Hyundai’s new electric SUV is outperforming all expectations ahead of its imminent launch

Ahead of its release in 2026, the new electric Hyundai SUV has been smashing it in early tests, literally, as the Elexio is outperforming all expectations.

Much like many other companies, Hyundai is attempting to crack the Chinese market with the Elexio in 2026.

The new electric Hyundai SUV is one of many brands from outside of China that will be looking to penetrate the world’s most lucrative car markets.

But the development of the Elexio isn’t without some sacrifices, as the Beijing test center has been smashing them up to evaluate its performance and safety.

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The new electric Hyundai SUV has been put through the blender in Beijing

South Korean manufacturer Hyundai is really upping the ante this year as it looks to transform its image towards a more cool, electric, and sporty brand.

The new Ioniq 5 N typifies this, being warped from the typical mid-size CUV into a whippet rally car.

This ethos is also being added to the Elexio, the new electric Hyundai SUV launching in China.

While it looks like your typical SUV, the Beijing HQ has been running it in high-speed tests to try and maximise its safety.

Boasting a massive range of 435 miles, and a top speed of 115mph, the bulky car also has a feature named ‘God’s hand’, which is set to be a game changer.

The 360-degree five-layered frame has been impressive in three crash tests, targeting the front, side, and rollover positions.

High-end shock absorber valves and hydraulic bushings complement the frame to absorb impact.

The safety cage appeared to protect the passengers in huge collisions. The car is also being built to withstand extreme weather conditions, akin to other Chinese vehicles, proving to be efficient in a -22F (-30°C) chamber.

You can watch the tests in the video at the top of the article.

Hyundai Elexio is gearing up for a big entrance in 2026

The Elexio is being slated as the Chinese Ioniq, which is high praise from the company considering the model’s success in America.

But it will face fierce competition when it launches.

Already, the best-selling car in China is a cheap electric SUV, and Mazda, Xiaomi, and Toyota are all enjoying success with their SUVs.

Then there’s the upcoming Ford Bronco, too, which is set to launch in 2025, undercutting the Elexio.

Still, the electric Hyundai SUV is filled with promise, and the company appears excited.

It won’t be the only highly effective vehicle coming from the Hyundai assembly line either, as a second high-performance EV debuted at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.

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