Hyundai ends i10 production after 18 years and prepares the Ioniq 3, an affordable electric hatchback debuting April 2026. Explore the new era now!
End of an Era for the Hyundai i10
After an 18‑year run across Europe, Hyundai has officially halted production of its compact hatchback, the i10, in the United Kingdom and the wider EU market. Launched in 2008, the i10 sold more than 3.3 million units worldwide, with over 370,000 of those vehicles registered in the UK alone.
Why the i10 Is Being Discontinued
European buyers are increasingly favoring fuel‑efficient engines, hybrids and, most notably, small electric cars. Sales of the i10 have slipped sharply in recent years, prompting Hyundai to stop accepting new orders even while some dealers still have inventory on hand.
The Ioniq 3: Hyundai’s Next‑Generation Affordable EV
Rather than abandoning the entry‑level segment, Hyundai is preparing to fill the gap with the Ioniq 3 – a brand‑new, mass‑market electric hatchback slated for an April 2026 launch. First hinted at the Munich Motor Show under the “Concept Three” name, the production model retains a striking “Aero Hatch” silhouette with a sporty duck‑tail rear spoiler.
Size and Space
The Ioniq 3 measures 4,287 mm in length with a 2,722 mm wheelbase, placing it alongside rivals such as the Kia EV3 and Volkswagen ID.3. The larger footprint means more cabin room than the outgoing i10, raising the bar for practicality in the budget EV segment.
Pricing Outlook
Hyundai has not disclosed an official price yet, but industry analysts estimate the Ioniq 3 will start around £25,000 (≈ ₫880 million), undercutting the current Kona Electric. For reference, the company’s cheapest European EV, the Ioniq 5 “Inster,” starts at £23,495.
Impact on the European City‑Car Landscape
The move mirrors a broader shift across Europe, where internal‑combustion city cars are rapidly disappearing. Kia’s Picanto (known as the Morning in some markets) is one of the few survivors, but even it faces pressure from upcoming low‑cost EVs.
No Plans for the US Market
Hyundai has confirmed that neither the Ioniq 3 nor the Inster EV will be sold in the United States, a market that still prefers larger SUVs and pickups and presents regulatory and cost challenges for small electric models.
What’s Next for Hyundai?
With the Ioniq 3, Hyundai aims to combine affordable pricing, modern design and a practical interior to attract city‑dwelling drivers who want to go electric without breaking the bank. The upcoming launch will be a key indicator of how quickly the European market continues its transition toward zero‑emission mobility.