2026 Hyundai Nexo First Drive: is Hydrogen Powertrain a Right way to Go?

In this video, Luc-Olivier introduces a vehicle whose hydrogen powertrain is anything but ordinary. You’ll discover the model’s history, its key design elements, and its luxurious interior presentation. The overview also covers the powertrain and, of course, includes a driving report from the roads of South Korea. The 2026 Nexo very closely mirrors the Initium concept revealed in 2024. Hyundai has now moved away from the “Fluidic Sculpture” design language of the 2010s. The new philosophy is called “The Art of Steel.” Being a compact SUV, access on board is excellent. Once inside, you discover an environment of faultless craftsmanship and materials. The level of quality here rivals Genesis. The Connected Car Navigation Cockpit setup returns, consisting of two 12.3-inch displays. The trunk offers 993 litres of space, and over 1,700 litres with the rear seats folded. The electric motor produces 150 kW, or 201 horsepower, with 258 lb-ft of torque. Given the vehicle’s 1,800-kg weight, acceleration isn’t brisk, Hyundai quotes 0–100 km/h in 7.8 seconds. The total hydrogen storage, two carbon-fiber tanks, now holds 6.69 kg (about 170 liters). The small buffer battery that stores energy grows slightly to 2.64 kWh. Hyundai claims average consumption of 0.89 kg/100 km for the larger 19-inch wheels, giving a theoretical range of 752 km. During our test, mostly highways and country roads, I averaged 1.05 kg/100 km, for a real-world range of 637 km. This second-generation Nexo will be sold in Canada, targeting commercial fleets mainly in certain regions such as Vancouver and Toronto. In the USA, the market is much bigger, California come in first position for market shares. 2026 Hyundai Nexo Highlights: • Electric Motor at 150 kW (201 hp) and 258 lb-ft torque • Up to 752 km range • Exceptional cabin refinement and space • Hydrogen distribution is the main problem with the Nexo If you’re shopping for an alternative to an electric SUV, the Nexo can be excellent choice, if you have access to hydrogen. 👍 Like this video if you love seeing automakers push their hydrogen game. 🔔 Subscribe for more in-depth test drives and reviews: / @motorillustrated 💬 Comment below: Do you think Hyundai is doing good to keep pushing on hydrogen technology? 📸 Follow us on social media: Instagram → [@motor_illustrated]( / motor_illustrated ) Facebook → [Motor Illustrated]( / motorillustrated ) Keywords: Hyundai, Hyundai Nexo, Nexo, Hydrogen, Hydrogen SUV