Value-minded drivers cheer
as a high-value pick takes the spotlight
Hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles are emerging as the used-car market’s new value leaders. K Car’s analysis of average selling times for major models in February 2026 shows Hyundai’s hydrogen fuel-cell NEXO recorded the fastest turnover, averaging just 16.9 days.
It even outpaced compact mainstay the Ray (18.7 days) and the full-size Grandeur GN7 (18.0 days).
Hydrogen cars have typically lagged in the used market because of limited refueling infrastructure and concerns about operating costs. Industry observers say NEXO’s No. 1 ranking over compact, mid‑size and large sedans is an unexpected development.
At the heart of the trend is a growing perception that buyers can secure near-new levels of equipment for roughly 15 million KRW (about $10,050).
New-car price ~70 million KRW (≈ $46,900) → used ~15 million KRW (≈ $10,050): the paradox of a 78% depreciation
The NEXO’s new-car sticker is roughly 70 million KRW (about $46,900). In the used market it trades near 15 million KRW (about $10,050), implying roughly a 78% depreciation.
K Car said, "Although the sticker price is in the 70 million KRW range, heavy depreciation in the used market has created clear price competitiveness."
Positioned in the mid-size SUV segment, the NEXO delivers near-new quality with a near–full-option interior, a comfortable ride and extended parts-warranty coverage.
Compared with similarly priced used compact and subcompact SUVs, buyers report higher satisfaction with the NEXO’s equipment and interior finish, and that word-of-mouth has helped drive demand.
K Car noted that higher satisfaction with options and interior features versus similarly priced used vehicles is a key factor behind its popularity.
February sales-speed ranking…small cars and RVs lag
In February, average selling times by model ranked as follows: NEXO 16.9 days; Grandeur GN7 18.0 days; The New K3 18.2 days; The New Ray 18.7 days; LF Sonata 22.1 days; and XM3 23.7 days.
Compared with K Car’s average inventory turnover of 33 days, these top models all registered notably faster moves, finishing around the 20-day mark.
By contrast, the Palisade (large SUV) averaged 29.7 days, The New Carnival (RV) 32.1 days and the Accent (small car) 36.6 days.
K Car attributes the longer hold times to seasonal demand patterns: large SUVs and RVs see demand concentrated around travel seasons and holidays, while small-sedan demand spreads across compact and small SUVs. February and March are peak-buying months, which tends to accelerate turnover for the most popular models.
