How the Hyundai IONIQ 3 Combines Design and Technology for a More Intuitive EV Experience

Hyundai IONIQ 3 blends Hyundai’s ‘Art of Steel’ design with a warm cabin inspired by contemporary furniture design
Compared to the sporty styling of the N Line, the IONIQ 3 in its other trim levels emphasises the model’s crisp, clean surfacing and refined character
While N-Line features 19-inch wheels and a driver-focused cabin theme, the wider IONIQ 3 range is offered with 16- to 18-inch wheels and a variety of bright, airy interior colours
As Hyundai’s first European model with Pleos Connect, IONIQ 3 introduces a smartphone-like user interface and extendable features for a more software-driven in-car experience
From the start of the development, particular emphasis was put on European customer needs

Hyundai Motor Europe presents IONIQ 3 as a new expression of electric mobility, combining confident exterior design, a warm and highly personalisable interior, and next-generation connected technology. Designed for people's real everyday needs, the fully-electric compact hatchback brings the progressive character of the IONIQ brand to a broader range of customers.

How does the exterior express the serene confidence of IONIQ 3?

At the centre of IONIQ 3 is Hyundai’s ‘Art of Steel’ philosophy, a minimalistic, pure form language expressed through its distinctive ‘Aero Hatch’ silhouette, which combines aerodynamic efficiency with boldness and elegance, while at the same time liberating generous interior space for a serene and comfortable environment for everyday driving.

How did Hyundai make the IONIQ 3 cabin feel more like a living space?

Inside, IONIQ 3 continues this design clarity through a convenient and clearly structured interior. Its main volumes are softly sculpted, following the natural behaviour of the materials to enhance comfort and perceived quality. This creates clean surfaces that frame the cabin while allowing key functional elements, such as the air vents and central display, to stand out with clarity and precision. The cabin follows Hyundai’s ‘Furnished Space’ approach, arranging key elements more like furniture than conventional automotive components. Multiple interior colour combinations bring different moods to the cabin, from bright and open to more cocooning and refined.

Why does PLEOS Connect mark a new step for Hyundai in Europe?

IONIQ 3 is the first European Hyundai model to feature PLEOS Connect, Hyundai’s next-generation infotainment system, offering a modern smartphone-like user interface and extendable features through integrated apps. Designed to deliver a more intuitive and seamless in-vehicle experience, PLEOS Connect simplifies the way customers interact with information, entertainment and vehicle functions. It is based on Android Automotive OS, while Hyundai retains control over the overall user experience, system integration and brand environment.

The system combines a large centre display, available as either a 12.9-inch or 14.6-inch screen depending on specification, with an available slim driver-focused display that keeps key information clearly within view, helping reduce distraction while maintaining a clean and intuitive layout. PLEOS Connect also introduces the PLEOS App Market, creating an open but governed ecosystem for third-party app developers and service providers. At start of sales, the system will offer access to around ten content apps, including music streaming, entertainment and productivity apps, with more than 30 expected by the end of the year.