Hyundai’s Spectacular Concept THREE May Hint at Future IONIQ 3
Hyundai, returning to the IAA Mobility show in Munich after a four-year absence, is showcasing the next step in its electrification strategy with a concept simply called THREE. This subcompact car could become the future IONIQ 3.
Will we get it in North America? That remains to be seen, but you should know that the vehicle was conceived and designed first and foremost with markets like Europe in mind. Considering that Kia will launch the EV3 and EV5 in Canada starting next year, why wouldn't its parent company do the same? On the other hand, the diminutive size doesn't help, and a hypothetical IONIQ 4 would make more sense for drivers here.
- Also: 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 6 N Unleashed as 641-hp, Drift-Happy EV Sedan
- Also: 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9 to Start at $59,999 in Canada
Inspired by the ‘Art of Steel’
The current IONIQ 5, IONIQ 6 and IONIQ 9 all feature bold yet very different designs. This is also the case for the THREE, which embodies the ‘Art of Steel’ philosophy. Hyundai, in case you didn’t know, has extensive expertise as a steel maker.
At 4,287 mm long, 1,940 mm wide and 1,428 mm tall, the small hatchback concept is just a tad larger than the discontinued Hyundai Veloster, with a somewhat similar silhouette. Its body, painted in Tungsten Gray with an anodized finish, displays a sculpted profile with a number of intersecting lines, while the rear section is highlighted by a wraparound, translucent spoiler and a huge diffuser below.
By the way, you'll notice that Hyundai's signature pixel motif is more expressive here, forming a gradient at both ends.
Even More Spectacular Inside
Lemon-tinted glass and matching wheels forge a strong link between the exterior and interior. In fact, the cabin is defined by soft Moonbeam Yellow and grey tonalities that play across shifting textures. Unsurprisingly, sustainable materials are used throughout, such as ocean waste textiles and lightweight aluminum foam.
No, the THREE’s interior certainly doesn't look like that of a production vehicle, but Hyundai insists it's intended to be both soothing and playful. The modular instruments and widgets on the dashboard are inspired by the "Bring Your Own Lifestyle" movement and offer occupants a wide variety of solutions to personalize their trips.
Then there’s Mr. Pix, a symbolic character that designers have integrated in various places such as the steering wheel to “evoke curiosity, joy and emotional connection” with occupants, Hyundai explains. As for the uniquely shaped seats, they aim to provide generous support for all passengers.
A clear sign that this is more of a design study, the automaker has not provided any details regarding the THREE’s powertrain. However, we can easily imagine it with front-wheel drive and a single 150kW (201 hp) motor, enabling 0-100 km/h acceleration in around 7.5 seconds. Let’s see what comes out next.
