2020 Hyundai NEXO
2020 Hyundai Nexo Review
- Promises 350-plus miles of range from a five-minute hydrogen fill-up
- Smooth, silent and torquey drive qualities of an electric vehicle
- SUV-like body style
- Only available in select areas of California
- Hydrogen availability is limited
- A cargo cover and tinted rear glass are now standard on base model
- Automatic wipers added to Limited trim level
- Part of the first Hyundai Nexo generation introduced for 2019
While automakers are generally betting big on electric vehicles, EVs do have their limitations. The biggest challenge is convenience. If you don't have a charging station at home, you have to find a public station and wait while your car recharges. Several automakers are eyeing hydrogen as a gasoline replacement, and the 2020 Hyundai Nexo is the latest fuel cell vehicle to enter the fray.
The Hyundai Nexo is a small crossover that slots between the Hyundai Tucson and Santa Fe in terms of size. The SUV-like layout helps mitigate the cargo storage issue that limits the appeal of its two main hydrogen-powered competitors, the Honda Clarity and Toyota Mirai. Both are sedans and lose a lot of cargo space because of their hydrogen fuel tanks. The Nexo also has an elevated ride height that might appeal to you if you like SUVs.
Our main issues with Nexo relate more the limitations of the hydrogen network itself. In our testing of both the Clarity and the Mirai, we've experienced our share of setbacks that make us question the practicality of a hydrogen car at this time. The limited number of fueling stations means it's impossible to take an extended road trip from Los Angeles to anywhere except the Bay Area or San Diego. We've also seen stations run out of fuel, so you'll have to live near more than one station in case there's a hiccup in the pipeline.
Overall, we like the Nexo and appreciate its enhanced practicality compared to the Clarity and Mirai. But the nascent nature of the hydrogen infrastructure limits the Nexo's appeal to a niche audience.
Which NEXO does Edmunds recommend?
Hyundai NEXO models
The 2020 Hyundai Nexo is a five-passenger crossover SUV that uses a hydrogen fuel cell for power. There are two trim levels: the base Blue model can travel up to 380 miles before its hydrogen tank needs to be refilled, while the top-trim Limited can go 354 miles. Standard features include:
2020 Hyundai NEXO pricing
in Ashburn, VA
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Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2020 Hyundai NEXO.
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Features & Specs
- Base MSRP
- $58,735
- MPG & Fuel
- 65 City / 58 Hwy / 61 Combined
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 41.4 gal. capacity
- Seating
- 5 seats
- Drivetrain
- Type: front wheel drive
- Transmission: 1-speed direct drive
- Engine
- N/A cylinder
- Horsepower: N/A
- Torque: N/A
- Basic Warranty
- 5 yr./ 60000 mi.
- Dimensions
- Length: 183.9 in. / Height: 64.2 in. / Width: 73.2 in.
- Curb Weight: 3990 lbs.
- Cargo Capacity, All Seats In Place: 29.6 cu.ft.
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Safety
Our experts’ favorite NEXO safety features:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Alerts if a front collision is imminent and applies the brakes if the driver doesn't react in time.
- Blind-Spot View Monitor
- Projects a camera view down the right side of the vehicle when the turn signal is activated.
- Lane Following Assist
- Warns if the vehicle is drifting out of its lane and corrects the steering to maintain its position.
Hyundai Nexo vs. the competition
2020 Hyundai Nexo
2019 Toyota Mirai
Hyundai Nexo vs. Toyota Mirai
Aside from meager cabin and trunk storage, the Toyota Mirai is a well-rounded and competent hydrogen-powered sedan. Comfortable and quiet, the Mirai is easy to live with day to day. If the exterior is a little too polarizing for your tastes, the Mirai will be fully redesigned for 2021 and is much more traditionally styled. If you'd like to know more about the current Mirai, be sure to read our long-term test of a 2016 Mirai.
Hyundai Nexo vs. Honda Clarity
The Honda Clarity is the third and final hydrogen-run fuel cell vehicle on the market. We like the Clarity's roomy cabin and upscale materials. We're less impressed with its floaty ride and unappealing infotainment system. As a crossover, the Nexo offers much more cargo space than either the Mirai or Clarity can manage. If you'd like to learn more about the Clarity fuel cell, be sure to read our 36-month test of a 2017 Honda Clarity.
Hyundai Nexo vs. Tesla Model Y
The Tesla Model Y doesn't run on hydrogen, but as an electric vehicle, it still earns you eco cred. The Model Y's spacious interior renders it eminently practical, and its emphasis on performance makes it fun to drive too. Since it's an EV, you also don't have to worry about hydrogen's supply chain issues. Tesla's vehicles are much more widely available too. For more about the Model Y, check out our long-term test of a Model YÂ Performance.
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FAQ
Is the Hyundai NEXO a good car?
What's new in the 2020 Hyundai NEXO?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2020 Hyundai NEXO:
- A cargo cover and tinted rear glass are now standard on base model
- Automatic wipers added to Limited trim level
- Part of the first Hyundai Nexo generation introduced for 2019
Is the Hyundai NEXO reliable?
Is the 2020 Hyundai NEXO a good car?
How much should I pay for a 2020 Hyundai NEXO?
The least-expensive 2020 Hyundai NEXO is the 2020 Hyundai NEXO Blue 4dr SUV (electric (fuel cell) DD). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $58,735.
Other versions include:
- Limited 4dr SUV (electric (fuel cell) DD) which starts at $62,185
- Blue 4dr SUV (electric (fuel cell) DD) which starts at $58,735