Hyundai presented its new CRATER Concept, a compact off-road SUV-style show vehicle, at AutoMobility LA 2025 in Los Angeles on 20 Nov 2025. The concept was designed at the Hyundai America Technical Center (HATCI) in Irvine, California. It is part of Hyundai’s “XRT” design language (which supports rugged, adventure-oriented models) and is meant to explore the next evolution of that look.
The exterior emphasizes strong off-road capability with features such as steep approach/departure angles, large off-road tires, prominent skid plates, and protective rocker panels. Unique design elements include hexagonal faceted wheels inspired by asteroid impacts, “limb risers” (cables front-hood to roof) for protection from overhanging obstacles, and parametric pixel lighting.
The body coloring is a “dune gold matte” finish (green-gold matte) inspired by California coastal and desert terrain, accented with anodized orange key touchpoints. The interior leans into a rugged but tech-savvy character: a roll-cage element, supportive seats with bolsters, four-point seatbelt hinting at off-road use, BYOD (“bring your own device”) digital flexibility, and full-width head-up display including rear-camera mirror feed.
The CRATER Concept signals Hyundai’s commitment to broadening its SUV/off-road lifestyle portfolio, tapping into the consumer trend for rugged versatility and “outdoor” capability. While the concept doesn’t yet provide full production specifications (powertrain, exact off-road tech etc.), it gives a strong design direction and brand vision of “freedom” and adventure (per Hyundai’s design chief). For markets like the U.S., where adventure-SUVs and off-road capable vehicles hold strong appeal, this concept helps Hyundai stake ground in that space and signals potential future model development.
