Hyundai teases smallest Ioniq EV, the size of i20, debut on Sept 9 in Munich
Hyundai has teased its smallest Ioniq EV yet, likely to be called Ioniq 2, ahead of its September 9 debut at the Munich Motor Show. The compact hatchback will sit above the Inster EV and offer an electric alternative to the i20, with production scheduled for 2026 in Europe. Expected rivals include Renault 5 E-Tech, Peugeot e-208, Citroën e-C3, and BYD Dolphin.
New Delhi: Hyundai is preparing to showcase its smallest Ioniq yet, a compact electric hatchback that could redefine the brand’s EV line-up. The car will be unveiled in concept form at the IAA Mobility Show in Munich on September 9, 2025, with the production model expected to arrive in the first half of 2026.
The teaser images reveal a city-friendly hatch that borrows styling cues from the Ioniq 6, such as the full-width LED lighting front and rear. A chunky fastback profile with a ducktail spoiler and flared fenders adds to its sporty look. It may be Hyundai’s baby Ioniq, but the design hints at something sharper than just another city car.
Positioned above Inster, alternative to i20
In production form, the EV is likely to be named Ioniq 2. It will sit above the recently launched Inster EV and provide a zero-emission option to the i20 hatchback and Bayon crossover in Europe. This move would give Hyundai an entry point in the competitive small EV market, where affordability, range, and practicality matter most.
The model will compete directly with cars like the Renault 5 E-Tech, Peugeot e-208, Citroën e-C3, Opel Corsa Electric, Nissan Micra EV, MG4, and BYD Dolphin. All of these are positioned in the under-€30,000 bracket (about ₹25.5 lakh), a segment heating up fast in Europe.
Likely to use Hyundai–Kia E-GMP platform
Although official specifications are still under wraps, reports suggest the Ioniq 2 will be built on the E-GMP modular platform shared with upcoming Kia EV2 and EV3. The expected powertrain includes a single 150 kW (201 hp) motor paired with a 58.3 kWh battery. This setup could offer a real-world range suitable for city driving and highway commutes, putting it on par with rivals like the BYD Dolphin.
Spy shots seen earlier this year showed test prototypes wearing heavy camouflage, but the proportions seemed to line up with the teaser. The production model will likely tone down the flashy concept styling while retaining the compact fastback silhouette.
What to expect at Munich
Hyundai has promised more teaser sets before the global debut in Munich. The concept will showcase design intent and highlight the brand’s focus on urban-friendly electric mobility. The production car is expected in showrooms across Europe in early 2026, with pricing aimed at keeping it competitive against the likes of Renault and BYD.
For India, Hyundai has yet to confirm plans. With the government’s push for affordable EVs and charging expansion, a compact electric hatch like the Ioniq 2 could be a game-changer if priced right. Given the popularity of the i20 in India, an electric alternative in that size could appeal strongly to urban buyers.