The Hyundai Boulder concept is the LR Defender rival you never knew you needed

Meet the Hyundai Boulder. It’s a rugged off-road concept that’s giving all kinds of Land Rover Defender vibes – and looks fit to take on the Dakar Rally.

We’re told it previews Hyundai’s first body-on-frame architecture, a new platform that the carmaker has confirmed will underpin a mid-size pickup that’s due in the US by 2030. Sadly, it’s unlikely we’ll ever see it on UK shores. Boo!

And if the production pickup is anything like this Boulder concept, it'll certainly look the part. Just check out those boxy lines. The raised ride height, which offers “aggressive” approach, departure and breakover angles. And, of course, those monster 37-inch tyres.

Elsewhere, pick out the roof-mounted lightbar, safari-style fixed upper windows, coach-style doors, and low-profile roof rack for packing any camping gear. Oh, and the full-size spare wheel, just in case you find yourself in a spot of bother off the beaten track.

Hidden Easter eggs include a drop-down rear window for letting the great outdoors in (just perhaps not on an actual safari), plus a double-hinged rear tailgate that opens from either side for easier loading/unloading. Versatile thing, this.

Step inside and the cabin feels fit for purpose too. You’re greeted by hard wearing materials, four digital gauges showcasing all your off-roading details, and physical knobs and buttons for essential functions. Nope, those’ll never catch on…

We’re also told that it gets a real-time off-road guidance system that acts “like a digital spotter sitting shotgun”. Beats Google Maps, we’re guessing. There’s no word on any sort of powertrain – indeed, we’re told it’s a “pure design study”. 

Shame. But hey, make enough noise, and you never know what Hyundai might do…