Hyundai CRATER Concept making its Canadian Debut at the 2026 Montreal Auto Show
Dec 18, 2025
- Hyundai’s CRATER Concept will make its first-ever Canadian appearance at the 2026 Montreal International Auto Show following its global reveal at AutoMobility LA in November
- CRATER Concept is a bold, all-electric off-road SUV concept designed to push boundaries of rugged capability and sustainability.
BROSSARD, QC (December 18, 2025) – Hyundai Auto Canada is proud to announce that the CRATER Concept, a bold vision of future adventure and design innovation, will make its national debut at the 2026 Montreal International Auto Show, held at the Palais des congrès de Montréal from January 16 to 25, 2026.
Following its global unveiling at AutoMobility LA in November, the CRATER Concept will be showcased to Canadian media during the show’s press day on Thursday, January 15, before being presented to the public throughout the 10-day event.
“Quebec continues to be a cornerstone of Hyundai’s success in Canada. With record growth and strong dealer support in the province, the Montreal Auto Show is the perfect stage for the CRATER Concept’s Canadian debut,” says Steve Flamand, president and CEO of Hyundai Auto Canada. “Our presence at this year’s show is a testament to Hyundai’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and community engagement. The CRATER Concept embodies our vision for the future of electrified mobility—one that is adventurous, resilient, and designed with the idea that Hyundai is here to conquer any road ahead. Beyond our product showcase, we are proud to highlight meaningful partnerships and initiatives, such as Hyundai Hope on Wheels, our partnership with the National Hockey League, and Hyundai Motor Group’s partnership with FIFA, which all reflect our dedication to making a positive impact both on and off the road.”
A Vision of Rugged Electrification
The CRATER Concept is a futuristic, all-electric off-road SUV designed at Hyundai America Technical Center in Irvine, California. It is a design exploration that captures the spirit of adventure, pushing boundaries of toughness and capability to meet the desires of North American adventurers.
Key design highlights of the Crater Concept include:
- “Art of Steel Design Language” – Sculpted fenders, steep approach and departure angles, and a monocoque body for agility and strength.
- Electrified Performance – CRATER is fully electric, signaling Hyundai’s commitment to sustainable mobility without compromising off-road capability.
- North American Inspiration – Developed to reflect the spirit of exploration and versatility demanded by Canadian and U.S. customers.
Crater Concept Interior Design Language
The interior of the CRATER Concept has been designed for tech-savvy adventure seekers who prize rugged, function-first design and flexibility. Inside the CRATER Concept, technical shapes are wrapped in soft-yet-durable materials, resulting in a stylish, natural integration that delivers comfort, support, and practicality in any environment. Simultaneously tough yet warm, the CRATER Concept’s singular interior design starts with its high-brow crash pad, which bridges the vehicle’s exterior with its interior.
A functional roll cage outlines the cabin, adding tension and strength, while integrated grab handles ease ingress and egress. This exposed structural element provides a reassuring feeling of safety, reinforcing that CRATER Concept is built for confident exploration and resilience.
A centre-mounted pixel display reimages driver interaction on the squared-off steering wheel, while terrain mode buttons suggest quick switching to Snow, Sand, Mud, Auto, and XRT modes.
Crater Concept Interior Highlights:
- CRATER MAN – a symbolic character integrated throughout the vehicle, offering playful storytelling through ‘hidden surprises’ and interactive design elements
- Removable Bluetooth centre console main speaker
- Hidden aperture light at the dashboard edge revealing a playful light signature
- Easy-to-reach cylinder-type center controls mechanically linked to visual indicator lights
To learn more about the CRATER Concept, click here.
Engaging Activations Emphasize Hyundai’s Partnerships and Purpose
Hyundai Canada’s booth at the Montreal Auto Show will feature a series of dynamic activations designed to showcase the brand’s values, partnerships, and commitment to community impact.
Hyundai Hope on Wheels and The Greatest Save Challenge
Entering its second year in Canada as an officially registered non-profit organization, Hyundai Hope on Wheels will have a dedicated space within the booth, alongside an exciting update to Hyundai Canada’s popular hockey-themed activation. Building on previous years’ “Shootout Challenge,” the 2026 edition debuts as the Greatest Save, inspired by Hyundai’s “Greatest Save Program.” Guests will have 30 seconds to shoot rubber pucks at designated targets, with each successful hit triggering a donation to Hyundai Hope on Wheels.
Hyundai, FIFA and the Playmaker Challenge
On the opposite end of the booth, Hyundai celebrates its longstanding partnership with FIFA as the official mobility partner of the FIFA World Cup 2026™. The Hyundai Playmaker Challenge invites attendees to step into a training circle and test their knowledge with interactive trivia. Participants will kick a ball toward the correct answer and enter for a chance to win an exclusive FIFA-related experience.
“We invite media and guests to experience firsthand how Hyundai is shaping the future of mobility, championing causes that matter and delivering engaging experiences that go beyond the vehicle itself,” concludes Flamand.