by Chris Chilton
- Hyundai teases a rugged SUV concept previewing future XRT models.
- The four-door concept features pixel lights and serious off-road rubber.
- Debuts Nov 20 during a YouTube livestream from the LA Auto Show.
Update: After releasing the teaser sketches, Hyundai has unveiled the new Crater Concept in the flesh, showing both its exterior and interior. Although no technical information was provided – and it’s still unclear whether the concept points to a future production model or simply hints at the direction of the XRT badge – the company described the project as a design exploration.
Hyundai has a new off-road concept on the way, and it’s not shy about getting its wheels dirty. Called the Crater, this rugged-looking show car being teased here could represent Hyundai’s next adventure-oriented design direction, and it’s set to make its debut this week at the Los Angeles Auto Show.
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The name, definitely not to be confused with the Hyundai Creta subcompact sold in Asia, suggests something dramatic, and the first teaser images back that up. Could it be a preview of a future Ford Bronco or some kind of Toyota Land Cruiser rival, if not in size, then at least in spirit? We don’t know yet, but it sounds like it.
Hyundai’s Next Off-Road Idea
What we do know is that the Crater concept appears tall and purposeful, with short overhangs, aggressive fenders, and lighting elements that give off a futuristic yet utilitarian vibe.
Hyundai says it’s meant to explore a tougher, more dirt-focused identity for the brand, a signal that its “XRT” styling packages could soon evolve into something far more capable.
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That would be a welcome move. Hyundai’s current SUV lineup is packed with popular crossovers, but it lacks a true off-road hero, something car buyers are increasingly looking for when shopping with most brands
The Crater concept seems to hint at what such a vehicle might look like, whether it’s a trail-ready electric SUV, or just a sign that XRT variants will up their off-road game.
The teaser’s enclosed grille and smooth surfaces suggest electrification, though the company hasn’t confirmed powertrain details yet. If it evolved into a production SUV, a combustion or hybrid powertrain would seem most likely. That would put Hyundai in closer competition with the likes of Ford and Jeep.
“CRATER began with a question: ‘What does freedom look like?’ This vehicle stands as our answer,” said SangYup Lee, Executive Vice President and Head of Hyundai and Genesis Global Design. “It is a vision shaped by our unending drive to explore — to inspire our customers to explore deeper and embrace the impact of adventure.”
A Renewed Off-Road Push
It’s interesting to see Hyundai double down on the off-road theme after the brand’s Santa Cruz light truck failed to catch on the way the brand expected. But the automaker clearly sees value in keeping the spirit of exploration alive, as evidenced by the warmly-received Ioniq 5 XRT and now this concept.
The Crater will make its world premiere at this week’s LA Auto Show, which runs from November 21 to 30.
