2025 Hyundai Nexo Review
The Hyundai Nexo has returned with a completely new design and an improved hydrogen fuel cell system. For years, people have seen the old Nexo and many have associated hydrogen cars with inconvenience and a negative image. Hyundai seems to have rebuilt the Nexo to change that perception and introduce a fresh identity.
This article organises the full video caption into a clean, informative structure to help you understand what the new Nexo offers.
Exterior Design The Big Transformation
When you first see the new Hyundai Nexo, the design looks different enough to make you ask why it is still called Nexo at all. Hyundai has taken a bold approach because the old Nexo design has been around for a long time and the brand clearly wanted to remove the stale and negative impression of hydrogen cars.
The design splits opinions.
Some people say if it looks like this, they would buy it. Others feel the styling is too unique to accept. But in person, the quality stands out and the detailing makes you appreciate it more.
Key Exterior Highlights
Panels and creases show precise craftsmanship.
The new Copper Pearl paint looks beige from far but shows copper metallic flakes in sunlight.
A unique band that wraps around the body makes the car look like a gift ribbon.
Rear lamps use square patterns inspired by Korean Hanok doors.
Sequential turn indicators and a welcome light animation with individually programmed LEDs.
Front DRLs are set in four blocks with a hidden second DRL strip that only lights up in specific situations.
Hydrogen Purge and Water Release
The car stores water and releases it at once instead of dripping while driving. Although the water is clean, it is not something you should drink.
Practical Exterior Touches
Large single-piece door design for a cleaner look.
Hydrogen refueling remains non self-service, and stations are not open 24 hours.
Door opens almost 90 degrees which is convenient for loading big items.
Charging Port Design
The charging port uses a push to pop mechanism that still works even if the battery is dead. The left and right sides of the car are not symmetrical because of the functional design of the port and the way it pops out when frozen.
Front Cabin and Interior Design
The interior has thoughtful storage ideas and a practical layout. Both front passengers get separate wireless charging pads, which is rare.
Practical Front Cabin Features
Dual wireless chargers
Large under storage space below the center console
Internal USB passthrough system for cables
Multiple storage cubbies
Simple physical steering wheel buttons
Large infotainment screen with familiar Hyundai UI
Downsides
Thick center console reduces the lower opening space.
Door pockets are smaller than older Hyundai models.
Black interior option feels a bit dull.
Rear Seat Comfort
The hydrogen layout allows the floor to stay low, so your legs rest naturally without the raised EV floor feeling. Rear seat comfort is quite good.
Rear Seat Features
Reclining seatback
Ventilated and heated rear seats
100W charging port
V2L outlet at the bottom
Vision roof which is a fixed glass roof without heat protection coating
The rear experience is good, but considering the price, it could have been even better.
Boot Space and Practicality
The new Nexo has a significantly larger trunk. It can now fit four golf bags vertically and the floor is completely flat if you sit inside the trunk.
Boot Practicality Points
60:40 split seats instead of 40:20:40.
Fire extinguisher is included due to regulations.
Missing luggage cover even though the car costs 88 million won (58 million won after subsidy).
Accessory mounting points are available for items like lights and umbrellas.
No 12V socket inside the trunk which limits interior power usage.
External V2L outlet is available outside the car.
Safety and Hydrogen Myths
Hydrogen tanks are extremely strong. They are tested with fire, bullets and high pressure. In many ways, hydrogen is safer than gasoline. Hyundai has strong safety regulations for hydrogen systems.
Who Should Buy the Hyundai Nexo
Suitable For
Drivers who travel long distances
People who value quietness and comfort
Those who have hydrogen stations near home or office
Buyers who want an eco-friendly option but dislike EV charging
Not Suitable For
People with no nearby hydrogen stations
Those who travel at night often
Performance focused drivers
Anyone needing reliable long-distance travel without worrying about station availability
Final Verdict
The new Hyundai Nexo is a high-quality, refined and unique SUV. The design has many interesting details. The interior is practical. The ride is stable and quiet. As a car, it is excellent. The only real limitation is hydrogen infrastructure. If your lifestyle fits hydrogen availability, the Nexo will feel like a premium and peaceful daily companion. If not, it becomes difficult to live with.
For now, it is a conditional recommendation. But when hydrogen networks expand, this Nexo will be ready to shine even more.
Hyundai Nexo Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Hyundai change the Nexo design?
Hyundai wanted to move away from the old Nexo’s image and refresh how people see hydrogen cars. The new design removes the negative impressions that built up over the years and brings a cleaner, more premium look with better craftsmanship.
Why do people say the Hyundai Nexo design splits opinions?
Some buyers love the unique lines, the Copper Pearl color, and the ribbon-like body band. Others feel the design is too unusual. In person, the car’s detailing and build quality impress most people, even those unsure about the design at first glance.
What is special about the Copper Pearl color on the Nexo?
The Copper Pearl paint looks beige from far away, but up close it shows copper-colored flakes that shine in sunlight. It is one of the small design elements that stands out only when you see the car in person.
How do the Hyundai Nexo rear lamps work?
The rear lamps use a pattern inspired by Korean Hanok doors. Tiny LEDs inside the lamp glow individually during welcome lighting and braking. The indicators also sweep in a smooth sequence for a modern look.
Does the Hyundai Nexo release water while driving?
In older hydrogen cars, water dripped continuously. The new Nexo stores the water and releases it all at once. The water is technically clean, but it is not recommended to drink it.
Is hydrogen refueling convenient on the Nexo?
Hydrogen refueling is not self-service yet. Most stations do not operate 24 hours and sometimes hydrogen supply runs out. Owners must plan their refueling according to station hours and availability.
How big is the Hyundai Nexo trunk?
The trunk is large enough to load four golf bags vertically. The floor is flat and there is additional storage under the panel. However, it only offers a 60:40 seat split and Hyundai does not provide a luggage cover from the factory.
Does the Nexo support V2L for powering devices?
Yes, the Nexo has an external V2L outlet that can power small appliances during camping or outdoor use. However, it does not have an interior 12V socket in the trunk area.
What makes the rear seats comfortable in a hydrogen car?
The hydrogen layout allows the floor to stay low, so the rear seat has a natural seating position with good thigh support. The rear seats also offer ventilation, heating, a reclining function, and a 100W charging port with V2L.
What are the unique interior features in the front cabin?
The Nexo has dual wireless chargers, large storage areas under the console, passthrough USB routing, and a practical layout. The infotainment system uses familiar Hyundai UI, and physical steering buttons provide easier control than touch-type panels.
How does the Hyundai Nexo drive compared to an EV?
The Nexo drives quietly with gentle acceleration. It feels stable due to hydrogen tanks placed low in the chassis. Regenerative braking is mild and more natural compared to some EVs, making it feel similar to a petrol SUV in everyday use.
What is the real range of the Hyundai Nexo?
The displayed range is around 578 km, and a completely full tank can reach up to 720 km. High speeds reduce efficiency, while city driving offers excellent hydrogen consumption.
Is hydrogen safe in the Hyundai Nexo?
Hydrogen tanks are extremely strong and tested for fire, bullets, and extreme pressure. In many cases, hydrogen systems are safer than gasoline. The fuel cell also produces waste heat that helps cabin heating in winter without a major range drop.
Who is the Hyundai Nexo suitable for?
The Nexo is ideal for people who drive long distances, prefer a quiet and comfortable SUV, and have access to hydrogen stations near home and work. It is not ideal for buyers who live far from stations, refuel at night, or want high performance.
