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Hyundai has unveiled its menacing CRATER concept at the 2025 Los Angeles Auto Show.
Designed at Hyundai America Technical Center in Irvine, California, the CRATER is a compact off-road SUV concept built on a compact monocoque architecture. It features steep approach and departure angles, 18-inch hexagonal wheels fitted with 33-inch off-road tyres, a wide skid plate, roof platform for auxiliary equipment, limb risers, and protective rocker panels.
Off-road capabilities include front and rear locking differentials, traction and braking management, downhill brake control, trailer brake control, compass, altimeter, and a tactile gear-style off-road controller.
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The exterior design is finished in Dune Gold Matte, inspired by California coastal terrain, with anodised orange accents. Lighting includes parametric pixel elements and auxiliary roof-mounted off-road lights. The CRATER incorporates Hyundai’s Art of Steel design language, with chiseled bodysides, sheer fender surfaces, and protective elements intended to convey strength and resilience.
Inside, the cabin is designed for function-first off-road use. It features wraparound seats with three-dimensional padding, cylindrical cushions, supportive headrests, and a four-point seatbelt system. A functional roll cage, integrated grab handles, fire extinguisher, first-aid kit, and removable Bluetooth speaker are included.
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The full-width head-up display, BYOD interface, and terrain mode selector with Snow, Sand, Mud, Auto, and XRT settings support adaptable driving in different conditions. Materials such as black leather, Alcantara, and brushed metal, along with topographic surface patterns, are used for durability and practicality.
Hyundai unveiled teaser sketches of the vehicle earlier this week, hinting at its extreme off-road design before the official debut. The concept follows Hyundai’s existing XRT models, including the IONIQ 5 XRT, Santa Cruz XRT, and Palisade XRT Pro.
The CRATER is on display at the 2025 LA Auto Show through to November 30.
