The all-new Hyundai Nexo has entered its second generation, debuting at the Seoul Mobility Show 2025 earlier this year, and before going on sale in South Korea in June.
It’s on display at the Japan Mobility Show, where we saw the hydrogen fuel cell SUV up close ahead of its confirmed U.S. reveal at the Los Angeles Auto Show on November 20. The redesigned SUV arrives seven years after the original Nexo, and as confirmed during our time with the vehicle, shows all-round improvements.
Design
The 2026 Nexo adopts Hyundai’s new “Art of Steel” design language, previewed by the Initium Concept, and looks nothing like what is parked inside any global Hyundai dealership today. This is Hyundai’s future design language that will influence models starting with the Ioniq 3 and the next-gen Tucson. It creates an impression of strength and precision through clean surfaces and horizontal detailing.
New HTWO pixel-inspired lamps are a big part of its identity, while the sculpted body, dual character lines, and arch-shaped cross section gives it a unique presence. At the rear, the theme is once again radically different, with a D-pillar that creates a polygonal quarter glass panel, a raked windscreen, pixel-inspired lighting, and a vertical bumper with dual-tone armor.
Interior
The cabin has been reimagined as a “Furnished Space,” combining soft-touch materials, ambient lighting, and a Vision Roof. The familiar curved 12.3-inch dual display setup runs Hyundai’s ccNC infotainment system with over-the-air updates, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Bang & Olufsen 14-speaker audio system.
Besides a head-up display, the redesigned Nexo also offers vehicle-to-load capability inside and outside the cabin, allowing direct plug-in use without an adapter. Premium Relaxation Seats, fingerprint-based user profiles, dual wireless charging pads, and Digital Key 2 connectivity are other feature highlights in the new Nexo.
My experience in the next-gen Nexo FCEV
I faced no issues getting in or out of the all-new Hyundai Nexo. The driver’s seat offered great back support and excellent under-thigh comfort, aided by an extendable leg rest. I liked the snug bolstering, which felt more comfort-oriented than sporty. Outward visibility was clear at the front and sides, though limited at the rear due to the sharply raked back glass. The digital side cameras provided crisp, wide views of the surroundings. The driver’s seat also automatically adjusts to its default position when the door is opened, making egress effortless.
At the back, I had to mind my head while getting in, as the roofline slopes down noticeably. Taller passengers would need to duck slightly. Once seated, I found good back support, decent under-thigh comfort, and generous knee and legroom. A reclining function further enhances comfort. The rear seat easily accommodates three adults on long drives. Rear amenities include a fold-out central armrest with two cup holders, two 100-watt USB-C ports, air vents, and a 100-volt power outlet.
Specifications
Hyundai says it has redesigned the fuel cell and power electronics systems for greater efficiency and performance. The hydrogen stack delivers 110 kW gross and 94 kW net, paired with an 80 kW high-voltage battery and a 150 kW (201 hp) motor producing 350 Nm (258.1 lb-ft) of torque.
Performance improves with a 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) time of 7.8 seconds (internal testing, Korea, 18-inch wheels, GL trim) and a top speed of 111 mph (179 km/h). The new composite hydrogen tanks hold up to 6.69 kg (14.74 lbs) of hydrogen, increasing capacity from 6.33 kg (13.95 lbs) in the previous model.
Hyundai claims a driving range of up to 447 miles (720 km, Korean MOTIE combined cycle, 18-inch wheels, Exclusive trim) and a certified efficiency of 67 mi/kg (107.6 km/kg, Korean MOTIE), with a refueling time of about five minutes.
Aerodynamic refinements, sound-absorbing tires, and Active Noise Control-Road technology are claimed to have improved both range and refinement. European models will also introduce towing capability up to 2,205 lb (1,000 kg), making the Nexo the first fuel cell vehicle with this feature.
Chassis & Driving Technology
The second-generation Nexo uses a reinforced multi-skeleton body structure with expanded hot-stamped and high-strength steel. This offers improved frontal and side impact load paths strengthening occupant protection, while Hyundai’s new e-Handling system optimizes motor torque for added grip and stability.
The Smart Regenerative System automatically adjusts regenerative braking intensity, guided by navigation data and distance to surrounding vehicles.
Dimensions & Cargo
The 2026 Nexo measures 187.0 in (4,750 mm) long, 73.4 in (1,865 mm) wide, and 64.6 in (1,640 mm) tall (65.9 in [1,673 mm] with roof rack), with a 109.8 in (2,790 mm) wheelbase. Cargo capacity stands at 35.1 cu ft (993 L) behind the second row and 60.7 cu ft (1,719 L) behind the first row (SAE).
Price & Release Date
Pricing, regional specifications and availability for the U.S. will be confirmed at the LA Auto Show premiere.
International Automotive News Editor since 2014, covering global motor shows, industry events, and test-driving various vehicles, with a focus on hybrid and electric cars in recent years.
