Hyundai Elexio: A More Accessible Electric SUV Arrives Down Under
Hyundai Australia is set to expand its all-electric Elexio SUV lineup with a more budget-friendly entry-level model, slated to hit dealerships in the second quarter of this year, between April and June. This new variant will slot in below the existing Elexio Elite, which is arriving in showrooms now.
The upcoming base model Elexio will be priced from $58,990 before on-road costs. This represents a $3000 saving compared to the more premium Elite variant. It’s worth noting that the Elite is currently available with a drive-away launch offer of $59,990, but this special pricing concludes on March 31, 2026, after which it will revert to its standard price of $61,990 plus on-road costs. While not yet officially confirmed, industry insiders suggest that Hyundai Australia may also introduce a drive-away pricing strategy for the new base Elexio, potentially making it a consistent nationwide offer.
Under the bonnet – or rather, beneath the floor – the new Elexio shares its core electric powertrain with the Elite. It’s equipped with a 160kW front-mounted electric motor and a substantial 88.1kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack. This setup not only delivers ample power but also contributes to impressive driving range. Interestingly, the base Elexio is tipped to boast a slightly superior WLTP driving range of 562km, compared to the Elite’s 546km. This marginal advantage is attributed to its smaller 18-inch alloy wheel package, whereas the Elite sports larger 20-inch wheels.
What Sets the Elexio Apart?
To achieve its more accessible price point, the entry-level Elexio will forgo some of the luxury and convenience features found in the Elite model. Key omissions include:
- 20-inch alloy wheels
- Leather-appointed seats
- Heated front seats
- Ventilated front seats
- Heated steering wheel
- Hands-free power tailgate
- Two wireless charging pads
- 14-way power adjustable driver’s seat
- 4-way power adjustable passenger seat
- Integrated Memory Seat (IMS) function
Standard Features: Still Packed with Value
Despite the removal of some premium amenities, the 2026 Hyundai Elexio will still come remarkably well-equipped, offering a compelling package for its price. Key highlights of the standard equipment list include:
- Long Range 88.1kWh Battery: Providing substantial electric range for everyday driving and longer journeys.
- Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) Capability: Allowing you to power external devices and appliances using the car’s battery.
- Fast Charging: Capable of charging from 10 to 80 per cent in approximately 38 minutes using a 150kW DC fast charger.
- Paddle Shifters: For adjusting regenerative braking levels, enhancing driving control and efficiency.
- 18-inch Alloy Wheels: Contributing to the vehicle’s slightly extended driving range.
- Comprehensive Safety: Including 9 airbags (front, front and rear side, curtain, front-centre), tyre mobility kit, LED projector beam headlights, LED tail lights, and rain-sensing wipers.
- Comfortable Interior: Featuring cloth upholstery, a rear lower drawer compartment, a 6-way power adjustable driver’s seat, one wireless phone charging pad, 40:60-split folding rear seats, LED interior lights, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
- Advanced Technology: A large 27-inch Connect-C System infotainment display, Hyundai Bluelink connected services, Digital Key 2 Touch functionality, a Head-Up Display (HUD), an electrochromic interior mirror, and Remote Smart Parking Assist.
A Suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems
Beyond the standard comfort and convenience features, the Elexio will come loaded with a comprehensive suite of active safety and driver assistance technologies designed to enhance safety and reduce driver fatigue. This extensive list includes:
- Adaptive cruise control with stop/go functionality
- Autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection
- Junction turning and crossing assist
- Blind-spot assist and Blind-Spot View Monitor
- Driver attention warning
- Highway Driving Assist 2
- Intelligent Speed Limit Assist
- Lane Following Assist 2 (lane centring)
- Lane-keep assist with road-edge detection
- Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist (covering forward, side, and reverse manoeuvres)
- Rear occupant alert (sensor-based)
- Rear cross-traffic assist
- Safe exit assist
- Surround-view camera system
- Tyre pressure monitoring
Colour Options and Pricing Structure
When it comes to exterior styling, the new base Elexio will be available in the same five appealing colour options as the Elite model:
- Crystal White
- Phantom Black
- Dragon Red
- Pebble Blue
- Medium Grey
For those opting for any of the premium paint finishes (all colours except Crystal White), there will be an additional charge of $750.
Hyundai Australia is aiming to make electric SUV ownership more accessible with this new Elexio variant, providing a strong balance of range, technology, and safety at a more competitive price point. Further details will be released closer to the official launch in the second quarter.
Pricing Summary:
| Model | Price Before On-Road Costs | Drive-Away Pricing |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 Hyundai Elexio | $58,990 | – |
| 2026 Hyundai Elexio Elite | $61,990* | $59,990** |
- Indicative pricing from the second quarter of 2026.
** This special drive-away price is valid until March 31, 2026.
