2030 Hyundai Midsize Pickup TruckMotorTrendWhat It IsWait, doesn't Hyundai already make a truck? Yes—the unibody Santa Cruz—but that model is likely to be dropped next year to make room for something bigger and far more rugged. The yet-unnamed pickup will be the first to ride on Hyundai's upcoming body-on-frame architecture introduced with the Hyundai Boulder Concept from this year's 2026 New York auto show. When the pickup arrives by 2030, it'll challenge segment stalwarts like the Toyota Tacoma, Ford Ranger, and Chevy Colorado for midsize truck dominance.Why It MattersA brand-new platform from any automaker is always intriguing, but even more so from one that has never done a body-on-frame pickup before. It'll be fascinating to see Hyundai's interpretation of this popular segment, and even more so to hear how fans and buyers respond: Pickup truck owners and off-roading enthusiasts tend to be a very stubborn and loyal bunch.We wouldn't bet against the truck's success, though, if only because Hyundai's recent endeavors into new territory such as EVs and performance vehicles have been so successful. It's clear the automaker is prepared to put the resources behind whatever it sets its mind to. Plus, Hyundai has committed to a full line of body-on-frame vehicles beyond the truck as well as the expansion of the XRT off-road subbrand. There's no way the company will let all of that fail.MotorTrendShould the Boulder concept point the way stylistically, we really dig the pixelated front light signature—a retro-futuristic element that would definitely stand out in the segment. We also hope the external reservoir shocks, a modular roof system, and longitudinal hood vents carry through to production.AdvertisementAdvertisementTo be fully competitive, the truck will need a true four-wheel-drive transfer case, not just an all-wheel-drive setup, and our rendering shows what would be the truck's most rugged version. More mainstream variants might lose the tow hooks, sit lower to the ground, and almost certainly have smaller wheels and tires.Platform and PowertrainThe platform part of this puzzle is easy. What's not as obvious is what'll power the truck when it arrives. A turbocharged four-cylinder could serve as the entry point, with a higher-performing hybrid version offering better towing and off-roading capabilities. Or Hyundai may forgo four-cylinders altogether and start with a naturally aspirated V-6 at the bottom of the ladder, and strap twin-turbos to the V-6 for uplevel, performance, or off-road versions. It's unlikely the truck will offer an EV powertrain; any electrification will come in the form of a hybrid setup.Estimated Price $35,000Expected On-Sale Date 2030
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