Wednesday, December 31, 2025

Hyundai Nexo NH2

South Korea's only fuel-cell vehicle available to the public, the Hyundai Nexo, is now on its second generation, and this all-new model promises to give an edge to Hyundai's electrification ambitions thanks to its improved FCEV powertrain.

2026 Hyundai Nexo
2026 Hyundai Nexo

Starting at 76,435,000 Korean Won plus additional costs, the all-new, second-generation Nexo continues Hyundai's goals to provide fuel-cell drivability to the masses in an all-new look and feel, some would call it an 8-bit throwback.

2026 Hyundai Nexo
2026 Hyundai Nexo

The all-new Nexo's design is notably inspired by last year's Initium Concept. It is the first vehicle to incorporate Hyundai Motor's new design language, known as 'Art of Steel.' This design embodies the essence of HTWO, which is Hyundai Motor Group's dedicated brand for its hydrogen value chain business. While the squarish throwback look is the main charm point of the Nexo NH2, the rear view is giving us slightly PTSD feels because it reminds us of the infamous Pontiac Aztek of the distant past.

2026 Hyundai Nexo
2026 Hyundai Nexo interior


The all-new Nexo epitomizes the Hyundai brand with its impressive features. Inside, you'll find a panoramic curved display equipped with AI assistance, a leather steering wheel that includes braille at its center—consistent with most modern Hyundai models—and an electronic shift column. Other highlights include a passenger seat with an open tray, dual wireless charging for smartphones, bioprocessed natural leather seats, and an interior made from recycled PET suede. Additionally, it boasts digital rearview mirrors and a built-in dashcam, ensuring you’re prepared for whatever comes your way.

The all-new Nexo offers more space than ever, featuring an enhanced luggage area that can hold four sets of golf bags. Embracing the essence of modern living, it includes front passenger relaxation seats and second-row reclining seats for added comfort.

2026 Hyundai Nexo
2026 Hyundai Nexo

The all-new Nexo features an upgraded fuel cell powertrain with a 162.6-litre fuel tank. It produces 204 PS of power and 350 Nm of torque, surpassing the output of the previous model. Unfortunately, it is only available in front-wheel drive, but it offers an impressive driving range of 720 km. This range exceeds that of the late 90s lean-burn models that Hyundai often boasts about.

Dynamics-wise, the all-new Nexo features e-Handling, which controls drive torque to optimally maintain traction for each tire during cornering, a set of integrated driving modes, regenerative braking control via paddle shifters, the rather cheesy Active Sound Design similar to the IONIQ 5 N, active load noise control, and double-laminated soundproof glass.

Apart from the reinforced body for improved collision safety and nine airbags, the all-new Nexo features a wide array of safety tech, including rear side monitor, Surround View Monitor, the multi-collision avoidance automatic braking system, and pedal misoperation safety assistance, among others. For security purposes, an indoor fingerprint authentication system was implemented to make sure this car rightfully belongs to its driver.

The all-new Hyundai Nexo continues Hyundai's ambition to provide FCEVs to the masses with its retrofuturistic styling, new technology, improved FCEV powertrain, and new packaging. Although it deserves more from this FF-only FCEV crossover, it's all about continuing the ambition set by its makers. Unfinished business, they said.

Available Colors: Quiet Copper Pearl, Creamy White Pearl, Amazon Gray Metallic, Ecotronic Gray Pearl, Phantom Black PEarl, and Ocean Indigo Matte.

Photo: Hyundai Motor Company

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