The hydrogen-fueled Nexo is Hyundai’s eco-friendly flagship, packed with state-of-the-art tech. Its 95-kW fuel cell and 40-kW battery power an electric motor that makes 291 lb-ft of torque. Although the crossover is slow (a claimed zero to 60 mph in 9.5 seconds), its estimated range is an impressive 370 miles. However, the Nexo will be sold only in California when it launches in late 2018. High-tech features include advanced blind-spot monitoring, semi-autonomous assists, and remote parking.
Pros Quiet operation, usable range, but . . .
Cons . . . nowhere to go because there is no hydrogen refueling infrastructure in the U.S., still expensive technology.
All-new five-passenger hydrogen fuel cell SUV.The 2019 Hyundai Nexo is a five-passenger SUV that uses a hydrogen fuel cell to charge a 135 kW series of lithium-ion polymer batteries. These batteries power a single electric motor (161 horsepower, 291 pound-feet of torque) that drives the front wheels.
Pros Promises 350-plus miles of range from a five-minute hydrogen fill-up Smooth, silent and torquey drive qualities of an electric vehicle SUV-like body style
Cons Only available in select areas of California Hydrogen availability is limited
The 2020 Kia Niro EV comes with a 5 yr./ 60000 mi. basic warranty, a 5 yr./ 60000 mi. roadside warranty, and a 10 yr./ 100000 mi. powertrain warranty.Redesigned headlights.EX trim level gets standard 8-inch touchscreen.EX Premium trim now includes 10.25-inch touchscreen.
Pros Lots of standard safety features Plenty of driving range for an affordable EV Fun to drive with zippy acceleration and surprisingly decent handling Clever interior storage options
Cons All-wheel drive isn't available despite crossover styling Leather upholstery is a little stiff
The Kia Niro EV gets more screen space for 2020, and it remains one of the roomiest of the affordable long-range electric vehicles.
Pros Roomy interior Simple, intuitive interface Great infotainment systems Packed with features
Cons Not a $45,000 car in the up-close details Busy ride motions Benchlike front seats Odd center console layout
The 2020 Kia Niro's #6 ranking is based on its score within the Hybrid and Electric SUVs category. It was a finalist for our 2020 Best Hybrid or Electric SUV for the Money award. Currently the Kia Niro has a score of 7.4 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 18 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Excellent fuel economy Spacious interior when compared with subcompact SUVs Intuitive infotainment system
Cons Not available with all-wheel drive Interior not as upscale as rivals’ Unimpressive acceleration
