2026 Hyundai Elexio Elite

2026 Hyundai Elexio Elite.

The 2026 Hyundai Elexio brings a distinctly different personality to the growing electric SUV market. Sharing its underlying platform with the Kia EV5, it occupies a useful middle ground in Hyundai’s electric range: larger and more practical than the Kona Electric, while broadly matching the dimensions of the Tucson. Its approachable exterior avoids the overtly futuristic styling associated with some EVs, but still includes thoughtful aerodynamic details such as retractable door handles and active front flaps designed to improve cooling efficiency.

Power comes from a single 160kW electric motor driving the front wheels, with 310Nm available for smooth, immediate acceleration. The Elexio is not presented as a performance-focused SUV, and its output is better suited to relaxed urban and freeway driving than enthusiastic cornering. In everyday use, however, the responsive power delivery provides ample ability to keep pace with traffic. The regenerative braking system is a particular strength, with an adaptive Auto setting that can allow the vehicle to coast when the road is clear or slow it when approaching slower traffic. Paddle controls also allow the driver to adjust the regeneration manually.

An 88.1kWh lithium-iron-phosphate battery is standard, and the Elite is quoted at 546km on the WLTP cycle. Testing indicated energy consumption close to Hyundai’s stated figure, suggesting the published range is reasonably representative in suitable conditions. Actual distance between charges will still vary with driving style, weather, traffic and road speed, as it does with any electric vehicle.

Inside, the Elexio is defined by an unusual dashboard layout. Its large 27-inch display stretches from the passenger side towards the centre of the cabin, while the driver receives key information through a head-up display. A secondary driver-focused section of the main screen provides speed, vehicle information and infotainment shortcuts. The arrangement is unconventional, but it creates space for passenger-oriented functions including built-in arcade games and relaxing display themes, features that are intended to be used while stationary, such as during charging stops.

The cabin’s more conventional strengths are its space and equipment. Both seating rows offer generous room, while the floating centre console creates useful storage below. Heated and ventilated front seats, 14-way driver adjustment, a heated steering wheel, dual wireless charging pads and a smart power tailgate add everyday convenience. The 506-litre boot provides practical luggage capacity and includes a three-pin power outlet, extending the vehicle’s usefulness beyond simple passenger transport. Wireless Apple CarPlay and over-the-air software updates support a more connected ownership experience, while Hyundai’s Bluelink services allow selected vehicle functions to be managed through a smartphone.

On the road, the Elexio benefits from suspension and steering tuning developed for Australian conditions. The ride is generally compliant over urban imperfections, and the steering is light enough to make the SUV easy to manoeuvre in confined streets. It feels more composed through corners than its closely related Kia counterpart, although sharper mid-corner bumps can make themselves known on uneven roads. Lane Following Assist 2 is also calibrated to provide steady assistance without dominating the driving experience.

The Elexio’s strongest case is therefore its combination of usable electric range, generous cabin space and carefully considered day-to-day comfort. Its quiet, smooth powertrain and intuitive energy-management system suit regular city driving, while its size and boot capacity make it more versatile than a small electric crossover. The main consideration is the unconventional dashboard and screen arrangement, which will appeal to some drivers but may take time to become familiar to others.

• 88.1kWh LFP battery
• 160kW electric motor with 310Nm
• Front-wheel drive
• 546km claimed WLTP range
• 27-inch touchscreen and head-up display
• 506-litre boot with three-pin power outlet
• Heated and ventilated front seats
• Over-the-air software updates and connected vehicle services

Other highlights include Condition: New; Interior colour: White leather-appointed upholstery.