Hyundai has revealed the Crater concept at the Los Angeles auto show, showcasing a bold vision for a mid-size, off-road capable SUV. This vehicle isn’t just about aesthetics; it signals a potential expansion of Hyundai’s design language into more rugged territory, and hints at what might come for their future utility offerings.
Design Cues: From Concept to Reality
The Crater concept, approximately the size of the popular Tucson, utilizes a monocoque construction similar to Hyundai’s mainstream SUVs. However, it diverges sharply in its aggressive styling, blending Hyundai’s emerging “pixel” design theme with practical off-road enhancements like those found in their XRT accessory line.
This is significant because Hyundai is also developing a body-on-frame ute for the US market by 2030—a direct competitor to the Ford Ranger—and an SUV version could follow. The Crater’s rugged cues may preview design elements for both. Hyundai hasn’t offered a dedicated off-road SUV since the Terracan was discontinued in 2007, making this concept particularly noteworthy.
Exterior Details: Form and Function
The Crater’s exterior is striking, finished in a green-gold matte paint inspired by Southern California’s landscape. It features:
- 18-inch wheels with aggressive 33-inch all-terrain tires
- Oversized wheel arches (“sheer fenders”) for increased ground clearance
- Integrated skid plates for underbody protection
- Auxiliary lighting for improved visibility
- A roof platform for mounting gear
- A tow-recovery hook that doubles as a bottle opener
- Side mirrors with integrated flashlights
These details aren’t just cosmetic. They emphasize the vehicle’s readiness for serious off-road adventures.
Interior: Rugged Minimalism with Tech Touches
The interior of the Crater concept is equally unconventional. It prioritizes durability and functionality over traditional luxury. Key features include:
- A rugged, patinated interior designed to age gracefully
- An orange cylindrical dash contrasting with “black ember” leather
- Wraparound leather seats with four-point harness seatbelts
- Small square displays instead of a conventional instrument cluster or infotainment screen
- A removable Bluetooth speaker
- A “squircle” steering wheel showing drive modes (Snow, Sand, Mud, Auto, XRT)
- Practical additions like a fire extinguisher, first-aid kit, and integrated roll cage
The absence of traditional screens suggests Hyundai is experimenting with minimalist interfaces. The interior is clearly designed to withstand rough use, with materials chosen for their durability rather than refinement.
What This Means for Hyundai’s Future
The Hyundai Crater concept isn’t just a showpiece; it’s a statement of intent. The brand is signaling its interest in expanding into more capable off-road vehicles, leveraging both its existing design language and practical accessories. The concept suggests that Hyundai is serious about offering rugged alternatives to established competitors.
Hyundai’s move into the body-on-frame SUV segment will challenge brands like Jeep and Toyota, and the Crater concept provides a first look at how they might approach this market.
The Crater concept demonstrates Hyundai’s willingness to explore bolder design directions, combining functionality with distinctive styling. This could be a turning point for the brand, solidifying its position as a serious player in the off-road vehicle space.
