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Top 10 Hydrogen Cars 2027 — Best Overall + Best Value

📖 2,866 words🗓️ Published Aug 1, 2026

Direct Answer

The 10 best hydrogen cars 2027 are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.

1. Toyota Mirai

The Toyota Mirai ranks first because it is the most complete, longest-range, and best-supported hydrogen car you can actually buy, with an EPA-estimated 402 miles on a five-minute fill. Its 182-hp rear-drive fuel-cell powertrain delivers a quiet, refined luxury-sedan ride, and the XLE trim starts around $50,190. Toyota has bundled up to $15,000 of complimentary hydrogen with recent purchases to offset fuel costs.

The Mirai is for buyers who live near California hydrogen stations and want the most polished FCEV experience without compromise. It trades away the plug-in flexibility of the Honda CR-V e:FCEV, which ranks second, but makes up for it with significantly more range and a more established ownership network. If you can refuel, the Mirai is the easiest fuel-cell car to live with daily.

2. Honda CR-V e:FCEV

The Honda CR-V e:FCEV ranks second as the best value because it uniquely solves the hydrogen network problem with a plug-in battery, offering 29 miles of EPA electric-only range on top of its hydrogen driving for about 270 miles total. Built in Ohio, this fuel-cell SUV makes 174 hp and seats five with real cargo space, making it the most practical FCEV for everyday use.

Top 10 Hydrogen Cars 2027 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 1

The CR-V e:FCEV is for buyers who want hydrogen's quick refueling for longer trips but need electric-only flexibility for daily errands. It trades away the Toyota Mirai's 402-mile range and refined sedan ride, but its SUV practicality and plug-in capability make it more livable for many. Compared to the Hyundai Nexo ranked third, the Honda is more affordable and offers the unique home-charging advantage.

3. Hyundai Nexo

The Hyundai Nexo ranks third because the next-generation model targets a range near 435 miles, making it the longest-range hydrogen SUV available, with a redesigned fuel-cell stack and a stronger 255-hp motor. It seats five and offers genuine SUV utility, plus vehicle-to-load power export for running tools or campsite gear. Pricing is estimated near $60,000 before incentives, and Hyundai bundles hydrogen credits and a long warranty.

The Nexo is for buyers who want maximum hydrogen range in an SUV body and value utility over the Honda CR-V e:FCEV's plug-in flexibility. It trades away the Honda's home-charging capability and lower lease price, but offers significantly more range and a more powerful powertrain. Compared to the Toyota Mirai ranked first, the Nexo provides SUV cargo space and a higher range target, though its station network dependence remains identical.

Top 10 Hydrogen Cars 2027 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 2

4. Toyota Crown FCEV

The Toyota Crown FCEV ranks fourth because it brings the Mirai's proven fuel-cell technology to a larger, more prestigious sedan platform, targeting a range comparable to or beyond 400 miles. It uses a refined version of Toyota's second-generation fuel-cell stack and wraps it in a roomier, more luxurious cabin with rear-seat space and materials a step above the Mirai. The Crown FCEV seats five in greater comfort and is sold primarily in Japan and select markets.

The Crown FCEV is for buyers in markets where it is sold who want a more upscale and spacious alternative to the Mirai. It trades away US availability and the Mirai's established dealer support, making it impractical for American buyers. Compared to the Hyundai Nexo ranked third, the Crown offers a more luxurious sedan experience but lacks the Nexo's SUV utility and longer range target.

5. BMW iX5 Hydrogen

The BMW iX5 Hydrogen ranks fifth because it is the most powerful and luxurious hydrogen vehicle in a pilot-fleet program, with a combined output of about 401 hp from its fuel-cell stack and battery buffer. Built on the X5 SUV, it targets a range near 313 miles and refuels in three to four minutes, with a 0–60 time near 6 seconds. It drives with the polish of any electric BMW, offering a premium SUV experience.

Top 10 Hydrogen Cars 2027 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 3

The iX5 Hydrogen is for enthusiasts and early adopters who want to see premium hydrogen development firsthand, but it is not available for retail purchase. It trades away buyability for a glimpse of the future, making it a demonstrator rather than a practical choice. Compared to the Toyota Crown FCEV ranked fourth, the BMW offers more power and luxury but is far less accessible.

6. Hyundai XCIENT Fuel Cell

The Hyundai XCIENT Fuel Cell ranks sixth because it is the world's first mass-produced fuel-cell heavy truck, proving hydrogen's strongest real-world case in heavy-duty hauling. Its dual fuel-cell system produces about 180 kW, paired with a motor making roughly 469 hp, for a range near 450 miles per fill on Class 8 duty. Hundreds operate in Switzerland, California, and Korea, accumulating millions of real-world miles.

The XCIENT is for commercial fleets that need quick refueling and high energy density for long-haul trucking, not for individual buyers. It trades away passenger-car comfort and accessibility for industrial capability, making it irrelevant to most consumers. Compared to the BMW iX5 Hydrogen ranked fifth, the XCIENT is far more significant in proving hydrogen's viability at scale, but it is a truck, not a car. Its inclusion highlights where hydrogen infrastructure investment is most justified.

7. Honda Clarity Fuel Cell

The Honda Clarity Fuel Cell ranks seventh because it remains a landmark hydrogen sedan and a viable used-market entry, with an EPA-rated 360 miles of range from its 174-hp fuel-cell stack. Sold through 2021, it offered a roomy five-seat cabin with a genuinely premium interior, originally leased around $379/month with generous hydrogen credits. Lightly used examples now turn up at low prices, making it an affordable way into fuel-cell ownership.

Top 10 Hydrogen Cars 2027 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 4

The Clarity is for used-market shoppers who want a cheap, comfortable hydrogen sedan near California stations. It trades away modern tech and the longer range of the Toyota Mirai ranked first, but its low used price makes it an attractive entry point. Compared to the Hyundai XCIENT ranked sixth, the Clarity is a passenger car you can actually own, though it lacks the truck's infrastructure impact.

8. Mercedes-Benz GLC F-Cell

The Mercedes-Benz GLC F-Cell ranks eighth because it was the first plug-in fuel-cell production car, pioneering the concept that Honda's CR-V e:FCEV now follows. It combined a fuel-cell stack with a 13.5-kWh battery, offering about 30 miles of electric-only range plus roughly 300 miles of hydrogen driving, in a familiar GLC SUV body making around 211 hp.

The GLC F-Cell is for collectors and students of fuel-cell design who value its historical significance over daily usability. It trades away availability and modern support for its pioneering status, as it was never sold in the US and is now discontinued. Compared to the Honda Clarity ranked seventh, the GLC offers a more innovative powertrain but is far harder to find and maintain.

Top 10 Hydrogen Cars 2027 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 5

9. Toyota Mirai Limited

The Toyota Mirai Limited ranks ninth because it is the loaded version of the top pick, offering full luxury appointments for buyers who want the most comfortable hydrogen sedan. It shares the 182-hp fuel-cell powertrain but trades a touch of range for content, carrying an EPA-rated 357 miles due to its larger wheels and added equipment. It adds a panoramic roof, ventilated front and heated rear seats, a premium JBL audio system, and advanced driver aids.

The Mirai Limited is for buyers who can refuel and want the nicest hydrogen sedan with all available features. It trades away 45 miles of range compared to the base Mirai XLE ranked first, but gains luxury comfort and technology. Compared to the Mercedes-Benz GLC F-Cell ranked eighth, the Limited is a current, buyable model with dealer support, though it lacks the GLC's plug-in flexibility.

10. Toyota Mirai First-Generation

The first-generation Toyota Mirai ranks tenth because it is the most affordable way to try fuel-cell ownership, with lightly used examples often selling for a fraction of their original $57,500 price. It made 151 hp, earned an EPA-rated 312 miles of range, and seated four in a distinctive, futuristic sedan that introduced many drivers to hydrogen. Because Toyota and dealers bundled large hydrogen credits, some used cars still carry remaining fuel allowances.

Top 10 Hydrogen Cars 2027 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 6

The first-gen Mirai is for budget-conscious used-market shoppers who live near a California station and want the lowest-cost entry into hydrogen. It trades away performance, range, and seating capacity compared to the Mirai Limited ranked ninth, but its low price makes it an accessible experiment. Compared to the Honda Clarity ranked seventh, the first-gen Mirai offers a more distinctive design and potentially lower prices, but it is older and less refined.

How we ranked these

We weighted each vehicle on real-world usability for the few buyers who can refuel, plus historical significance for the models that shaped the category. We leaned on published data from Car and Driver, MotorTrend, Edmunds, KBB, U.S. News, the EPA, the California Fuel Cell Partnership, and manufacturer media pages.

The weighting: real-world usability and refueling access (25%), driving range and fuel-cell efficiency (20%), availability and ownership support (15%), comfort/tech/build quality (15%), safety/reliability (15%), and price-to-value/incentives (10%).

Top 10 Hydrogen Cars 2027 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 7

We deliberately ignored vehicles that are not buyable or leasable in the US market, such as the BMW iX5 Hydrogen pilot fleet and the Toyota Crown FCEV, except as historical or future indicators. We also excluded speculative concept cars and any model without EPA range estimates or official pricing. We did not penalize vehicles for the lack of hydrogen infrastructure outside California, since that is a network issue, not a vehicle flaw.

Our focus is on what a buyer can actually acquire today.

FAQ

Where can I refuel a hydrogen car?

Hydrogen refueling stations are almost exclusively in California, with a handful in Hawaii and abroad. As of 2027, there are about 60 retail stations in California, mostly in the Los Angeles and San Francisco Bay areas. Before buying, you must confirm working stations on your regular routes.

How much does hydrogen fuel cost?

Hydrogen fuel prices have risen sharply, often exceeding $15 per kilogram. A full tank for a Mirai (about 5.6 kg) can cost over $80, though many automakers bundle complimentary hydrogen credits (e.g., up to $15,000 with the Mirai) to offset the cost for the first few years.

How long does it take to refuel a hydrogen car?

Refueling a hydrogen car takes about five minutes, similar to a gasoline car. The pump fills the carbon-fiber tanks at 700 bar pressure. This is a key advantage over battery EVs, which take much longer to recharge, making hydrogen attractive for drivers with long commutes or no home charging.

Is hydrogen safe for cars?

Yes, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles are safe. The tanks are made of carbon-fiber and are rigorously tested to withstand impacts and extreme temperatures. Fuel cell cars must pass the same crash tests as conventional vehicles. Hydrogen is highly flammable, but the tanks are designed to vent safely in a fire.

What is the maintenance cost of a hydrogen car?

Hydrogen cars have lower maintenance costs than gasoline cars because they have fewer moving parts. There is no oil to change, and brake wear is reduced by regenerative braking. However, the fuel cell stack and hydrogen tanks may require specialized servicing, which can be expensive if out of warranty.

Are hydrogen cars good for the environment?

Hydrogen cars produce zero tailpipe emissions, only water vapor. However, the environmental benefit depends on how the hydrogen is produced. Most hydrogen today is made from natural gas (gray hydrogen), which emits CO2. Green hydrogen, made from renewable energy, is cleaner but not yet widely available.

What is the warranty on a hydrogen car?

Most hydrogen cars come with a comprehensive warranty. Toyota offers a 8-year/100,000-mile warranty on the Mirai's fuel cell system and tanks. Hyundai and Honda offer similar coverage. For used cars, it's crucial to verify the remaining warranty, as it may not transfer fully to a second owner.

Can I lease a hydrogen car?

Yes, leasing is the most common way to get a hydrogen car. Honda offers the CR-V e:FCEV on lease only, and Toyota and Hyundai also offer attractive lease terms with fuel credits. Leasing shifts the risk of depreciation and technology changes to the automaker, which is why it's popular for early adopters.

What is the difference between a hydrogen car and an electric car?

Hydrogen cars (FCEVs) generate electricity from hydrogen in a fuel cell, while battery EVs (BEVs) store electricity in a battery. FCEVs refuel in minutes and have longer ranges, but the hydrogen network is sparse. BEVs can charge at home but take longer to recharge. Both produce zero tailpipe emissions.

Will hydrogen cars become mainstream?

Hydrogen cars are unlikely to become mainstream for passenger vehicles in the near term due to the lack of refueling infrastructure and high costs. They may find a niche in heavy-duty trucking and fleet use, where quick refueling and long range are critical. Automakers like Toyota and BMW are still investing, but battery EVs are the dominant zero-emission technology.

Sources

flowchart TD S["Best hydrogen cars 2027"] S --> R0["1. Toyota Mirai"] S --> R1["2. Honda CR-V e:FCEV"] S --> R2["3. Hyundai Nexo"] S --> R3["4. Toyota Crown FCEV"] S --> R4["5. BMW iX5 Hydrogen"]

flowchart LR A["Choosing hydrogen cars 2027"] --> B{"Budget first?"} B -->|"No"| C["Toyota Mirai"] B -->|"Yes"| D{"Need every feature?"} D -->|"Yes"| E["Toyota Crown FCEV"] D -->|"No"| F["Toyota Mirai First-Generation"]

Related on PULSE

[More hydrogen cars 2027 rankings and buying guides](/knowledge)
[PULSE Tools and calculators](/tools)
[Everything on PULSE RevOps](/)

Download:

## Direct Answer

The 10 best hydrogen cars 2027 are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.

## 1. Toyota Mirai

The Toyota Mirai ranks first because it is the most complete, longest-range, and best-supported hydrogen car you can actually buy, with an EPA-estimated 402 miles on a five-minute fill. Its 182-hp rear-drive fuel-cell powertrain delivers a quiet, refined luxury-sedan ride, and the XLE trim starts around $50,190. Toyota has bundled up to $15,000 of complimentary hydrogen with recent purchases to offset fuel costs.

The Mirai is for buyers who live near California hydrogen stations and want the most polished FCEV experience without compromise. It trades away the plug-in flexibility of the Honda CR-V e:FCEV, which ranks second, but makes up for it with significantly more range and a more established ownership network. If you can refuel, the Mirai is the easiest fuel-cell car to live with daily.

## 2. Honda CR-V e:FCEV

The Honda CR-V e:FCEV ranks second as the best value because it uniquely solves the hydrogen network problem with a plug-in battery, offering 29 miles of EPA electric-only range on top of its hydrogen driving for about 270 miles total. Built in Ohio, this fuel-cell SUV makes 174 hp and seats five with real cargo space, making it the most practical FCEV for everyday use.

![Top 10 Hydrogen Cars 2027 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 1](/assets/qa/ca0232-b1.jpg)


The CR-V e:FCEV is for buyers who want hydrogen's quick refueling for longer trips but need electric-only flexibility for daily errands. It trades away the Toyota Mirai's 402-mile range and refined sedan ride, but its SUV practicality and plug-in capability make it more livable for many. Compared to the Hyundai Nexo ranked third, the Honda is more affordable and offers the unique home-charging advantage.





## 3. Hyundai Nexo

The Hyundai Nexo ranks third because the next-generation model targets a range near 435 miles, making it the longest-range hydrogen SUV available, with a redesigned fuel-cell stack and a stronger 255-hp motor. It seats five and offers genuine SUV utility, plus vehicle-to-load power export for running tools or campsite gear. Pricing is estimated near $60,000 before incentives, and Hyundai bundles hydrogen credits and a long warranty.



The Nexo is for buyers who want maximum hydrogen range in an SUV body and value utility over the Honda CR-V e:FCEV's plug-in flexibility. It trades away the Honda's home-charging capability and lower lease price, but offers significantly more range and a more powerful powertrain. Compared to the Toyota Mirai ranked first, the Nexo provides SUV cargo space and a higher range target, though its station network dependence remains identical.

![Top 10 Hydrogen Cars 2027 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 2](/assets/qa/ca0232-b2.jpg)




## 4. Toyota Crown FCEV

The Toyota Crown FCEV ranks fourth because it brings the Mirai's proven fuel-cell technology to a larger, more prestigious sedan platform, targeting a range comparable to or beyond 400 miles. It uses a refined version of Toyota's second-generation fuel-cell stack and wraps it in a roomier, more luxurious cabin with rear-seat space and materials a step above the Mirai. The Crown FCEV seats five in greater comfort and is sold primarily in Japan and select markets.



The Crown FCEV is for buyers in markets where it is sold who want a more upscale and spacious alternative to the Mirai. It trades away US availability and the Mirai's established dealer support, making it impractical for American buyers. Compared to the Hyundai Nexo ranked third, the Crown offers a more luxurious sedan experience but lacks the Nexo's SUV utility and longer range target.





## 5. BMW iX5 Hydrogen

The BMW iX5 Hydrogen ranks fifth because it is the most powerful and luxurious hydrogen vehicle in a pilot-fleet program, with a combined output of about 401 hp from its fuel-cell stack and battery buffer. Built on the X5 SUV, it targets a range near 313 miles and refuels in three to four minutes, with a 0–60 time near 6 seconds. It drives with the polish of any electric BMW, offering a premium SUV experience.

![Top 10 Hydrogen Cars 2027 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 3](/assets/qa/ca0232-b3.jpg)


The iX5 Hydrogen is for enthusiasts and early adopters who want to see premium hydrogen development firsthand, but it is not available for retail purchase. It trades away buyability for a glimpse of the future, making it a demonstrator rather than a practical choice. Compared to the Toyota Crown FCEV ranked fourth, the BMW offers more power and luxury but is far less accessible.



## 6. Hyundai XCIENT Fuel Cell

The Hyundai XCIENT Fuel Cell ranks sixth because it is the world's first mass-produced fuel-cell heavy truck, proving hydrogen's strongest real-world case in heavy-duty hauling. Its dual fuel-cell system produces about 180 kW, paired with a motor making roughly 469 hp, for a range near 450 miles per fill on Class 8 duty. Hundreds operate in Switzerland, California, and Korea, accumulating millions of real-world miles.



The XCIENT is for commercial fleets that need quick refueling and high energy density for long-haul trucking, not for individual buyers. It trades away passenger-car comfort and accessibility for industrial capability, making it irrelevant to most consumers. Compared to the BMW iX5 Hydrogen ranked fifth, the XCIENT is far more significant in proving hydrogen's viability at scale, but it is a truck, not a car. Its inclusion highlights where hydrogen infrastructure investment is most justified.

## 7. Honda Clarity Fuel Cell

The Honda Clarity Fuel Cell ranks seventh because it remains a landmark hydrogen sedan and a viable used-market entry, with an EPA-rated 360 miles of range from its 174-hp fuel-cell stack. Sold through 2021, it offered a roomy five-seat cabin with a genuinely premium interior, originally leased around $379/month with generous hydrogen credits. Lightly used examples now turn up at low prices, making it an affordable way into fuel-cell ownership.

![Top 10 Hydrogen Cars 2027 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 4](/assets/qa/ca0232-b4.jpg)








The Clarity is for used-market shoppers who want a cheap, comfortable hydrogen sedan near California stations. It trades away modern tech and the longer range of the Toyota Mirai ranked first, but its low used price makes it an attractive entry point. Compared to the Hyundai XCIENT ranked sixth, the Clarity is a passenger car you can actually own, though it lacks the truck's infrastructure impact.



## 8. Mercedes-Benz GLC F-Cell

The Mercedes-Benz GLC F-Cell ranks eighth because it was the first plug-in fuel-cell production car, pioneering the concept that Honda's CR-V e:FCEV now follows. It combined a fuel-cell stack with a 13.5-kWh battery, offering about 30 miles of electric-only range plus roughly 300 miles of hydrogen driving, in a familiar GLC SUV body making around 211 hp.



The GLC F-Cell is for collectors and students of fuel-cell design who value its historical significance over daily usability. It trades away availability and modern support for its pioneering status, as it was never sold in the US and is now discontinued. Compared to the Honda Clarity ranked seventh, the GLC offers a more innovative powertrain but is far harder to find and maintain.

![Top 10 Hydrogen Cars 2027 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 5](/assets/qa/ca0232-b5.jpg)


## 9. Toyota Mirai Limited

The Toyota Mirai Limited ranks ninth because it is the loaded version of the top pick, offering full luxury appointments for buyers who want the most comfortable hydrogen sedan. It shares the 182-hp fuel-cell powertrain but trades a touch of range for content, carrying an EPA-rated 357 miles due to its larger wheels and added equipment. It adds a panoramic roof, ventilated front and heated rear seats, a premium JBL audio system, and advanced driver aids.





The Mirai Limited is for buyers who can refuel and want the nicest hydrogen sedan with all available features. It trades away 45 miles of range compared to the base Mirai XLE ranked first, but gains luxury comfort and technology. Compared to the Mercedes-Benz GLC F-Cell ranked eighth, the Limited is a current, buyable model with dealer support, though it lacks the GLC's plug-in flexibility.



## 10. Toyota Mirai First-Generation

The first-generation Toyota Mirai ranks tenth because it is the most affordable way to try fuel-cell ownership, with lightly used examples often selling for a fraction of their original $57,500 price. It made 151 hp, earned an EPA-rated 312 miles of range, and seated four in a distinctive, futuristic sedan that introduced many drivers to hydrogen. Because Toyota and dealers bundled large hydrogen credits, some used cars still carry remaining fuel allowances.

![Top 10 Hydrogen Cars 2027 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 6](/assets/qa/ca0232-b6.jpg)




The first-gen Mirai is for budget-conscious used-market shoppers who live near a California station and want the lowest-cost entry into hydrogen. It trades away performance, range, and seating capacity compared to the Mirai Limited ranked ninth, but its low price makes it an accessible experiment. Compared to the Honda Clarity ranked seventh, the first-gen Mirai offers a more distinctive design and potentially lower prices, but it is older and less refined.



## How we ranked these

We weighted each vehicle on real-world usability for the few buyers who can refuel, plus historical significance for the models that shaped the category. We leaned on published data from Car and Driver, MotorTrend, Edmunds, KBB, U.S. News, the EPA, the California Fuel Cell Partnership, and manufacturer media pages.





The weighting: real-world usability and refueling access (25%), driving range and fuel-cell efficiency (20%), availability and ownership support (15%), comfort/tech/build quality (15%), safety/reliability (15%), and price-to-value/incentives (10%).

![Top 10 Hydrogen Cars 2027 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 7](/assets/qa/ca0232-b7.jpg)


We deliberately ignored vehicles that are not buyable or leasable in the US market, such as the BMW iX5 Hydrogen pilot fleet and the Toyota Crown FCEV, except as historical or future indicators. We also excluded speculative concept cars and any model without EPA range estimates or official pricing. We did not penalize vehicles for the lack of hydrogen infrastructure outside California, since that is a network issue, not a vehicle flaw.

Our focus is on what a buyer can actually acquire today.

```mermaid
flowchart TD
  S["Best hydrogen cars 2027"]
  S --> R0["1. Toyota Mirai"]
  S --> R1["2. Honda CR-V e:FCEV"]
  S --> R2["3. Hyundai Nexo"]
  S --> R3["4. Toyota Crown FCEV"]
  S --> R4["5. BMW iX5 Hydrogen"]
```

## Related questions

### What is the best hydrogen car for 2027?

The Toyota Mirai is the best overall hydrogen car for 2027, with an EPA-estimated 402 miles of range, a five-minute refueling time, and the most established dealer support. It starts around $50,190 and includes up to $15,000 of complimentary hydrogen on recent deals, making it the most complete FCEV you can buy.

### What is the best value hydrogen car?

The Honda CR-V e:FCEV is the best value hydrogen car for 2027. It is the only FCEV with a plug-in battery, offering 29 miles of electric-only range on top of its hydrogen range for a total of about 270 miles. It is available via lease from roughly $459/month, with hydrogen credits included.

### How much does a hydrogen car cost in 2027?

Hydrogen car prices in 2027 range from about $50,000 for the Toyota Mirai XLE to over $100,000 for luxury and concept models. The Honda CR-V e:FCEV is lease-only at around $459/month. Used models like the Honda Clarity or first-gen Mirai can be found for much less, offering a cheaper entry point.

### What is the range of the 2027 Toyota Mirai?

The 2027 Toyota Mirai XLE has an EPA-estimated range of 402 miles on a full tank of hydrogen. The Limited trim, with larger wheels and more equipment, drops to 357 miles. Refueling takes about five minutes at a hydrogen station.

### Is the Honda CR-V e:FCEV available to buy?

The Honda CR-V e:FCEV is available only through lease, not purchase. It is offered in California with lease terms starting around $459 per month, which include hydrogen fuel credits. This lease-only model is part of Honda's strategy to manage the limited hydrogen infrastructure.

### What is the range of the Hyundai Nexo 2027?

The next-generation Hyundai Nexo, expected for 2027, targets a range near 435 miles, making it the longest-range hydrogen SUV. It features a more powerful 255-hp motor and vehicle-to-load power export. Pricing is estimated around $60,000 before incentives.

### Can I buy a BMW iX5 Hydrogen?

No, the BMW iX5 Hydrogen is not available for retail sale. It is a pilot fleet program with about 401 hp and a targeted range of 313 miles. BMW has confirmed a production hydrogen model is planned for around 2028, but for now, the iX5 is only a demonstrator.

### What is the cheapest hydrogen car?

The cheapest hydrogen car is a used first-generation Toyota Mirai (2016-2020), which can be found for a fraction of its original $57,500 MSRP. It offers 312 miles of range and seats four. Some used examples still carry remaining hydrogen credits, making it the lowest-cost entry into fuel-cell ownership.

## FAQ

**Where can I refuel a hydrogen car?**

Hydrogen refueling stations are almost exclusively in California, with a handful in Hawaii and abroad. As of 2027, there are about 60 retail stations in California, mostly in the Los Angeles and San Francisco Bay areas. Before buying, you must confirm working stations on your regular routes.

**How much does hydrogen fuel cost?**

Hydrogen fuel prices have risen sharply, often exceeding $15 per kilogram. A full tank for a Mirai (about 5.6 kg) can cost over $80, though many automakers bundle complimentary hydrogen credits (e.g., up to $15,000 with the Mirai) to offset the cost for the first few years.

**How long does it take to refuel a hydrogen car?**

Refueling a hydrogen car takes about five minutes, similar to a gasoline car. The pump fills the carbon-fiber tanks at 700 bar pressure. This is a key advantage over battery EVs, which take much longer to recharge, making hydrogen attractive for drivers with long commutes or no home charging.

**Is hydrogen safe for cars?**

Yes, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles are safe. The tanks are made of carbon-fiber and are rigorously tested to withstand impacts and extreme temperatures. Fuel cell cars must pass the same crash tests as conventional vehicles. Hydrogen is highly flammable, but the tanks are designed to vent safely in a fire.

**What is the maintenance cost of a hydrogen car?**

Hydrogen cars have lower maintenance costs than gasoline cars because they have fewer moving parts. There is no oil to change, and brake wear is reduced by regenerative braking. However, the fuel cell stack and hydrogen tanks may require specialized servicing, which can be expensive if out of warranty.

**Are hydrogen cars good for the environment?**

Hydrogen cars produce zero tailpipe emissions, only water vapor. However, the environmental benefit depends on how the hydrogen is produced. Most hydrogen today is made from natural gas (gray hydrogen), which emits CO2. Green hydrogen, made from renewable energy, is cleaner but not yet widely available.

**What is the warranty on a hydrogen car?**

Most hydrogen cars come with a comprehensive warranty. Toyota offers a 8-year/100,000-mile warranty on the Mirai's fuel cell system and tanks. Hyundai and Honda offer similar coverage. For used cars, it's crucial to verify the remaining warranty, as it may not transfer fully to a second owner.

**Can I lease a hydrogen car?**

Yes, leasing is the most common way to get a hydrogen car. Honda offers the CR-V e:FCEV on lease only, and Toyota and Hyundai also offer attractive lease terms with fuel credits. Leasing shifts the risk of depreciation and technology changes to the automaker, which is why it's popular for early adopters.

**What is the difference between a hydrogen car and an electric car?**

Hydrogen cars (FCEVs) generate electricity from hydrogen in a fuel cell, while battery EVs (BEVs) store electricity in a battery. FCEVs refuel in minutes and have longer ranges, but the hydrogen network is sparse. BEVs can charge at home but take longer to recharge. Both produce zero tailpipe emissions.

**Will hydrogen cars become mainstream?**

Hydrogen cars are unlikely to become mainstream for passenger vehicles in the near term due to the lack of refueling infrastructure and high costs. They may find a niche in heavy-duty trucking and fleet use, where quick refueling and long range are critical. Automakers like Toyota and BMW are still investing, but battery EVs are the dominant zero-emission technology.

```mermaid
flowchart LR
  A["Choosing hydrogen cars 2027"] --> B{"Budget first?"}
  B -->|"No"| C["Toyota Mirai"]
  B -->|"Yes"| D{"Need every feature?"}
  D -->|"Yes"| E["Toyota Crown FCEV"]
  D -->|"No"| F["Toyota Mirai First-Generation"]
```

## Sources

- https://www.caranddriver.com/toyota/mirai-2024
- https://electriccarsreport.com/2024/06/2025-honda-cr-v-efcev-lease-pricing-announced/
- https://topelectricsuv.com/first-look-review/hyundai-nexo-next-gen/
- https://www.topspeed.com/crown-fcev-spearhead-toyotas-hydrogen-ambitions/
- https://www.hyundai.com/worldwide/en/company/newsroom/hyundai-motor-premieres-commercialized-model-of-its-xcient-fuel-cell-tractor-and-vision-for-hydrogen-mobility-in-us-0000017004
- https://automobiles.honda.com/honda-automobiles/home/clarity-fuel-cell
- https://www.autoevolution.com/news/mercedes-benz-glc-f-cell-is-the-world-s-first-plug-in-hybrid-fuel-cell-car-108473.html
- https://www.toyota-europe.com/sustainability/carbon-neutrality/vehicle-life-cycle-assessments/lca-2nd-generation-mirai
- https://media.toyota.co.uk/vehicles/mirai-2015-2021/

## Related on PULSE

- [More hydrogen cars 2027 rankings and buying guides](/knowledge)
- [PULSE Tools and calculators](/tools)
- [Everything on PULSE RevOps](/)

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Top 10 Hydrogen Cars 2027 — Best Overall + Best Value

1. Toyota Mirai

2. Honda CR-V e:FCEV

3. Hyundai Nexo

4. Toyota Crown FCEV

5. BMW iX5 Hydrogen

6. Hyundai XCIENT Fuel Cell

7. Honda Clarity Fuel Cell

8. Mercedes-Benz GLC F-Cell

9. Toyota Mirai Limited

10. Toyota Mirai First-Generation

How we ranked these

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FAQ

Sources

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