Beijing Hyundai unveiled its first all-electric SUV — the Hyundai ELEXIO — back in June. While the exterior was fully shown at launch, one major detail was left under wraps: the interior. Now, with the cabin officially revealed, we can finally take a closer look at Hyundai’s EV ambitions for the Chinese market.
Minimalist Interior with Futuristic Touches
Hyundai has opted for a clean, minimalist aesthetic inside the ELEXIO, reflecting the vehicle’s forward-looking identity. The dashboard is dominated by a full-width chrome accent strip, flanked by dual-tone leather materials that lend visual texture and premium appeal.
The centerpiece is a stunning 27-inch 4K ultra-clear display, stretching across the central infotainment area and passenger side. This expansive screen reinforces the ELEXIO’s tech-first approach, serving both function and form.
In a move echoing premium Chinese EV brands like Li Auto, the ELEXIO ditches a traditional instrument cluster. Instead, a compact digital readout sits in front of the driver, likely supported by a head-up display for essential driving information — a layout that underscores Hyundai’s shift toward digital minimalism.
Practical Touches and Clever Storage
Hyundai has clearly considered real-world usability, equipping the ELEXIO with a thoughtfully designed center console. Key features include:
- Dual expandable cupholders
- A covered sliding storage compartment
- Dual wireless charging pads for the front seats
- A rear-seat storage box for passenger convenience
These practical elements add to the ELEXIO’s family-friendly appeal, showing that the brand is as focused on day-to-day functionality as it is on style and innovation.
Youthful Design with a Premium-Lite Feel
Two-tone door trims and a cohesive interior palette lend the cabin a modern and youthful vibe. While the overall design prioritizes space and simplicity, it leans slightly toward practicality over outright luxury — a likely tradeoff to keep pricing competitive in China’s crowded EV market.
Bold Exterior Styling with Retro-Futuristic Cues
Externally, the ELEXIO embraces a distinctly futuristic look. The front end features a clean, closed-off grille — typical of EVs — flanked by slim, matrix-style LED headlights connected by a full-width light bar. Sculpted bodywork and segmented surface detailing give the SUV strong visual character.
Other notable design cues include:
- Blacked-out window surrounds and mirror caps
- A sharply angled triangular D-pillar with retro inspiration
- A wraparound rear light bar that integrates with the D-pillar elements
The end result is a confident, modern shape that blends high-tech appeal with a dash of nostalgia.
Two Powertrain Options: Efficiency or Performance
Under the skin, the Hyundai ELEXIO will be offered in two configurations:
- Single-motor variant: Produces up to 160 kW of power
- Dual-motor AWD variant: Adds a rear motor rated at 73 kW, boosting traction and performance
This dual offering allows buyers to choose between efficiency-focused urban mobility or enhanced all-weather confidence.
Final Verdict: Hyundai’s Comeback EV for China?
The Hyundai ELEXIO shapes up as a promising contender in China’s fiercely competitive EV segment. Its blend of digital-forward design, practical features, and a bold exterior give it strong showroom appeal. But the real challenge lies in pricing — Hyundai must get aggressive if it hopes to recapture market share lost to homegrown EV brands.
With a full launch scheduled for September 2025, the ELEXIO could very well mark the beginning of Hyundai’s electric resurgence in China — provided it hits the sweet spot between value, tech, and trust.