By James Stinson
Hyundai has expanded its growing electric vehicle line-up with the launch of the new IONIQ 3, a compact electric hatchback aimed squarely at buyers seeking an affordable route into EV ownership.
With prices starting from £22,245 and a claimed range of up to 308 miles, the newcomer enters one of the most competitive parts of the market, taking on rivals such as the Renault 5 E-Tech, Citroën ë-C3, Vauxhall Frontera Electric and Volkswagen ID.2 when it arrives.
Designed as a practical family-friendly hatchback rather than a tech-focused flagship, the IONIQ 3 combines compact dimensions with a surprisingly spacious interior, while introducing several new technologies to Hyundai’s European range.
Familiar foundations
The IONIQ 3 is closely related to the Kia EV2, sharing much of its underlying engineering, battery technology and electric architecture. As a result, buyers can expect a very similar ownership experience from both cars, with styling emerging as the most significant point of differentiation.
While the Kia adopts a more upright crossover-inspired appearance, Hyundai has gone in a different direction with what it calls an “Aero Hatch” design. The sleek bodywork has been developed with efficiency in mind, helping the car achieve a drag coefficient of around 0.263, while Hyundai’s distinctive pixel-inspired lighting ensures it remains instantly recognisable as part of the IONIQ family.
Two battery choices
At launch, customers can choose between two battery and motor combinations.
The entry-level model combines a 42kWh battery with a 145bhp electric motor and offers an expected range of up to 213 miles. For motorists covering greater distances, a larger 61kWh battery is available. This version uses a 133bhp motor and delivers a claimed range of up to 308 miles, depending on specification.
All versions are built around a 400-volt electrical architecture and support AC charging at up to 11kW. Hyundai has also focused on convenience, offering Plug & Charge capability, integrated route planning for EV journeys and both interior and exterior Vehicle-to-Load functionality on selected models, allowing owners to power external devices from the car’s battery.
New technology inside
The IONIQ 3 also debuts Hyundai’s Pleos Connect infotainment system in Europe. Based on Android Automotive OS, it is designed to offer smartphone-like usability, with either a 12.9-inch or larger 14.6-inch touchscreen depending on trim level.
Other available technology includes Hyundai Digital Key 2, allowing owners to access and start the vehicle using their smartphone, while a new Memory Reverse Assist feature can memorise the last 50 metres driven and automatically replicate steering inputs when reversing out of awkward spaces.
Despite its compact footprint, Hyundai claims the cabin offers the practicality of a larger vehicle. Interior highlights include a floating centre console, underfloor Megabox storage area and a generous 441-litre boot.
Well equipped from the start
The entry-level Advance trim arrives with a lengthy standard equipment list that should satisfy many buyers. Features include 16-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights and rear lights, front and rear parking sensors, dual-zone climate control, a 12.9-inch infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality and a rear-view monitor.
Safety equipment is equally comprehensive, with lane keeping assistance, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert and forward collision avoidance technology all fitted as standard.
Higher-spec Premium models add larger wheels, privacy glass, battery pre-conditioning, a digital instrument display and a wireless phone charger. Ultimate trim introduces matrix LED headlights, heated seats, a heated steering wheel, ambient lighting and enhanced driver assistance systems.
At the top of the range sits the N Line Evo, which introduces sportier styling, unique alloy wheels, suede-trimmed seats, a larger infotainment screen, remote parking assistance and a surround-view camera system.
Strong value proposition
Perhaps the IONIQ 3’s greatest strength is its pricing. The range opens at £22,245 for the 42kWh Advance model, rising to £25,745 for the 61kWh Advance. Premium versions start from £27,445, while Ultimate trim begins at £29,945. The flagship N Line Evo is priced from £31,945.
The combination of competitive pricing, respectable range, generous equipment levels and Hyundai’s growing EV expertise should make the IONIQ 3 an attractive proposition. However, it enters a market that is becoming increasingly crowded with strong alternatives, many of which offer distinctive styling, faster charging capabilities or greater performance.
Even so, for buyers looking for a practical, well-equipped and affordable electric hatchback, the IONIQ 3 appears to have all the ingredients needed to become one of Hyundai’s most important EV launches yet.
