2026 Hyundai Nexo Might Be the Coolest Hydrogen-Fueled SUV Ever

Yahoo

03-04-2025

The 2026 Hyundai Nexo debuts as the second generation of the brand's hydrogen fuel-cell SUV.
Along with a really cool concept-inspired design, the Nexo has a 201-hp front-wheel-drive powertrain, and it's expected to offer over 430 miles of range.
It's unclear if Hyundai will sell the Nexo in the United States, but it probably won't because the last version was poorly received.
Is it just us, or does the new second-generation Hyundai Nexo have hints of the company's N Vision 74 concept? Whether you share that thought or not, Hyundai's forthcoming hydrogen-powered SUV might be the coolest FCEV we've ever seen. Like many Hyundai concepts, the production-spec Nexo looks a lot like the Initium concept that the company debuted last fall. Hyundai calls the design language "Art of Steel." Cool.
Measuring 187 inches long, the 2026 Hyundai Nexo is just over three inches longer than its predecessor, which in the U.S. was only sold in California for the 2019–2023 model years. The new version does have an identical 109.8-inch wheelbase, though it's two tenths wider and over an inch taller with its available roof rails. Unlike the old Nexo, the new one also has the ability to pull a trailer, as long as it weighs 2205 pounds or less.
Hyundai says the Nexo's hydrogen fuel-cell powertrain has been improved. Along with a more powerful fuel stack, which is said to be more durable, especially in chilly temps, the electric motor is mightier too. The front-mounted drive unit now makes 201 horsepower, and it's claimed to accelerate from zero to 62 mph in an unremarkable 7.8 seconds. Then again, its predecessor did the deed in a claimed 9.2 ticks, so that's notably quicker. With a larger hydrogen tank and improved efficiency, Hyundai is targeting a max driving range of over 430 miles.
Inside, the Nexo looks mostly similar to other Hyundai models, with the dashboard's horizontal elements and pair of 12.3-inch displays. The infotainment system features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but it also uses generative AI for its voice commands. A Bang & Olufsen stereo offers up to 12 speakers, and there's a head-up display for those who appreciate such niceties. Some Nexos can also be outfitted with camera-fed side mirrors, but that's only in certain markets.
Wanna kick back and relax while chilling at a hydrogen-fueling station? Well, the Nexo's front seats not only recline, but they also offer ventilated cushions and fold-out leg rests. Hyundai says the people in the back enjoy better headroom and shoulder room than before, and the rear doors open wider too, so those of us with bad backs have an easier time climbing in and out. Golfers will appreciate that FCEV SUV can hold up to four golf bags. Its larger cargo hold is said to have 35 cubic feet with the rear seatbacks erect; fold them flat and the space grows to 61 cubes.
Unfortunately, the next-gen Nexo probably isn't coming to the United States. And if it does, once again it would likely only be sold in California. Instead, Hyundai says it will be coming to global markets sometime later this year.
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