Hyundai is doubling down on hydrogen power with the debut of the second-generation 2026 Hyundai Nexo, revealed at the Seoul Mobility Show. In an era dominated by battery electric vehicles (BEVs), the Nexo stands out by continuing to bet on fuel-cell electric vehicle (FCEV) technology. With upgraded performance, new-generation tech, and refined styling, Hyundai signals it’s not ready to walk away from hydrogen just yet.
More Power for the Second Generation
The most significant mechanical update for the 2026 Nexo lies under the hood. The new model now produces 201 horsepower—up from 161 hp in the outgoing version—thanks to a refined 150-kW electric motor. The motor drives the front wheels and is powered by a compact 2.64-kWh battery, but the real energy source is its advanced hydrogen fuel stack.
This updated fuel cell stack delivers 94 kW of net power, converting hydrogen into electricity on the go. This system enables the Nexo to target an impressive 700 km (around 435 miles) of range, making it one of the most capable hydrogen-powered SUVs on the global market.
Larger Footprint and Refined Design
With this new generation, the 2026 Hyundai Nexo has grown in size. It now stretches 187 inches in length and 73 inches in width, with a height of 64.6 inches. That makes it about 3 inches longer and nearly half an inch taller than the previous model, giving it a more assertive road presence while retaining a similar 109.8-inch wheelbase.
Much of the exterior styling has carried over from Hyundai’s Initium concept showcased earlier. Slim, sculpted headlamps, a futuristic front fascia, and sleek body lines all contribute to a contemporary and aerodynamic design. The design language is clearly targeted at buyers who want their vehicle to be both efficient and futuristic.
A Modern Cabin with Tech-Laden Features
Inside the cabin, Hyundai has stepped up the tech game. A massive dual-display setup spans the dash, including a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a matching 12.3-inch central infotainment touchscreen. This setup supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, providing seamless smartphone integration.
The gear selector remains column-mounted, a signature Hyundai touch, helping keep the center console open and spacious. Premium materials and an intuitive control layout give the interior an upscale yet clean feel.
AI-Powered Driving Experience
Keeping up with the AI revolution, the 2026 Nexo integrates a Voice Recognition Generative AI system. This new assistant promises to be more conversational and responsive, providing AI-generated replies to various voice commands. It’s a bold move that leans into the growing demand for smart, voice-driven vehicle experiences.
Whether it’s adjusting climate controls, navigating to a hydrogen station, or checking traffic updates, the AI assistant aims to deliver faster and more natural responses.
Hydrogen Meets Versatility
While hydrogen vehicles traditionally focus on clean mobility, Hyundai adds a layer of practicality by offering vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability in the new Nexo. This means the SUV can supply power to external electronics or appliances, functioning similarly to a portable generator. Whether camping off-grid or facing a blackout at home, the Nexo can be a reliable backup power source.
This inclusion aligns with Hyundai’s broader push toward energy independence and emergency resilience, especially as climate disruptions become more frequent globally.
Limited but Strategic Market Rollout
Despite the global unveiling, availability will be selective. Hyundai confirmed that the Nexo will enter global markets later in 2026, but specific regions will determine its success. In countries like South Korea and parts of Europe where hydrogen infrastructure is growing, the Nexo is expected to find a modest yet committed customer base.
In the United States, however, hydrogen refueling remains largely restricted to California, limiting mainstream appeal. Even if the vehicle reaches U.S. shores, it will likely remain a niche product for early adopters and eco-conscious buyers in hydrogen-supported areas.
The Future of Hydrogen Mobility
While many automakers are shifting focus entirely to BEVs, Hyundai is charting a parallel path by continuing to refine hydrogen fuel-cell technology. The 2026 Nexo serves as a showcase of that commitment, proving that hydrogen can still play a role in clean mobility—especially for those who value quick refueling and long driving range.
The increased horsepower, advanced tech features, and improved practicality of the new Nexo suggest Hyundai isn’t viewing this model as an experiment, but as a legitimate contender in the evolving alternative-fuel landscape.
What Comes Next
Pricing details for the 2026 Hyundai Nexo are expected closer to its official launch. While its availability may remain limited, the Nexo serves as a critical reminder that not all green vehicles are battery-only. For Hyundai, hydrogen remains a viable solution for the future—and the second-generation Nexo is its strongest argument yet.
As infrastructure gradually improves and governments worldwide invest in alternative fuel corridors, the Nexo could very well lead a new wave of hydrogen adoption. Until then, it remains a technological trailblazer and a symbol of Hyundai’s forward-thinking engineering.