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Hyundai's upcoming off-road SUV could enter India's premium ladder-frame SUV segment. A new global pickup platform could also underpin the SUV. Hyundai's rugged Boulder concept could offer clues about the future India-bound SUV.
Hyundai could be preparing a new off-road SUV for India that may eventually take on the Toyota Fortuner. The possibility comes after the carmaker confirmed plans for a new global midsize pickup based on a body-on-frame platform, while also announcing an off-road-focused SUV for India by 2030.
Hyundai has not confirmed whether the two projects will be related, but a shared platform could allow the company to develop both a pickup and SUV from the same architecture.
New Hyundai SUV Could Get Body-on-Frame Platform
The upcoming Hyundai midsize pickup will use a ladder-frame construction, marking a major departure from the monocoque platforms used by most of the company’s current SUVs.
A body-on-frame platform is better suited to demanding off-road conditions and can support four-wheel-drive systems. It also provides Hyundai with the flexibility to develop multiple models from the same architecture. Toyota follows a similar approach with the Hilux and Fortuner, while Isuzu uses shared underpinnings for the D-Max and MU-X.
Also Read: Kia India Sales Rise 48% in August – Syros EV Gets Strong Response
Fortuner Rival for India Possible
Hyundai has already confirmed that an off-road-focused SUV is planned for India by 2030. The company has not revealed its name or technical details, but the new global body-on-frame programme could provide the foundation for such a model.
If Hyundai develops an SUV derivative from its new pickup platform, it could be positioned as a more premium and capable alternative to the Fortuner. The Indian market could also benefit from Hyundai's focus on modern features, connected technology and electrified powertrains. A hybrid version could eventually be considered, although there is no confirmation yet.
What About Hyundai Boulder?
The Hyundai Boulder concept could be another clue. The rugged SUV was previewed with a boxy design, large off-road tyres, flared wheel arches and prominent skid plates. Its patent design has also surfaced in India.
Reports have previously linked the Boulder programme with Hyundai's upcoming body-on-frame products. This has led to speculation that the concept could eventually evolve into an India-focused off-road SUV.
However, Hyundai has not confirmed that the production model will be called Boulder or that it will use the same platform as the upcoming pickup.
New Hyundai Pickup to Rival Hilux
Hyundai's new pickup will target established midsize models such as the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger in global markets. The company has not revealed the pickup's powertrain or exact launch timeline yet. However, the new architecture is expected to support the kind of rugged hardware required for both work and recreational use. A related SUV would allow Hyundai to make better use of the platform while entering another growing segment.
Also Read: Kia’s New Hybrid MPV Is Coming – Carnival Hybrid India Details
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