Many brands showcased their vehicles at Automobility LA 2025, but the most talked-about was the Hyundai CRATER Concept. It’s an off-road SUV that captivated audiences at first sight. Its wide stance, massive tires, muscular body, and high-tech interior make it recognizable even in crowds.
This car could be part of Hyundai’s XRT family, the brand’s off-road lineup. The company plans to expand this family to include more vehicles in the future. Looking at this concept car, it seems the company isn’t just focusing on one trim but rather wants to create a sub-brand that can directly challenge its competitors.
Although it is just a concept SUV, its features and design look so practical and production-ready that it is a preview of future SUVs. It has been designed at the American Technical Center, keeping in mind that it should provide a smooth driving experience on all terrains, like mud, snow, mountains, and forests.
Off-road Design
The design of this car is absolutely sharp and captivates people at first glance; just by looking at it, one feels that this is the best option for any off-roader. The “Art of Steel” design language has been used on the body of this car, in which sharp steel-like lines, bold fenders, and block-style surfaces are used, due to which it gives a strong and powerful appeal.
Its wheel arches are fitted with 33-inch all-terrain tires, mounted on 18-inch hexagonal-design wheels. They not only look stunning but also offer superior off-road grip. Heavy-duty skid plates at the front and rear, short overhangs, and high ground clearance make it distinct from any other off-road SUV.
Premium Interiors
This SUV’s interior is quite spacious and premium, offering a modern, futuristic, and minimalist feel. The traditional center touchscreen has been replaced by a wide head-up display that projects information onto pure glass. This design was incorporated into the car to keep the driver focused on the road.
The concept car’s seats are based on a “sleeping-bag-inspired” design, meaning they feature rounded cylinder-style cushioning, providing a comfortable camping feel along with a striking look. The cabin features digital switching, touch-integrated controls, and multi-use storage options.
Is this SUV an EV?
The company has not made any information public regarding its powertrain, but it clearly seems that it is going to be an electric vehicle that will have two motors along with a powerful battery, as it is going to be available with an all-wheel drive option.
The production-ready model of this car is expected to have a battery capacity of over 100 KW, which will give a range of around 500 kilometers on a full charge. Due to the presence of two motors, its maximum power and torque will also be quite high, which will help in better off-roading.
It is expected that the car will have an acceleration time of 0 to 100 km/h in about 3 or 4 seconds and a top speed of around 200 km/h. This car will support a DC charger up to approximately 250 kW, which will charge it from 10 to 80 percent in just half an hour.
While the company hasn’t made anything public regarding its production model, the details we have gathered regarding the powertrain are expected. As its design is quite practical, it is possible that Hyundai may launch it or a similar off-road SUV in the future.
Safety & Comfort
If this concept SUV makes it to production, it will boast numerous advanced features designed to ensure occupant safety and convenience. It will also include multiple airbags, which play a crucial role in saving lives during a collision.
Additionally, this car will include features like automatic braking and driving assistance. Furthermore, for the comfort of both drivers and passengers, it’s likely to have both an air conditioner and a heater, which can be used depending on the situation.
