Hyundai Ioniq 3: Bold EV Hatch Aims for One-Stop Family Car

Hyundai Ioniq 3 Arrives with Striking Design and Practicality

The new Hyundai Ioniq 3 is here, aiming to shake up the electric car market with its unique styling and surprising practicality. This compact EV looks to be more than just a city car, offering enough range and space to serve as a family’s primary vehicle.

Range and Performance

Buyers can choose between two battery options for the Ioniq 3. The standard range model features a 42.2 kWh battery, providing an estimated 335 km of range.

For those needing more distance, the long-range version comes with a 61 kWh battery, boosting the estimated range to an impressive 490 km. This extended range means the Ioniq 3 can easily handle longer trips, making it a versatile option for various needs.

Design: Art of Steel

Hyundai’s design team has developed a new language called “Art of Steel” for the Ioniq 3. This approach focuses on the tension and forms created by steel, resulting in a distinctive and bold look. Unlike many sleek, generic EVs, the Ioniq 3 stands out with its unique lines and shapes.

The N-Line version, shown in Fierce Red, features a more aggressive bumper design and larger 19-inch aero wheels, while the standard model comes with 16-inch wheels. Smaller wheels are recommended for those prioritizing maximum efficiency.

The rear of the car sports signature pixel lights, but the overall shape tapers to a boat-tail effect for better aerodynamics. This design choice contributes to its impressive range figures.

Interior and Practicality

Inside, the Ioniq 3 continues its theme of thoughtful design, drawing inspiration from 70s furniture but with a modern twist. The interior feels cohesive, with each element considered for both function and style.

Practical touches abound, such as the removable cup holders that can be easily cleaned or used to hold larger items. There’s ample storage space, including a dedicated spot for parking tickets and large areas perfect for handbags.

The car also boasts dual phone charging capabilities. A key highlight is the boot space, which offers a generous 441 liters.

A clever hidden compartment can even hold a large suitcase, demonstrating the car’s surprising cargo capacity for its size. This makes it a strong contender for families needing to haul gear.

Technology and Comfort

The Ioniq 3 will feature Hyundai’s latest infotainment system, built on the Android Automotive OS. This allows for app development and over-the-air updates, addressing a common criticism of earlier Hyundai EV systems.

The system balances intuitive touchscreen controls with essential physical buttons, including a dedicated button for the heated seats, which is a welcome convenience. The flat floor, thanks to the EV-specific platform, provides excellent legroom for both front and rear passengers.

While the N-Line’s dark interior can feel a bit enclosed, lighter options in other trims should enhance the sense of space. The rear headroom is slightly compromised by the aerodynamic roofline, though a subtle dimple in the headliner helps create a feeling of more room. Despite its compact exterior dimensions, the Ioniq 3 offers enough rear space to comfortably accommodate two lanky teenagers.

Value and Competition

Pricing for the Hyundai Ioniq 3 is expected to start in the mid-20,000s, with the top-tier N-Line version likely reaching the mid-30,000s. Official pricing will be confirmed later this year.

The Ioniq 3 is built on Hyundai Motor Group’s E-GMP platform, which it shares with the Kia EV2. However, the Ioniq 3 prioritizes aerodynamics, achieving a longer range (490 km) compared to the more upright Kia EV2 (448 km) with similar battery sizes.

The Ioniq 3 will compete with other notable EVs like the Renault 5, Renault 4, and the Volvo EX30. Its blend of striking design, substantial range, and practical features positions it as a strong value proposition in the B/C-segment electric car market, especially for those seeking a single car to handle all their family’s needs.

Verdict

The Hyundai Ioniq 3 makes a compelling case for itself with its brave and bold design, surprisingly practical boot, and capable range. It aims to be a one-stop shop for families, and based on its specifications and features, it appears well-equipped to achieve that goal. While a full driving test is still pending, the initial impressions suggest this electric hatch is a significant and admirable addition to Hyundai’s EV lineup.

The Hyundai Ioniq 3 is expected to arrive in the UK towards the end of the summer.

Source: IONIQ 3 vs EV2: Same DNA, Different Beast?! (YouTube)