV in 2025.
Hyundai’s EV Strategy Going Forward
Hyundai is rapidly expanding its EV lineup with models like the Inster EV, IONIQ 3, and upcoming IONIQ 7, while also continuing to sell hybrids and plug-in hybrids. Interestingly, Hyundai is exploring EREVs (Extended-Range Electric Vehicles), which use small gas engines to recharge the battery on the go.
Martinet emphasized that Hyundai’s goal is not just to compete in the EV market but to maintain a strong presence across gas and hybrid vehicles also. He added, “People don’t go back to ICE after owning an EV,” highlighting the brand’s confidence in long-term EV adoption.
Will the IONIQ 3 Come to the US?
Unfortunately, the EV is not expected to launch in the United States due to new tariffs on imported EVs. However, Hyundai continues to offer competitive EVs in the US market, including the IONIQ 5, which recently saw price cuts and is now available for lease at just $179 per month—a rare deal for a $45,000 electric SUV.
The Hyundai IONIQ 3 could become a game-changer in the affordable EV segment, offering a mix of modern design, long driving range, and advanced tech at a competitive price. With the Kia EV3 already leading sales in Europe, all eyes are now on Hyundai to see if the IONIQ 3 can replicate that success and push Hyundai closer to Tesla in global EV rankings.
