Cars used to be primarily presented at specialized car showrooms, which has almost disappeared. Today, various other events are used many times, regardless of whether they are technological conferences or some other attractive events. So this week in Italy, more precisely in the European capital of fashion, Design Week is taking place, and Hyundai used it to present its new model. A new fully electric compact hatchback from the Ioniq family is arriving, bearing the designation 3 – Ioniq 3. The Korean manufacturer states that the latest model embodies the evolution of the brand’s visual identity through the Art of Steel philosophy, combining it with a spacious interior and intuitive technology fully adapted to the daily needs of modern users.
Hyundai further highlights a heritage dating back to 1974 and the Giorgetto Giugiaro-designed Pony Coupé, highlighting how design has continuously shaped the brand’s approach to modern electric mobility. The Ioniq 3 is the first model to introduce the Art of Steel design language inspired by the raw tension and purity of the steel production process. The surfaces of the model are reduced to a few thoughtful volumes that create a strong and precise visual impression, reflecting the natural behavior of sheet steel. Characteristic Pixel light elements further reinforce the Ioniq identity, complete with four central points that refer to the letter H in Morse code.
Of course, a lot of attention has been paid to aerodynamic efficiency, which maximizes the air flow and emphasizes the sporty character. Despite the compact exterior dimensions, a spacious and flexible interior is provided following the Furnished Space approach, in which elements are arranged like furniture to create a warm and intuitive atmosphere.
The Hyundai Ioniq 3 was created on the Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) platform of the Hyundai Motor Group with an electrical architecture of 400 volts. It is a platform with a wheelbase of as much as 268 centimeters, while the total length of the vehicle is 415.5 cm if we are talking about the initial edition, or 1.5 cm more if we are talking about the N Line version. With a flat floor, there is plenty of legroom, while the 441-liter trunk with an integrated Megabox under the floor increases practicality. The basic volume of the trunk is 322 liters, while the volume of the Megabox is 119 liters.
Depending on the specification, Relaxation seats with heating and ventilation functions and textile materials inspired by Italian furniture design from the 1970s, including recycled and bio-materials, are available. The Bose Premium Sound system, dual-zone automatic air conditioning and ambient LED lighting complete the refined environment.
Customers will be offered two battery options to choose from. The entry is the Standard Range version with a projected WLTP range of over 335 km with a 42.2 kWh battery, while the Long Range has a range of more than 490 km and a 61 kWh battery. In addition to fast DC charging (10 – 80% in approximately 29 min), the vehicle also offers AC charging up to 22 kW and Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality. The Standard Range version uses a 107.8 kW / 147 hp electric motor for propulsion and has acceleration from a standstill to 100 km/h in 9 seconds. In the Long Range version, the electric motor is 99.5 kW / 135 HP, and it is slightly slower, so it takes 9.6 seconds to reach a speed of 100 km/h. Both models have a maximum speed limited to 170 km/h.
The Pleos Connect infotainment system built on Android Automotive OS (AAOS) makes its debut in the interior. The 12.9-inch or 14.6-inch screens provide clear and intuitive access to key vehicle functions, navigation and connectivity. The technological package is rounded off by Hyundai Digital Key 2, Plug & Charge and the latest SmartSense ADAS systems such as Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA2) and Remote Smart Parking Assist (RSPA). Projection LED headlights with the intelligent IFS system and seven standard airbags also take care of safety. Depending on the market, the Hyundai Digital Key 2 will also be available for keyless vehicle entry via smartphone or smartwatch.
Hyundai has prepared eight exterior colors. They are Atlas White Solid, Phantom Black Pearl, Lumen Gray Pearl, Aurora Gray Pearl, Vibrant Blue Pearl, Ice Blue Pearl, Fierce Red Solid and Fierce Red Matte. Furthermore, depending on the equipment level, different interiors are also prepared. Black, Beige / Gray, Blue / Gray, Black + red accents (N Line) are available.
