Possible appearance of a powerful electric Hyundai Ioniq 3 N
The world of high-speed electric vehicles continues to search for its identity. The new Hyundai Ioniq 3, whose design is already being compared to the Pontiac Aztek, could become the first compact electric hatchback to receive a powerful version from the N division.
Hyundai already has successful experience with electric N-series cars, starting with the Ioniq 5 N model three years ago. This proved that an electric car can be truly exciting to drive. Now the company is considering the possibility of creating a similar version for the smaller Ioniq 3 model.
The N brand philosophy and the change in approach
Hyundai’s management emphasizes that the N brand has always been about driving pleasure and speed in corners, not just about accelerating to 100 km/h. A smaller and lighter car, like the Ioniq 3, does not need supercar-level power to be interesting.
We are exploring various paths to expand the N lineup. N has always been about cornering speed and driving pleasure. When we launched the i30 N, it wasn’t about dry acceleration figures to 100 km/h and so on. It’s about having fun while driving.
Until now, Hyundai has avoided creating N cars on the more affordable 400-volt architecture, fearing cooling problems on the track. However, the position is now changing, and the company sees the potential to make the Ioniq 3 more dynamic.
Example from Kia and technical prospects
Kia, which is part of the holding, has already introduced a powerful version of its electric compact crossover, the EV3 GT. Since the EV3 and Ioniq 3 use almost identical technical foundations, this opens the way for creating a powerful Hyundai.
The EV3 GT is equipped with two electric motors with a combined power of 288 hp and a torque of 468 Nm. These figures correspond to modern powerful hatchbacks with internal combustion engines, including Hyundai’s own i30 N model.
After the presentation of the Concept Three concept car, Hyundai Motor Europe’s management also expressed interest in a similar project.
The concept is quite sporty, and obviously, you have the N brand heritage. I think it’s a fair topic for discussion.
The decision to create the Ioniq 3 N has not yet been finalized, but all the technical prerequisites and interest from the company’s management indicate a high probability of such a model appearing. This could become an important step in popularizing affordable yet emotional electric cars, focusing on handling, not just absolute power. The success of the Kia EV3 GT also shows that the market is ready for such offerings.