2028 Hyundai ute imagined using fresh Boulder concept

Earlier this month, Hyundai debuted its all-new Boulder concept as a preview of the upcoming ladder-frame 4x4 SUV and related ute models that’ll supposedly be with us by the end of 2027.

The Korean brand has a habit of making its production cars look a lot like the concepts that inspired them, meaning it’s been an easy job for digital creators to predict what Hyundai’s highly anticipated dual-cab workhorse will look like.

While badge engineering a Kia Tasman may not be Hyundai’s ideal scenario for the project, the controversially styled rig has been used for the basis of these unofficial renders, though it’s really only the passenger cell that looks especially familiar.

The Tasman is one of the bigger mid-sized utes on the market, so its outright stature also lends itself well here seeing as the Hyundai ute is tipped to be aimed primarily at the North American market.

That bold stature pairs well with the retro fascia of the Boulder concept which works to accentuate the body’s width and add an extra sense of ruggedness, especially without the Tasman’s gawking front apron that robs it of crucial frontal clearance.

There’s no indication of what resides under the bonnet, but Hyundai has been clear in suggesting the yet-to-be-named (publicly) ute will more than likely debut with a decent emphasis on electrification.

Whether that’s a hybrid, plug-in hybrid or range-extender remains to be seen, but it’s almost certain it won’t debut as an EV – though no doubt there’ll be an electric version along at some stage.

The Boulder front end is paired with an equally Boulder rear, save for the ‘HYUNDAI’ stamped tailgate. The bumpers at both ends have been ripped straight off the concept

Hyundai Australia has previously said the production ute would “cover both bases” in terms of being a workhorse and family vehicle.

“Australian buyers have very specific needs [towing, payload, durability] we want to address but we also know that we can’t come in with the same ute everyone else has,” local product planning and development boss Tim Rodgers told carsales in February.

“We need to be differentiated but answering the market … we want to get the right ute, not just any ute.”

Digital images: Kolesa

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