In the decade of automotive industry electrification, the Hyundai Nexo uses a different approach to provide better efficiency and emissions. The small Nexo crossover is a sole hydrogen fuel-cell powered high-riding model in the US. The alternatives are Honda Clarity and Toyota Mirai which are the hydrogen-fueled sedans.
The Hyundai Nexo debuted for the 2019 model year while there were just a few changes for the 2020 season. The next 2021 Hyundai Nexo Fuel Cell SUV won’t also bring any significant upgrade. There should again be just a few changes in the equipment organization and availability.
The next Nexo will again be available in two variants as the reports indicate. The Blue version will provide slightly better mileage and it comes well-equipped including modern infotainment and safety features. The Limited version gets more premium features while it has a slightly worse mileage than the Base model.
2021 Hyundai Nexo Fuel Cell SUV: Performance, Efficiency
There are no signs that the next 2021 Hyundai Nexo Fuel Cell SUV will come with the performance or efficiency upgrades.
The Nexo crossover is quiet and smooth while riding like the EV models but it uses the hydrogen cells to produce electricity. The model has 14 pounds of hydrogen in the three cylindrical tanks placed under the rear seat and cargo area. The 95-kWh hydrogen full-stack is combined with the 40-kWh battery and an electric motor is also a part of the package. The engine is good for 161 hp and torque of 291 lb-ft. It sends the power to the front wheels via the single-speed transmission. There is no all-wheel-drive option.
The Nexo can hit 60 mph in the upper 8 seconds range. The Blue version can travel 380 miles per the hydrogen tank while the premium-level Nexo Limited should return 354 miles per tank. The EPA ratings for the Base version are 61MPGe combined while the Limited version has a combined rating of 57 MPGe.
2021 Hyundai Nexo Fuel Cell SUV: Design
The Hyundai Nexo takes a position between the Tucson and Santa Fe in the brand’s crossover SUV lineup. The model is based on the purpose-built, lightweight architecture.
From the visual standpoint, the Nexo sports some styling cues that should appear on the upcoming all-new Tucson. The model has the daytime lamps positioned high on the front facia in the line with the hood lip. The main projector lamps sit lower flanking the brand’s signature grille. The Nexo has also a nicely sculpted profile and interesting rear.
The next 2021 Hyundai Nexo Fuel Cell SUV will stay the same visually. There should be new color and wheel patters at disposal for the new season.
Interior, Equipment:
The cabin of the next 2021 Hyundai Nexo Fuel Cell SUV will also continue to the new model year in the same form.
The model comes with the two-spoke steering wheel and large center screen. It has comfortable seats and there is enough room for adults in both rows. The cargo capacity is up to 57 cubic feet with the rear seats folded or 30 cubic feet with all seats up.
At the equipment level, the Nexo comes with a long list of standard features. The Nexo Blue gets simulated leather upholstery, automatic climate control, heated front seats and keyless entry. The infotainment system integrates a 12.3-inch touchscreen and Apple Car Play and Android Auto. Other connection features include the Blue Link app with a remote engine start and fuel station locator. The base model offers also two USB ports and a wireless charging pad.
Every Nexo comes also equipped with active driver aids including adaptive cruise control, forward collision mitigation, lane departure mitigation, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
The top-grade Limited version adds more premium features such as heated steering wheel, ventilated front seats, premium sound system, automatic wipers, etc. This version gets also additional driver aids such as automated remote parking, front and rear parking sensors, and blind-spot monitor camera.
2021 Hyundai Nexo Fuel Cell SUV: Release, Price
The next 2021 Hyundai Nexo Fuel Cell SUV should go on sale by the year’s end. With no significant upgrades, the price range should stay close to the current. The base Nexo Blue should again be available from about $58, 735. The Limited version should raise the stake to $62, 100.