The Korean automaker had mentioned multiple times how important it would be to offer a cheaper alternative to the current Ioniq 5 EV, but never revealed any details beyond that. According to these images posted on Carscoops, Hyundai’s cheapest electric car will be a hatchback called the Ioniq 3.
Reportedly, it is roughly 4.1 meters (161.4 inches) long with 2.65 m (104.3 inches) between the axles. The photos make it look rather stylish and sporty – not least thanks to N-Line aero parts and futuristic, turbine-like wheels. As for the interior, it accommodates a squared steering wheel, a large 14.6-inch head unit and seats with enhanced lumbar support.
Most of the specifications are also already known from unofficial sources. According to these, the Ioniq 3 will share the architecture with the Kia EV3. It will feature a single e-motor with 135 PS (133 hp / 99 kW) at the front axle. A 42.2-kWh battery pack will grant it up to 344 kilometers (213 miles) of range.
Paying for the premium spec will bump up the output to 147 PS (145 hp / 108 kW) and the battery volume to 61 kWh. Outfitted like this, the Ioniq 3 should be good for nearly 500 kilometers (310 miles) of range per charge, although this remains to be confirmed. Last but not least, a full-fledged N version is expected to debut with dual motors, electric AWD and sportier suspension settings.
The reports say that Hyundai’s wallet-friendliest EV will be assembled in Turkey and is slated to go on sale in Europe before the end of the year.
