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Hyundai Prepares New Ioniq 3 Electric Hatchback with 490 km Range, 61 kWh Battery, Fast Charging, and 440-Liter Trunk by Late 2026

Author profile image Carla Teles
Written by Carla Teles Published on 25/08/2026 at 12:25
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The Hyundai Ioniq 3 is a 100% electric hatchback in the B segment with two battery options, a range of up to 490 km, and 10% to 80% charging in 29 minutes.

The Hyundai Ioniq 3 will be the automaker’s new compact electric hatchback for the B segment. Unveiled in a pre-production unit, the model measures just over 4 meters in length, features two battery options, and boasts a maximum announced range of 490 km, with a market launch expected by the end of 2026.

The specifications were presented in a video by Razão Automóvel on April 24, 2026, which obtained access to the vehicle ahead of its commercial launch. The material details versions with 42.2 kWh and 61 kWh batteries, fast charging capabilities via direct current, an expanded trunk with a lower compartment, and interior solutions designed to make better use of available space.

Hyundai Ioniq 3 Will Be an Electric Hatchback in the B Segment

Hyundai Ioniq 3 is an electric hatchback with a 61 kWh battery, 490 km range, and 440 liters trunk; arriving by late 2026.
Image: Reproduction/Razão Automóvel/YouTube.

Unlike the wave of compact SUVs that has gained popularity in recent years, the new model focuses on a lower hatchback body style. The Hyundai Ioniq 3 will measure just over 4 meters in length and will be positioned in the B segment.

The unit presented was configured in the N Line trim, which has a sportier appearance. However, this does not mean it is a high-performance version equivalent to Hyundai’s N models. The vehicle shown was a pre-production configuration with specific visual elements.

Range Could Reach 490 km With 61 kWh Battery

The higher-range configuration will use a 61 kWh battery and is announced to have a range of up to 490 km. This is the Long Range option mentioned in the presentation.

The smaller battery will have 42.2 kWh and an indicated range of approximately 335 km. Thus, the Hyundai Ioniq 3 will offer two clearly distinct alternatives based on the range provided between charges.

Charging From 10% to 80% Will Take 29 Minutes

Both battery options can go from 10% to 80% charge in approximately 29 minutes when connected to fast direct current charging, according to the information presented.

The Hyundai Ioniq 3 will use a 400-volt electrical architecture on the Hyundai group’s E-GMP platform. The material does not provide the maximum charging power in kW, so that data should not be estimated based on the time disclosed.

Smaller Battery Version Will Have More Powerful Motor

Hyundai Ioniq 3 is an electric hatchback with a 61 kWh battery, 490 km range, and a 440-liter trunk; arrives by the end of 2026.
Image: Reproduction/Razão Automóvel/YouTube.

One notable aspect is the power distribution among the versions. The Standard Range configuration, equipped with the smaller 42.2 kWh battery, will have 147 hp.

The Long Range version with a 61 kWh battery, despite having the larger battery, will utilize a motor rated at 135 hp. According to the provided explanation, the difference aims to enhance efficiency and make better use of the energy capacity of the longer range configuration.

Trunk will have about 440 liters

Another noteworthy figure for a hatchback measuring just over four meters is the cargo capacity. The trunk reaches approximately 440 liters considering the different available spaces, according to the presentation.

Part of this volume comes from a solution positioned under the floor. Hyundai refers to the lower compartment as Mega Box, with an additional 119 liters of space, enough to fit a larger suitcase, as demonstrated.

Lower compartment creates hidden space under the floor

Hyundai Ioniq 3 is an electric hatchback with a 61 kWh battery, 490 km range, and a 440-liter trunk; arrives by the end of 2026.
Image: Reproduction/Razão Automóvel/YouTube.

The Mega Box also allows items to remain out of sight when the main floor of the trunk is installed. This adds a layer of modularity to the rear compartment.

This solution helps the Hyundai Ioniq 3 offset a relatively compact body and a low roofline. The aim is to maximize vertical utilization of an area that would typically be less accessible to the user.

Model maintains visual identity of the Ioniq family

At the front and rear, the model employs lighting elements in a pixel format, a feature already associated with the Ioniq electric range.

Additionally, there are four light points representing the letter H in Morse code, a nod to the name Hyundai. At the front, air intakes can open or close automatically as needed for cooling.

N Line will feature 19-inch wheels and a more aggressive design

Hyundai Ioniq 3 is an electric hatchback with a 61 kWh battery, 490 km range, and a 440-liter trunk; expected by the end of 2026.
Image: Reproduction/Razão Automóvel/YouTube.

The pre-production unit showcased was equipped with 19-inch wheels, glossy black wheel arches, and sportier-looking bumpers.

The design also features a large rear spoiler and surfaces marked by the design language Hyundai calls Art of Steel. According to the presentation, some of these elements assist in aerodynamic management and drag reduction.

Interior to Feature 12.9 and 14.6-Inch Screens

Hyundai Ioniq 3 is an electric hatchback with a 61 kWh battery, 490 km range, and a 440-liter trunk; expected by the end of 2026.
Image: Reproduction/Razão Automóvel/YouTube.

Inside the cabin, the instrument panel utilizes a 12.9-inch screen, mounted in a high position in front of the driver.

The information and entertainment system is presented on another screen, measuring 14.6 inches. The base of the operating system utilizes Google technology, while the user interface was developed by Hyundai itself.

Hyundai Retained Physical Buttons for Frequent Functions

Despite the large screens, the manufacturer did not centralize all controls in the digital system. Physical controls remain available for functions frequently used during driving.

Among them are climate control, temperature, ventilation, audio, and seat functions. This choice aims to reduce the need to navigate through digital menus for simple tasks.

Cabin Focuses on Modular Spaces

Hyundai Ioniq 3 is an electric hatchback with a 61 kWh battery, a range of 490 km, and a trunk capacity of 440 liters; set to arrive by the end of 2026.
Image: Reproduction/Razão Automóvel/YouTube.

The interior design aims to utilize different areas for storage. There are two designated spots for smartphones, one of which features wireless charging, along with cup holders and additional compartments in the console.

One of the cup holders can be removed to create a deeper and wider space, capable of accommodating larger containers. There is also storage space beneath the armrest and below the center console.

Rear space tries to compensate for low roofline

Hyundai Ioniq 3 is an electric hatchback with a 61 kWh battery, a range of 490 km, and a trunk capacity of 440 liters; set to arrive by the end of 2026.
Image: Reproduction/Razão Automóvel/YouTube.

The compact body and relatively low roof could limit space in the second row. However, in the demonstration, an occupant about 1.78 meters tall still had knee and headroom.

The presentation notes that people taller than approximately 1.80 meters may feel greater limitations near the ceiling. Rear passengers also benefit, in the shown configuration, from ventilation outlets and heated seats in the side positions.

Hyundai Ioniq 3 slated to hit the market by the end of 2026

Watch the video

YouTube video

The presenters during the event indicated that the Hyundai Ioniq 3 is expected to reach the market by the end of 2026, although a more specific timeframe for the start of sales has not yet been disclosed.

The prices were also not defined in the materials used as a source. Therefore, any estimates presented during the video should not be treated as Hyundai’s official pricing table until the manufacturer releases the final values.

Compact hatchback bets on range and space to compete in the electric market

With up to 490 km of range, a 61 kWh battery, charging from 10% to 80% in 29 minutes, and approximately 440 liters of trunk space, the Hyundai Ioniq 3 aims to combine compact external dimensions with figures typically valued in larger electric vehicles.

Its arrival also presents an alternative to the compact electric SUVs that dominate a significant portion of recent launches. Would you prefer a slightly over 4-meter electric hatchback with 490 km of range, or would you still choose an SUV despite its larger dimensions and price? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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Carla Teles

I produce daily content on economics, diverse topics, the automotive sector, technology, innovation, construction, and the oil and gas sector, with a focus on what truly matters to the Brazilian market. Here, you will find updated job opportunities and key industry developments. Have a content suggestion or want to advertise your job opening? Contact me: carlatdl016@gmail.com

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