01:51 04-11-2025

First look inside the Hyundai IONIQ 3: smart, practical EV interior

Explore the Hyundai IONIQ 3 interior: Pleos Connect infotainment, tactile controls, recycled materials, up to 480 km range on E-GMP Lite, rival to Tesla Model 2.

Hyundai has offered a first look at the interior of the new IONIQ 3 electric crossover. Photos published by SH Proshots reveal a thoroughly reworked cabin anchored by the latest Pleos Connect system — a digital platform that links the car with cloud services and mobile devices.

The focal point is a large, floating infotainment display that echoes Tesla’s approach. Unlike the American rival, Hyundai has kept a dedicated digital panel ahead of the driver for key information. The combination makes the cockpit both forward-looking and easy to live with — a pragmatic choice for daily use.

A steering wheel with physical buttons signals a return to tactile controls after widespread criticism of touch-only elements. The cabin is finished in warm tones with recycled materials and a lightweight aluminum frame, lending an inviting, modern feel without showiness.

The IONIQ 3 will be the junior model in the range, slotting beneath the IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6. Aimed at European and Asian customers, it offers up to 480 km of driving range and supports fast charging. Built on the E-GMP Lite platform, it is set to square off against the Tesla Model 2, Volkswagen ID.2, and Kia EV3.

Taken together, the IONIQ 3 comes across as one of the most thoughtfully executed urban EVs expected in 2025. Minimalism, smart tech, and attention to detail shape a contender to Tesla — with a distinctly Korean sense of practicality.