Photo of Andrew Chesterton
Andrew Chesterton

Contributing Journalist

10 min read

There's a hell of a lot riding on the shoulders of the Hyundai Elexio, which is shaping as the brand's best shot to date at taking on Made In China models like the BYD Sealion 7 and Tesla Model Y. 

While the Ioniq family sits atop the EV tree at Hyundai, the Elexio is a very different proposition. It's priced more sharply (the brand is quick to point out that it's only about $8 a week more expensive than a Sealion 7 on a novated lease), and it's the first Hyundai vehicle offered in Australia that's produced in the brand's Chinese factory through its Beijing Hyundai joint venture.

In short, it feels a lot like Hyundai is ready to take on BYD at their own game in Australia.

Read the full Hyundai Elexio 2026 review: Australian first drive .