The Hyundai Boulder Idea has been revealed on the 2026 New York motor present, previewing the rugged, boxy design route of the model’s first correct Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux rival – a mannequin on Hyundai Australia’s want checklist for 2028.
Hyundai has confirmed it can introduce a brand new pickup in the US by 2030, underpinned by a ladder-frame chassis like these utilized by the Ranger, HiLux and key rivals, after beforehand providing the car-based Santa Cruz.
“Creating a sturdy midsize pickup is a big progress alternative for Hyundai in the US,” stated Hyundai Motor North America president and CEO Randy Parker in an announcement.
“Physique-on-frame vans play a central position on this market, and we see a transparent alternative to convey prospects a brand new different that displays how they work, discover, and reside.
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“The Boulder Idea SUV indicators our strategy to this phase and the way we’re thoughtfully growing our midsize pickup with the wants and expectations of US prospects on the core.”
The present automotive rides on the upcoming ute’s underpinnings, topped with muscular ‘Artwork of Metal’ styling together with pronounced wheel arches, 37-inch all-terrain tyres, a bluff entrance finish and a tailgate-mounted spare wheel.
Inside, the sand-coloured cabin options configurable seating and a rounded dashboard, a head-up show together with a raft of bodily buttons and off-road-focused particulars equivalent to rugged seize handles, 4 small central shows, and huge storage areas.
Hyundai hasn’t detailed a powertrain for the present automotive, which it’s formally calling a “design research”.
The model’s upcoming ute is amongst 36 new fashions deliberate for US showrooms by 2030, however the brand new ute is predicted to spawn an SUV, à la the Ford Ranger and its Everest sibling.
Autos on the ute’s new body-on-frame underpinnings can be designed and constructed within the US, utilizing Hyundai-produced US metal.
Hyundai Australia informed CarExpert earlier this 12 months it’s focusing on a ute for native showrooms round 2028.
“Strategically, it’s nonetheless a piece in progress. It’s leaning in the direction of a few years from now … and it’s nonetheless [being developed] in collaboration with the US,” Hyundai Australia chief working officer Gavin Donaldson stated.
Hyundai is at present the one top-ten model in Australia to not supply a dual-cab ute in its lineup, with MG, which positioned tenth in gross sales total in 2025, lately introducing the U9.
The very best-selling car in Australia in 2025 was the Ford Ranger, with the Toyota HiLux and Isuzu D-Max additionally among the many high 10 hottest fashions.
