The Thar nameplate has been dominating the 4×4 SUV segment for years. And no brand has come close to Mahindra in 4×4 sales. Hyundai might be planning to capitalise on the limited competition in this segment. That being said, last year, Hyundai showcased a new 4×4 concept, the Crater. Here is everything you need to know about this-
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Looks-
Hyundai’s upcoming 4×4, the Crater, could be based on the E-GMP platform. The same platform underpins some of the high-end Hyundais worldwide. The concept reveals a purpose-built off-roader design, with Dune Gold Matter finish. The crater concept is angular, boxy, and rugged, with large dimensions. Adding to the off-road character are the pixelated, Minecraft-like wheel arches and the 18-inch wheels with a hexagonal design, wrapped in 33-inch off-road tyres. Resembling the Ioniq 5, the Crater also features Parametric Pixels in the lighting. Another quirky bit we can notice in the Crater is the placement of the suicide doors. Overall design reflects the ruggedness of the Crater. It’s interesting to see how much of this concept Hyundai will bring to the production version.
Also Read: New Hyundai Creta Launching Soon – Should You Wait For It?
Interior & Features-
Just like its unique exterior design, the interior of the Crater is nothing like that of a traditional Hyundai SUV. Not just the larger infotainment screen, but the instrument cluster is missing as well. With the production version, this could not be the same; only some elements, including the ambient lighting and quirky seat design, could make it. The concept also reveals that the HUD unit from the other Hyundais could make it into the Crater. Equipped with a roll cage, the Crater concept lacks a sunroof. On the safety front, the production version could be offered with a 360-degree camera and Level-2 ADAS. What else?
Know More: Hyundai’s Answer to the XUV700 Just Got a Launch Date
Powertrain-
Based on the E-GMP platform, the Crater could share a powertrain with other vehicles on it. Crater is expected to be offered with the 84kWh battery pack paired with the dual-motor setup. Traditionally used with the AWD powertrain, this powertrain could be modified to handle serious off-roading. Producing nearly 325bhp and 605Nm. To provide optimal grip across different terrains, this SUV could offer driver modes for snow, mud, and sand.
Read More: New Hyundai SUV Spotted
Rivals-
If launched, the Hyundai Crater will be placed above the Creta in the Indian market. With its unique electric 4×4 powertrain, it will compete against the upcoming Mahindra Thar.e, and BE 07 at a higher price range. However, to make this product successful, Hyundai also has to compete with lower-segment electric 4×4 SUVs like the upcoming Tata Sierra.ev and Harrier.ev.
Expected Launch & Pricing-
The Crater is just a concept under the Hyundai XRT lineup. And Hyundai shows no immediate plans to introduce this premium 4×4 electric SUV in the Indian market. That being said, if this SUV is to be launched, we can expect this launch by late 2028. With the launch of the Crater, Hyundai might bring in the XRT lineup in India. Given all this, this SUV by no means is gonna be cheap; we could expect it to be priced somewhere between Rs 20 lakh and Rs 35 lakh (on-road, Mumbai).
Read More: Next-Gen Creta Spotted Ahead Of Launch!