The 2021 Hyundai Nexo Blue achieves 61 MPG combined. This figure stands out because, unlike most crossovers that prioritize practicality and cargo space over fuel efficiency, the Nexo runs on hydrogen. It emits only water vapor as it drives.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Nexo Blue achieves 65 MPG in the city and 58 MPG on the highway. Regenerative braking and the efficiency of electric motors at lower speeds make electric vehicles (and hydrogen fuel cell equivalents) well-suited to stop-and-go driving. The Nexo’s energy recapture allows it to exceed its highway rating in city driving. Buyers who focus on city commuting will likely find these EPA numbers accurate.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Hyundai Nexo Blue at $861. This assumes 15,000 miles driven per year and uses the national average hydrogen price at the time of calculation. Fuel costs will vary by location and driving habits. Drivers who drive fewer miles will spend less, and heavy-footed drivers may deplete hydrogen faster. Because hydrogen fueling infrastructure is currently limited to California for retail customers, the price is influenced by state-specific factors.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates provide a starting point, but real-world fuel economy varies. Due to hydrogen’s limited availability, real-world results can vary a bit more than with gasoline cars. Colder climates may lead to higher hydrogen consumption due to the energy needed to maintain optimal fuel cell operating temperatures. Aggressive acceleration and high-speed driving will also reduce range and efficiency. Still, the Nexo beats most gasoline-powered SUVs, though maybe not every plug-in hybrid.

How it compares

The 2021 Hyundai Nexo Blue excels in fuel economy among crossovers. The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, a popular hybrid SUV, achieves 40 MPG combined. Even the RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid only manages 38 MPG combined when operating as a hybrid. The Nexo also surpasses other fuel cell vehicles. The Toyota Mirai achieves 74 MPG combined on its XLE trim, but it’s a sedan. Shoppers who need the elevated driving position and cargo space of an SUV will find the Nexo’s efficiency unmatched.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key. Avoid aggressive starts and maintain consistent speeds. The electric motor delivers instant torque, but using it sparingly extends driving range. Take advantage of regenerative braking, allowing the car to slow down gradually.

Preconditioning the cabin temperature while the Nexo is plugged in helps conserve energy on the road. This heats or cools the interior using grid power instead of the hydrogen fuel cell, which is especially important in colder months when heating the cabin can significantly impact range.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Excess cargo strains the powertrain, reducing fuel economy. Remove non-essential items from the trunk to lighten the load and improve efficiency.

Tire pressure is important for fuel economy. Inflate tires to the recommended pressure on the doorjamb sticker. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance which creates drag, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel.

Regularly check and clean the Nexo’s air filter. A clean filter ensures optimal airflow to the fuel cell, promoting efficient hydrogen consumption. A clogged or dirty air filter can restrict airflow, reducing system efficiency and worsening fuel economy ratings when compared to all Hyundai fuel economy data. For more specific information about the different model years of the Hyundai Nexo, check NEXO MPG across all years.