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Testing of the Hyundai Ioniq 2 model identified: Possibly India's upcoming compact electric vehicle?

Hyundai's next Ioniq model will ride on a budget-friendly, front-wheel drive adaptation of the same electric vehicle platform (E-GMP) that supports Kia's EV3.

Spied during testing: Could Hyundai's Ioniq 2 be India's impending compact electric vehicle?
Spied during testing: Could Hyundai's Ioniq 2 be India's impending compact electric vehicle?

Testing of the Hyundai Ioniq 2 model identified: Possibly India's upcoming compact electric vehicle?

Hyundai Ioniq 2: A Compact Electric Hatchback for Urban Commutes

The Hyundai Ioniq 2, a highly anticipated electric vehicle (EV), is set to debut at the Munich Motor Show in September 2025, with a global launch expected around the third quarter of 2026. Although Hyundai has not officially confirmed the India launch, the EV's practical design and features make it a potential contender in the Indian market, given Hyundai's recent EV expansions there.

Design and Interior

The Ioniq 2 boasts a more tech-focused, modern cabin with a "step change" in usability over current Ioniq models. Exterior design cues from the Hyundai Ioniq 6, including slim LED headlights and a sporty, aggressive front, are evident. The car features a slightly raised hatchback form with a raked roofline, similar in size to the India-bound Bayon. A combined instrument and infotainment display stretching about half the width of the dashboard promises a cleaner, integrated look.

Battery and Range

Built on Hyundai’s scalable E-GMP platform, shared with many Hyundai and Kia EVs, the Ioniq 2 is expected to share battery and motor options with the Kia EV3. This includes either a 58.3 kWh battery with around 430 km WLTP range or an 81.4 kWh battery with about 600 km WLTP range. However, some sources suggest India-specific versions might have battery capacities of 38 kWh or 50 kWh, targeting a driving range of 300-400 km to suit the urban Indian environment.

Potential India Launch and Pricing

While an official confirmation on the India release is yet to be made, the expected launch window in India is late 2026. The estimated price range in India is between ₹15 lakh and ₹20 lakh (ex-showroom), positioning it as an affordable compact EV option in the Indian market. It may be considered a competitor against models like Tata Punch EV, eC3, and Comet EV.

In summary, the Hyundai Ioniq 2 offers a compact, tech-rich electric hatchback with battery options delivering between roughly 300 to 600 km of range internationally. Although an India launch is probable given Hyundai’s EV ambitions, it remains unconfirmed but is anticipated in the same timeframe with pricing under ₹20 lakh. The Ioniq 2's practical design, tech-focused interior, and potential for a smaller battery to optimize costs make it suitable for urban commutes in India.

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