Hyundai has officially confirmed plans to enter the global mid-size pickup segment. The South Korean automaker revealed a new body-on-frame truck in its latest investor roadmap. It will directly challenge the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger. The pickup is expected to launch in international markets within the next few years. Carscoops has already shared a photo of the upcoming model.
Same Platform Could Also Spawn an SUV
The ladder-frame chassis will not be used for just one model. Hyundai could develop an off-road SUV on the same platform. It would rival the Toyota Fortuner in the premium three-row segment. Toyota already uses this strategy with the Hilux and Fortuner. Isuzu follows a similar approach with its D-Max and MU-X. If Hyundai follows suit, it could gain a strong global off-road SUV contender. For India, such a model would be a game changer. The Fortuner currently holds a strong grip in this segment.
Boulder Name Already Patented in India
Hyundai has filed patents for the name Boulder in India. Reports link the Boulder program to upcoming body-on-frame models. The company could develop both a pickup and an SUV under this project. Hyundai mentioned an off-road focused SUV for India by 2030. However, the company has not officially confirmed Boulder as the final name. Both models would share the same base architecture and mechanical components. The strategy would mirror the Hilux-Fortuner playbook closely.
Mahindra Also Enters Lifestyle Pickup Race
India’s lifestyle pickup segment is heating up fast. Mahindra is preparing to enter this space too. It recently showcased a Scorpio-based lifestyle pickup. Currently, the Toyota Hilux and Isuzu V-Cross dominate this category. Hyundai and Mahindra will bring more options for Indian buyers. The growing competition will benefit customers with better pricing and features. Buyers will soon have far more choice in this segment.
