2026 Hyundai Nexo FCEV: A Logical Hydrogen SUV | Carscoops

      Can the new Hyundai Nexo FCEV facilitate the growth of hydrogen technology?

      14 hours ago

      By Brad Anderson

      The rugged new Nexo features a completely revamped design and a more robust drivetrain.

      Hyundai has refreshed the interior with new screens and a console inspired by the Palisade.

      Details regarding pricing and availability for the second-generation Nexo have not yet been revealed.

      Although it appears to be a concept vehicle, this is actually the second-generation Hyundai Nexo FCEV, which was presented at the Seoul Mobility Show in Korea. The Nexo’s concept car aesthetic is attributed to the Initium concept introduced by Hyundai last October, which previewed this model, and like other recent designs from Hyundai, the production version closely aligns with the concept.

      This new iteration is built on Hyundai’s ‘Art of Steel’ design philosophy and is entirely different from its predecessor. While the previous Nexo had a charming and rounded appearance, the new Nexo showcases a significantly more rugged and boxy design, clearly setting it apart from other Hyundai vehicles.

      The front end features what Hyundai refers to as ‘HTWO’ LED lights, each comprising four distinct dots. This second-generation Nexo stands more upright than its predecessor and is showcased with contrasting black fender flares. The design and proportions of the side windows, along with the prominent C-pillars that extend through the side glass to the rear doors, are particularly noteworthy.

      Hyundai has not only revamped the Nexo's design but has also made substantial enhancements to the powertrain. It now includes a 2.64 kWh battery pack, a hydrogen fuel cell stack generating 147 hp (110 kW), and a single electric motor delivering 201 hp (150 kW). The car accelerates from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 7.8 seconds, and the hydrogen tank capacity has been increased from 13.9 lbs (6.33 kg) to 14.7 lbs (6.69 kg). Hyundai aims for a driving range exceeding 435 miles (700 km) and claims that it only takes five minutes to replenish over 435 miles of range.

      Similar to Hyundai’s battery-electric models, the Nexo FCEV features a vehicle-to-load capability. It can be equipped with digital side mirrors, and European variants have a towing capacity rated at 2,200 lbs (1,000 kg).

      A Contemporary Hyundai Interior

      While the SUV’s exterior is unlike any other Hyundai model, the interior shares some common features from vehicles such as the Santa Fe and Palisade. The dashboard features a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment display. Additionally, there is a 12-inch head-up display, a column-type shifter, and a 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system.

      Hyundai has made the commendable choice of incorporating a dedicated slim touch panel for climate control settings, rather than embedding them within the main display. Other interior highlights include two wireless smartphone charging pads, a digital rearview mirror, and compatibility with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

      Hyundai has yet to release market-specific pricing and availability information for the new Nexo FCEV, but further details are anticipated in the upcoming months.