Hyundai unveils Ioniq 3 electric hatchback and new Bayon at Paris motor show
Hyundai presented the compact Ioniq 3 electric hatchback, with a range of up to 497 km, and a new Bayon crossover at the Paris motor show. The Ioniq 3 departs from the design principles of earlier Ioniq models.
South Korean carmaker Hyundai showed the compact Ioniq 3 electric car at the Paris motor show, alongside the new Tucson and an updated Bayon crossover. The Ioniq 3 made its European debut, and its styling differs from other models in the Ioniq family, indicating a new design direction for the manufacturer's electric cars.
Ioniq 3: a new design direction
The Ioniq 3 is built around a new concept that Hyundai calls Aero Hatch. The silhouette of the electric hatchback is slightly reminiscent of former Dakar rally raid prototypes. The body has a particularly low drag coefficient, and the car is just over 4.1 metres long.
Buyers will be able to choose from 13 body colours, with wheel sizes ranging from 16 to 19 inches. The front-mounted electric motor produces 147 horsepower. Depending on battery size, the range is 344 or 497 kilometres.
The Ioniq 3 is the first Hyundai model in Europe with the integrated Pleos Connect infotainment system. The cabin combines a familiar driver interface with a distinctive driving atmosphere, especially in N Line trim. A new Megabox concept is meant to improve luggage compartment capacity.
The new Bayon
The latest version of the Bayon crossover also had its European premiere at the same time. It is aimed at those who are not yet ready to switch to electric mobility. The Bayon's dashboard architecture has been redesigned with the latest design elements, including a new-generation Hyundai steering wheel.
The core of the engine range will remain a one-litre turbo engine with a manual or dual-clutch gearbox. Buyers will also be able to choose a more powerful version with a 1.6-litre self-charging hybrid. An N Line trim with matching styling elements and sport seats will also be offered.
