Not Quite a Moon Rover, But Close: Hyundai Previews Youth-Oriented Hatchback for Europe

Hyundai took the stage at the Munich Auto Show with the Concept Three, a futuristic-looking hatchback that previews the company’s next addition to its all-electric Ioniq lineup. The production version is expected to arrive in Europe in 2026.

The move reflects Hyundai’s strategy to expand its EV offerings in the compact segment, where demand is projected to grow fastest in Europe. Instead of pushing Ioniq further upmarket, Hyundai is going smaller. The Concept Three is likely to hit showrooms as the Ioniq 3, though final badging could also be Ioniq 2 or Ioniq 4. Currently, the smallest Ioniq is the mid-size hatchback-crossover Ioniq 5 — hardly a true compact by European standards.

Veloster Vibes, Four Real Doors

The Concept Three measures 168.7 inches long, 76.4 inches wide, and 56.2 inches tall, riding on a 107.2-inch wheelbase. Its dimensions recall the quirky Hyundai Veloster, discontinued in 2022, and some of its proportions carry over. Unlike the Veloster, however, the new EV will feature a conventional four-door layout instead of asymmetrical doors or the show car’s rear-hinged setup.

Art of Steel Design Language

Styling follows Hyundai’s new Art of Steel design philosophy, first previewed on the second-generation Nexo fuel-cell crossover. Pixel-inspired lighting details and grille patterns create a retro-digital vibe, even capable of nostalgic animations reminiscent of early video games. The cabin continues the pixel theme with a four-seat layout and experimental materials, including lightweight aluminum-based eco foam.

Simplified Platform, Familiar Performance

Underneath, the production model will ride on a simplified 400-volt version of Hyundai’s E-GMP modular EV platform (the Ioniq 5 uses an 800-volt system). Performance and specs are expected to be close to those of the Kia EV3, which is rolling out in Europe this year and will soon be built in Slovakia alongside the slightly larger Kia EV4.

Hyundai plans to build its new entry-level Ioniq in Europe as well, most likely at its plant in Izmit, Turkey. The company has already begun retooling the facility for EV production, with series production set to begin in the near future.

With its blend of bold design, compact dimensions, and localized production, the Concept Three signals Hyundai’s ambition to make EVs more accessible to younger European buyers — and to carve out new ground in the increasingly competitive small EV market.