Hyundai is poised to introduce a striking electric hatchback, tentatively named the Ioniq 3, designed to replace the aging i30 Hatch. This all-electric model draws heavily from the futuristic Three concept car and is slated for production in Türkiye in 2026. The arrival of the Ioniq 3 marks a significant shift for Hyundai, moving further into the electric vehicle market with a model designed to appeal to a modern aesthetic.
Design Inspired by Concept, Refined for Reality
The transition from concept to production car has involved some necessary compromises, with the Ioniq 3 adopting conventional wing mirrors and flush door handles. However, the vehicle retains the captivating essence of the Three concept. Key design elements remain, including a distinctive rounded wedge profile, echoing the rear-end shape of the Genesis GV60, along with slim lighting at the front and a sculpted fascia. The car will showcase Hyundai’s new “Art of Steel” design language, previously unveiled in the Initium concept, a precursor to the second-generation Nexo hydrogen fuel-cell electric vehicle (FCEV). Familiar brand design cues, such as Parametric Pixel square lighting, provide a link to Hyundai’s current identity.
The design leans into a more dynamic and sporty aesthetic than the outgoing i30 Hatch, notably drawing inspiration from the defunct Veloster.
Interior: Minimalist and Functional
The interior reflects a similar shift in design philosophy. While maintaining a slightly squared-off steering wheel and a two-tier centre console reminiscent of the concept, the production Ioniq 3 features more conventional – and practical – features. Notably, free-standing instrument cluster and infotainment screens replace the concept’s more experimental design choices. The slim instrument cluster is set far back, potentially reducing the need for a head-up display. The large, horizontally oriented infotainment screen is complemented by physical switches and knobs for climate control and seat adjustments, a thoughtful inclusion for ease of use. A bridge-type centre console offers a covered bin with an armrest, cupholders, and a storage shelf, maximizing functionality. The novel “Bring Your Own Lifestyle” modular widgets from the concept have been abandoned.
Platform and Dimensions: A Clear Successor
The Ioniq 3 is expected to utilize a 400V version of Hyundai’s E-GMP platform, shared with the Kia EV4. Its dimensions—4287mm long, 1940mm wide, and 1428mm tall, with a 2722mm wheelbase—closely match the MG 4 and are nearly identical to the current i30 Hatch. This suggests the Ioniq 3 is a direct replacement for the i30 Hatch, particularly in Europe.
The End of an Era for the i30
The discontinuation of the i30 Hatch, at least in Europe, signals a significant shift in Hyundai’s strategy. Production for the Australian market will cease in December, while the high-performance i30 N, sourced from Czechia, will continue for an unspecified period. The hot hatch is no longer sold in Europe and is limited to a handful of global markets. Notably, the Korean-built i30 Sedan, marketed elsewhere as the Elantra and Avante, remains unaffected due to its newer underpinnings.
Sister brand Kia has already launched a new small car—the K4—effectively replacing both the Cerato/Forte in some markets and the European-developed Ceed, which was closely related to the i30.
Hyundai Australia has confirmed the end of the i30 Hatch but hinted at a “new generation of accessible N products” arriving in 2027, suggesting the next i20 N could gain hybrid power. It remains unclear whether the production Ioniq 3 will be released in Australia, though Kia is planning to launch its related EV4 here.
The arrival of the Ioniq 3 represents a move towards a fully electric lineup, phasing out older models and embracing a more modern design and platform. This shift signals a bold step for Hyundai in the increasingly competitive electric vehicle market.
