Used 2023 Hyundai NEXO

Sure, that’s quite a price for a compact SUV, even one that doesn’t use gasoline. But hydrogen fuel cell technology has a special advantage over battery-powered electric vehicles — it takes less time to refill hydrogen tanks than it does to recharge. About five minutes, as opposed to around 20 minutes on a DC fast charger.

This might be academic for those who plug in their electric cars overnight, but there may be others who need to park their vehicles on the street, or don’t have a charger in the parking structure of their apartment block. But they still want to stop using gasoline.

For Californians within reach of the relatively few places selling hydrogen, a fuel cell vehicle (FCV, or sometimes called FCEV for fuel cell electric vehicle) could be the answer. This is the only state where driving a hydrogen-powered vehicle is possible, because it’s almost impossible to find hydrogen fuel anywhere else in the country.

Most stations are clustered around the Bay Area and the greater Los Angeles/Orange County region. But a maximum range of 380 miles enables a Nexo to drive between the two.

Another FCV perk is that Hyundai provides free hydrogen for the first three years or $15,000, whichever happens first. Plus 21 days of free car rental (seven days per year), for those occasions when an FCV isn’t feasible.

The California Clean Vehicle Rebate program is currently giving up to $4,500 to anyone who buys or leases a new Nexo. And an FCV means solo use of the HOV (carpool) lane. At the time of compiling this review, the rules on federal tax credits were changing, but it also looks like leasing a Nexo might result in said credit.

Putting all this stuff to one side for a moment, the Nexo is a well-equipped, well-executed compact SUV that’s a pleasure to drive.

Drive modes are Comfort, Eco, and Eco+, so that’s a clear indication of the 2023 Nexo’s priorities. Other companies and cars are plugging into the performance possibilities of electric propulsion, but the hydrogen fuel cell is more about efficiency and economy.

That’s fine. After all, if the Nexo is going to be driven around Los Angeles or San Francisco, top speed is irrelevant. For those who crave the immediate acceleration usually associated with electric vehicles, though, perhaps a Tesla or Chevrolet Bolt EV would be more suitable.

The Nexo Blue trim is capable of covering 380 miles between refills, but the better-equipped Limited trim is heavier and is estimated to achieve 354 miles. Either way, the Hyundai Nexo is easy to drive and maneuver, and the lack of a combustion engine means quiet progress.

Both trims of the 2023 Nexo SUV have seating surfaces of vegan-friendly simulated leather. We just hope vegans don’t mind holding a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Color choices for the interior are Stone Gray or Meteor Blue.

A driver information display/instrument cluster, measuring 10.25 inches on the diagonal, adds to the overall futuristic look of the cabin and pairs well with the generously sized 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen.

The center console is especially remarkable, since it’s a dual-level design. The top level has all the controls and buttons — lots of them, including buttons for the transmission — the lower level is a space to stash a smartphone.

Occupant space is good for a compact crossover. Rear legroom is a generous 38.6 inches. Cargo volume expands from 29.6 cubic feet behind the 60/40 split/folding rear seats to 56.5 cubic feet when they’re down.

Dual-zone automatic climate control
Just because the 2023 Nexo is a rarity, that doesn’t mean it’s any less well equipped than any other Hyundai. As illustrated by dual-zone climate control included as a standard feature.

Smart cruise control
Yet another standard item. It adjusts speed automatically, keeping a safe distance to the vehicle ahead, then goes back up to the preset speed when conditions allow.

Heated front seats
Also standard. Believe it or not, heated seats can be most welcome in California, especially the northern part of the state.

Ventilated front seats
Admittedly, these will be more welcome in the sweltering Southern Californian summers. Standard in the Limited trim.

Remote Smart Parking Assist
Drivers can stand outside the Nexo and inch it into or out of a parking space using buttons on the key fob. The car will make steering corrections if necessary and stop if there’s an object in the way. Another Limited feature.

Wide sunroof
Standard in the Limited model, this powered sunroof helps make the cabin feel open and airy.

An electric motor drives the 2023 Nexo compact SUV with 161 horsepower and 291 lb-ft of torque. Electricity is created by the onboard hydrogen fuel cell. The only thing to come out of the tailpipe is water, a byproduct of the chemical reaction that happens when hydrogen meets the fuel cell.

The main product of the reaction is electricity. Any that isn’t used right away is stored in a small lithium-ion polymer battery until needed. This battery also stores captured brake energy from regeneration.

Front-wheel drive is the sole configuration.

Fuel cell stack/permanent magnet electric motor
161 horsepower
291 lb-ft of torque
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 65/58 MPGe (Blue), 59/54 MPGe (Limited)
EPA-estimated range: 380 miles range (Blue), 354 miles (Limited)

More Hyundai Nexo fuel economy information is available on the EPA’s website.

5-Year/60,000-Mile Warranty

Hyundai’s warranties are among the best. The new-vehicle warranty is for five years or 60,000 miles, whichever happens first. The powertrain and battery of the 2023 Nexo are covered for 10 years or 100,000 miles.