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2019 Hyundai NEXO: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2019 Hyundai NEXO is an all-new, first-generation hydrogen-fuel-cell SUV and Hyundai’s replacement for the Tucson Fuel Cell. Its dedicated design brings more passenger and cargo room, along with a stronger focus on driver-assistance technology.
About the 2019 Hyundai NEXO
1st generation (FE), first U.S. model year
Hyundai positioned the NEXO as a zero-emission SUV that fits into daily life more easily than many early EVs. Its core draw was combining quick hydrogen refueling with long driving range, while still offering the space, seating, and hatchback usefulness shoppers expect from a compact SUV. In its small fuel-cell field, the NEXO stood out by offering SUV packaging, a modern cabin, and a strong standard safety-tech story instead of a sedan layout.
The 2019 NEXO lineup consists of Blue and Limited trims, both with the same 161-horsepower, front-wheel-drive hydrogen-electric system. Blue emphasizes efficiency with up to 380 miles of EPA-estimated range, while still offering a 12.3-inch touchscreen, smartphone integration, and extensive driver assistance. Limited adds upscale touches such as ventilated front seats, a power sunroof, premium audio, and a 360-degree camera.
What changed, by category
Structural
The NEXO uses a clean-sheet, dedicated SUV design rather than the Tucson-based layout of the earlier Tucson Fuel Cell. It provides more passenger and cargo room.
Powertrain
Every 2019 NEXO uses a 161-horsepower hydrogen fuel-cell electric system with front-wheel drive. The Blue trim has an EPA-estimated range of up to 380 miles.
Safety
Both trims have forward collision avoidance, lane-keeping and lane-follow assistance, blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, and adaptive cruise control.
Tech
Both trims have a 12.3-inch touchscreen with navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Limited also has a 360-degree camera and upgraded audio system.
2019 Hyundai NEXO specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | Hydrogen Fuel Cell Stack | Hydrogen Fuel Cell Stack |
| Transmission | Single-Speed Reduction Gear | Single-Speed Reduction Gear |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Hydrogen | Hydrogen |
| Trunk/Cargo | 56.5 cu-ft | 56.5 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 38.6 in | 38.6 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Electric Range | 380 | 354 |
| MPGe Combined | 61 | 57 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||
| Alarm System | ||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | ||
| Automatic High Beams | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||
| Park Assist | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| 360 Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| LED Headlights | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| Roof Rails | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||
Frequently asked questions
Is 2019 the first model year for the Hyundai NEXO in the U.S.?
Yes. The 2019 NEXO is the model’s first U.S. model year and the start of its first generation.
What vehicle did the 2019 Hyundai NEXO replace?
The 2019 Hyundai NEXO replaced the Hyundai Tucson Fuel Cell. Unlike that Tucson-based model, the NEXO was designed specifically as a hydrogen-fuel-cell SUV and has more passenger and cargo room.
How far can the 2019 Hyundai NEXO travel on hydrogen?
The 2019 NEXO Blue has an EPA-estimated range of up to 380 miles. The Limited uses the same 161-horsepower hydrogen-electric system, but Blue has the strongest range figure in the lineup.
What is the difference between the 2019 NEXO Blue and Limited?
The 2019 NEXO Blue focuses on maximum range, while Limited adds more comfort and camera technology. Limited has ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, a power sunroof, a hands-free power liftgate, premium audio, and a 360-degree camera.
Does the 2019 Hyundai NEXO have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes. Both 2019 NEXO trims have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto through a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen with navigation.
2019 Hyundai NEXO Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2019 Hyundai NEXO.
4.3
2019 Hyundai NEXO
(20 reviews)