Patent images for the production version of Hyundai's ladder-frame Boulder SUV concept, which was showcased at the New York Auto Show, have emerged. The vehicle is set to rival the Defender, Wrangler, and Bronco.
Hyundai has now set its sights on a much more serious off-road league. The Boulder SUV, which was showcased as a concept at the recent New York Auto Show and features the brand's first ladder-frame architecture, is preparing for mass production.
Images revealed through an official application to the Indian Patent Office in May showcased a version of the concept model very close to mass production. The Boulder, which will also pave the way for a mid-size pickup model towards 2030, will be positioned as a pure off-road beast.
Wild and Muscular "Art of Steel" Design
While the new Tucson with its "Art of Steel" design is much tougher than its predecessor, the Boulder pushes the boundaries for the Korean manufacturer in this regard. Its flat and high hood line is complemented by slim rectangular LED headlights, vertical daytime running lights, and a massive lower grille. Exposed tow hooks and a skid plate are located beneath the bumper.
The model stands out with its boxy, angular fenders and massive 37-inch off-road tires, featuring raked A-pillars that nod to the Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler. At the rear, details such as the externally mounted spare tire and the downward-sliding tailgate window are retained.
Advanced Technological Cabin and Pleos Connect
Although images of the production cabin have not yet been revealed, the wide horizontal dashboard, robust materials, and physical buttons from the concept model are expected to be retained.
Instead of the concept's quad-screen layout, the vehicle will feature a massive central infotainment screen running the Pleos Connect infrastructure. This Android Automotive-based system includes connected navigation, an app store, over-the-air (OTA) updates, and the Gleo AI voice assistant.
The Hyundai Boulder, which will be built on a new ladder-frame platform made from US-produced steel, is expected to share some mechanical components with the Kia Tasman or feature a new architecture directly focused on North America.
The following options stand out in the potential engine lineup:
- 2.5-Liter Turbo Gasoline Hybrid: 330 HP
- Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV): 400 HP
- Full Electric Versions: Especially for the North American market.
- 2.2-Liter Turbo Diesel: Producing 207 HP and combined with an 8-speed automatic transmission, this engine is being considered for global markets.
Boulder's off-road capabilities include four-wheel drive (4WD) with front and rear differential locks, a locking transfer case, independent front suspension, a solid rear axle, and a tank turn function that allows the vehicle to rotate on its own axis.
0 Comments: