Hyundai Elexio EV Makes Its Australian Debut with Media Drive Event
Hyundai has officially launched its all-electric Elexio medium SUV in the Australian market, showcasing the vehicle during a media drive event from Sydney to Gosford on the New South Wales Central Coast. The journey included a mix of city streets and winding regional roads, with a lunch stop at the Trading Post in Laguna, highlighting the SUV's versatility for urban and rural environments.
Background and Market Positioning
The Elexio is Hyundai's first exported vehicle from its Beijing-Hyundai joint venture, a partnership established in 2002 between South Korea's Hyundai Motor Company and Beijing Automotive Group. Known as the EO in China, the name Elexio—a clever play on "electric"—is reserved exclusively for the Australian market. This model serves as the sister vehicle to the Kia EV5, slotting in size between the Hyundai Kona Electric and the Ioniq 5, offering a new option for eco-conscious drivers.
Pricing and Competition
At launch, the Elexio is available in a single top-spec Elite Variant with an introductory drive-away price of $59,990, which will increase to $61,990 plus on-road costs after March 31. Optional features include Mica premium paint for $650 and a dove grey interior for $295. An entry-grade model is expected to arrive in a few months, priced at $58,990 RRP, likely with a drive-away deal. This positions the Elexio directly against top sellers like the Tesla Model Y (from $58,900 RRP) and makes it pricier than many Chinese imports, such as the BYD Sealion 7 (from $54,990 RRP) and XPeng G6 (from $54,800 RRP).
Technical Specifications and Features
The Elexio is built on Hyundai's E-GMP platform with a 400-volt electrical architecture, which results in slower charging times compared to newer 800-volt systems. Using a 150kW DC fast charger, it takes approximately 38 minutes to go from 10% to 80% charge. However, for AC home charging, this difference is negligible. Key specifications include:
- Front-wheel drive
- BYD liquid-cooled 88kWh LFP battery weighing 573kg
- Range: 546km for Elite, 562km for base model
- Outputs: 160kW and 310Nm
- Energy use: 18.2kWh/100km
- Charging capacity: 130-150kW DC and 10kW AC
- Braked towing capacity: 1250kg
- Cargo area: 506 litres, expandable to 1540L with rear seats down
Notably, the Elexio includes a heat pump that captures waste heat to regulate cabin temperature with minimal impact on driving range. The interior features a minimalist design with an ultra-thin 27-inch panoramic touchscreen, Android Automotive operating system, and a head-up display replacing the traditional instrument cluster. Additional amenities include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a vehicle-to-load power outlet, Bluelink services, Digital Key 2 Touch, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and versatile storage options.
Safety and Driving Experience
The Elexio has earned a five-star ANCAP safety rating, supported by a comprehensive advanced driver assistance system (ADAS). During the media drive, covering about 270km through scenic routes like the Old Pacific Highway, the vehicle demonstrated a locally tuned suspension and steering setup for Australian roads. However, the Elite variant's 20-inch wheels with 255/45 tyres may transmit more road noise and bumps compared to the entry model's 18-inch wheels. The steering can feel light and "snatchy" with lane-assist enabled, and the driver attention warning system may be overly intrusive for some users.
Practicality and User Feedback
Designed as a family car, the Elexio excels in maneuverability, parking ease with a 360-degree camera, and spacious interiors suitable for children or pets. Energy consumption ranged from 17.9 to 19.9kWh/100km during testing, influenced by highway driving and Sport mode usage. The head-up display may pose visibility issues for drivers wearing polarized sunglasses, requiring head tilts or glances at the panoramic screen. Despite minor quirks, the 160kW/310Nm output provides ample power for a mid-size SUV.
Warranty and Servicing Details
Hyundai offers a seven-year unlimited kilometre warranty for the Elexio, contingent on servicing at authorised dealers; otherwise, a standard five-year warranty applies. The high-voltage battery is covered by an eight-year/160,000km warranty. Complimentary roadside assistance is provided for 12 months, renewable with each dealership service. Service plans are set at 24 months/30,000km for $779 and 48 months/60,000km for $1118, ensuring long-term support for owners.
Culinary Highlight of the Drive
The media drive included a stop at the renowned Pie in the Sky cafe, celebrated for its delicious pies. Options like the curry beef pie, priced at $8.20, offer a tasty break for motorists, with vegetarian choices available, making it a popular spot for car enthusiasts and bikers alike.
