AutoMobility LA 2025 saw the debut of new Hyundai concept

Hyundai Motor America celebrated the global debut of its new Crater Concept adventure vehicle at the AutoMobility LA 2025. Described as a compact off-road SUV, the concept car was crafted with the spirit of XRT and sports design elements as seen on the Ioniq 5 XRT, Santa Cruz XRT, and Palisade XRT Pro production models.

The Crater Concept's Art of Steel exterior design language transforms the strength and flexibility of steel into a language of sculptural beauty, revealing flowing volumes and precise lines. Its 18-inch wheels were inspired by envisioning a hexagonal asteroid impacting a sheer metal landscape and are clad in 33-inch off-road tyres for superior traction and ground clearance in any environment.

The Crater Concept's side-mirror cameras can double as flashlights and its roof platform can be used to mount auxiliary lighting and store off-road accessories

Other exterior highlights include a wide skid plate across its underbody for added protection, a roof platform to mount auxiliary lighting and provide additional storage, a unique three-dimensional lighting signature that adds depth and precision by creating a layered effect, and limb risers - stretching from the front hood to the roof - adding protection from low-hanging branches.

In addition, one of the Crater Concept's built-in recovery hooks can also act as a bottle opener, while its side-mirror cameras can also double as flashlights and can be removed in emergency situations.

Inside, technical shapes are wrapped in soft-yet-durable materials. The concept's singular interior design starts with its high-brow crash pad, which bridges its exterior with its interior. The head-up display on the Crater Concept is a multi-function display that includes a rearview camera mirror feed. Structurally, a functional roll cage outlines the cabin, adding tension and strength, while integrated grab handles provide ease of entering and exiting.

The Crater Concept's unconventional dashboard's crash pad is shaped like a bent metal sheet, while its seats are combined with three-dimensional padding for stability and comfort

The Crater Concept's seats feature wraparound forms that are a departure from traditional bucket seats. These seats are combined with three-dimensional padding that provides stability and comfort during rugged journeys. Cylindrical cushions and a supportive headrest offer ergonomic comfort, while ample side bolsters stabilise the body during off-roading. A four-point seatbelt system hints at enhanced restraint and safety in off-road scenarios.

Visually, its green-gold matt exterior paint draws rich inspiration from California's coastal terrain, with pops of anodised orange on key touchpoints adding contrast. And inside, vibrant orange highlights serve as a connection to desert sunsets and campfires, while the black leather base adds a tactile, grounded feel.