Hyundai Concept Three: A Golf-sized Electric Hot Hatch Set to Dominate European Markets in 2026

At the 2025 Munich Motor Show, Hyundai unveiled its exciting new concept car, the "Concept Three," which offers a futuristic vision for a compact electric hatchback designed to compete with the Volkswagen ID.3 and Kia EV3. This new vehicle showcases a sporty dynamic design combined with unique details driven by Hyundai’s new design language called "Art of Steel," aiming to blend high performance, innovation, and cutting-edge technology.

Innovative Exterior Design

• The Concept Three features a compact hatchback body with a length of 4,287 mm, close to the Golf’s size, and a sloping roofline that resembles a coupe, enhancing its sporty character.

• It boasts full glass wrapping from front to back with a curved roofline, giving the car a futuristic and elegant appearance.

• The design incorporates gradient pixelated lights on both front and rear to emphasize sophistication and detail.

• Large wheels and lemon-colored tinted windows add a unique flair, though such elements may be toned down in the production version.

• The design embraces the “Art of Steel” philosophy, emphasizing the use of steel through sculpted smooth surfaces and sharp intersections.

Interior Design and User Experience

• Hyundai follows a novel approach inside by reducing large screens and allowing drivers to mount customizable digital widgets of their choice.

• The seats have a capsule-like design covered in sustainable fabrics, underscoring Hyundai's focus on environmental responsibility.

• The center console is minimalistic with physical buttons for climate and driving controls, easing driver interaction without distraction.

• An unusual handle on the console resembles a portable dust-cleaning device, reflecting Hyundai’s innovative attention to functional detail.

Technical Specifications

• The Concept Three is expected to be based on the E-GMP electric platform operating at 400 volts, with battery choices around 58.3 and 81.4 kWh.

• The larger battery variant could provide a driving range up to 628 km under WLTP standards, making it very competitive in the compact EV segment.

• It supports fast charging capabilities, allowing approximately 100 km of range in around 20 minutes of charging.

• The vehicle may feature an adaptive all-wheel-drive system balancing on-road comfort and off-road capability (depending on the final model).

Performance and Competition

• Targeted primarily at European markets, the production model will compete directly with vehicles like the Volkswagen ID.3 and Kia EV3 in the compact electric hatchback segment.

• The production car will reportedly have standard rear doors, unlike the concept’s more radical door design.

• Hyundai promises a balanced blend of lightweight construction, efficiency, and sporty handling with modern aerodynamic stylings.

Lighting and Modern Technologies

• The vehicle features parametric pixel lighting on both ends, reinforcing the Ioniq branding and creating a unique visual signature.

• Sustainable materials are used extensively inside, including recycled and ocean-plastic-based fabrics, maintaining high quality and durability.

• Infotainment and driver assistance systems will match the car’s minimalistic yet functional ethos, supporting modern smartphone connectivity standards.

Quick Comparison Table

The Hyundai Concept Three marks a significant step forward in the electric compact hatchback category, merging sporty aesthetics, advanced technology, and environmental consciousness. The upcoming production Ioniq 3 is set to become a standout contender in the segment by 2026, boosting Hyundai’s presence in the global electric vehicle race.