The 2023 Hyundai NEXO Blue achieves an EPA-estimated 61 MPG combined, a phenomenal figure that places it in a unique category: hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. This isn’t about squeezing extra mileage from gasoline. It’s about nearly eliminating tailpipe emissions altogether while offering a refueling experience that mimics a conventional gasoline car, all for a demographic prioritizing lower fuel costs.

City and highway performance

The NEXO Blue’s fuel cell powertrain excels in city driving, achieving an impressive 65 MPG. This performance stems from the nature of fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs). Its electric motors provide instant torque, and regenerative braking captures energy during deceleration, further boosting efficiency around town. The highway MPG rating isn’t far behind at 58 MPG, demonstrating that the NEXO remains efficient even at higher speeds. Unlike some electric vehicles that see a significant drop-off in range on the highway, the NEXO maintains a respectable level of efficiency, making it suitable for longer commutes.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Hyundai NEXO Blue at $861. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average price of hydrogen at the time of calculation. While hydrogen prices fluctuate considerably depending on your location and availability of fueling stations, this estimate provides a baseline for understanding the potential cost of ownership. Remember that hydrogen prices can vary widely, so it is important to research the prices in your area to get a realistic estimate.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA’s 61 MPG combined rating is attainable under ideal conditions, real-world fuel economy can vary depending on driving habits, traffic conditions, and weather. Aggressive acceleration and frequent hard braking will reduce efficiency. Extreme temperatures can also impact the car’s performance, as maintaining optimal battery temperature requires energy. However, even under less-than-perfect conditions, NEXO owners consistently report impressive fuel economy, often meeting or exceeding the EPA estimates.

People choosing the NEXO understand that they are not just focusing on the lowest bottom line cost, they are investing in a cleaner driving experience. These drivers prioritize environmental responsibility and are willing to accept the current limitations of hydrogen infrastructure in exchange for zero-emission driving.

How it compares

The NEXO’s primary competitor is the Toyota Mirai. Both are hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, but their fuel economy numbers differ slightly. The 2023 Toyota Mirai XLE achieves an EPA-estimated 76 MPG combined, while the Limited trim sees 65 MPG combined. While those numbers technically outpace the NEXO, the real-world differences are often negligible. Buyers considering these vehicles are more concerned with hydrogen availability, infrastructure, and overall driving experience than a few MPG here or there.

The comparison to battery electric vehicles is more nuanced. A Tesla Model 3, for example, offers MPGe ratings ranging from 123 to 132 depending on the trim. The NEXO can be refueled in about five minutes, comparable to gasoline, whereas fully charging the Tesla takes considerably longer. For those prioritizing rapid refueling, the NEXO presents an advantage. The key factor is access to hydrogen fueling stations; if the fueling infrastructure is inadequate, an electric vehicle might be the more practical choice.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and steady speed are crucial for maximizing the NEXO’s efficiency. Avoid aggressive driving habits, such as sudden acceleration and hard braking, as these actions consume more hydrogen and reduce your overall range. Anticipating traffic patterns and maintaining a smooth driving style can significantly improve fuel economy.

Make sure to check your tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and reduces fuel efficiency. Keeping your tires properly inflated not only improves fuel economy, it enhances handling and prolongs tire life. Consult your owner’s manual for the recommended tire pressure.

Minimize the use of auxiliary systems, such as air conditioning and heating, as these systems can draw significant power from the fuel cell. Pre-conditioning the cabin while the vehicle is plugged in at a hydrogen station can help reduce the energy required to heat or cool the vehicle while driving. Consider using seat heaters, which use less energy than the cabin heater, on cooler days.

Check your route and plan your trips carefully. Use navigation apps to find the most efficient route and avoid congested areas. Idling in traffic consumes hydrogen without covering any distance, so choosing routes with fewer stops and starts will help maximize your car’s fuel economy. The Hyundai’s navigation system provides valuable information on hydrogen fueling stations, allowing you to plan your route for optimal fuel up opportunities.

Take advantage of regenerative braking. This system captures energy when you decelerate and uses it to recharge the battery, extending your range. By lifting off the accelerator pedal gradually and anticipating stops, you can maximize the amount of energy recovered through regenerative braking. This feature is particularly effective in city driving with frequent stops and starts. Remember to monitor all Hyundai fuel economy data for comparison, and check the NEXO MPG across all years for long-term trends.