Hyundai going after Renault and Škoda: preparing 2 new electric SUVs for Europe, one of them under 30,000€
09/10/2026 16:00
Updated to
09/10/2026 16:00
Hyundai is preparing a major expansion of its electric vehicle lineup with two new models aimed at gaining a foothold in some of the most competitive segments of the European market. According to AutoExpress, the South Korean manufacturer is working on two SUVs that could be named IONIQ 4 and IONIQ 7, with releases expected within the next 12 to 18 months. Their goal is to fill the gaps between the current models.
Hyundai needs to strengthen its presence in segments already contested by manufacturers such as Renault, Škoda, and its own sister brand, KIA. The first of these vehicles will be an urban SUV at a relatively affordable price, while the second will feature a family-oriented design and larger size. Although their official specifications have not yet been announced, early reports suggest how they might fit within the lineup.
The Hyundai IONIQ 4 will be an affordable electric SUV
The first of the new models will be a B-segment SUV that will compete with the recently introduced Hyundai IONIQ 3. Its main difference lies in its body design, featuring more square shapes and a driving position typical of a conventional SUV. Its main rivals will include the Škoda Epiq and the electric Renault 4.
Chris McKinnon, Hyundai’s vice president of product for Europe, has acknowledged that this segment is particularly important for the brand. When asked about the possibility of developing a small SUV related to the KIA EV3, the executive avoided confirming the project but gave a revealing response: “To be honest, I can’t answer that question. Stay tuned.”
The aforementioned source indicates that the model could go into production in 2027 under the name IONIQ 4, although its title has not yet been confirmed. It is also expected that the next generation of the Hyundai KONA will drop its all-electric version in several markets, allowing the new SUV to fill that market space.
Two new electric vehicles with more interior space
The future IONIQ 4 is likely to share much of its interior design with the IONIQ 3, including a minimalist cabin layout and the new multimedia system. However, its higher body design will allow for more head and leg room for rear passengers, as well as a larger trunk space.
The second model in the range would appear at the top end, tentatively named IONIQ 7. It would be a family SUV positioned between the IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 9, with a more square body shape than the former and primarily a two-row seating layout, though the source mentions the possibility of an occasional third row. It would also feature the next evolution of Hyundai’s design language.
Up to 640 km of range and prices starting around 30,000 euros
In terms of mechanics, AutoExpress expects the IONIQ 4 to use a platform related to that of the IONIQ 3 and offer batteries of 42 and 61 kWh, initially paired with a front electric motor. It also doesn’t rule out a future two-motor configuration or even a sporty N variant, although none of these options have been officially confirmed.
For the IONIQ 7, forecasts suggest an 800-volt electric architecture with one or two motor configurations. The battery capacity and range are still unknown, but the British publication believes it needs to achieve at least 640 km per charge to compete with its main rivals. The prices listed are merely indicative. The IONIQ 4 could start at around 25,000 British pounds in the UK (about 29,500 euros at current exchange rates), while the IONIQ 7 would range from 45,000 to 50,000 pounds (between 53,000 and 59,000 euros).
According to the published information, both SUVs are expected to arrive within the next 12 to 18 months, meaning their introduction or launch would fall between late 2027 and early 2028. The IONIQ 4 could start production in 2027, although Hyundai has not yet confirmed the final names, exact launch dates, or prices for Spain.