Hyundai previews huge SUV

HYUNDAI has provided another glimpse of its next-generation design direction with the HDC-2 Grandmaster SUV concept that could also point to a future full-size three-row SUV model.

 

Uncovered overnight at the Busan motor show in South Korea, the HDC-2 Grandmaster follows the Le Fil Rouge HDC-1 concept from this year’s Geneva show that ushered in Hyundai’s new “sensuous sportiness” design language.

 

The Grandmaster builds on the new styling theme and Hyundai says it shows what it could look like when applied to an SUV body style.

 

However, it could be more than a mere design study. Hyundai is expected to offer an upper-large SUV to sit above the Santa Fe large SUV in its line-up, and the concept gives the best glimpse of it yet.

 

As GoAuto has reported, sister brand Kia has already confirmed it will build a production version of the hulking Telluride SUV concept that was revealed at the 2016 Detroit motor show.

 

Telluride test mules have been spotted testing in various locations and a reveal is expected later this year or early into 2019.

 

International reports have speculated that the Hyundai-badged version that will share its underpinnings with the Telluride and could score the Palisade moniker, but this is yet to be confirmed.

 

An upper-large Hyundai SUV could compete against models including the Toyota LandCruiser, and Nissan Patrol.

 

Hyundai has not revealed any technical details, nor has it released images of the interior, but the Grandmaster – derived from a chess game – features a large front grille with integrated headlights, large proportions and massive wheels.

 

Vice-president and head of Hyundai styling SangYup Lee said the concept is the next step in creating an identifiable Hyundai ‘look’.

 

“Today we showcased the HDC-2 concept vehicle as a blueprint for our evolved design strategy,” he said.

 

“Making a big step forward in terms of design with the Hyundai Look strategy, we will move towards becoming a brand that customers can really relate to emotionally.

 

“Moving on from being a brand that provides a great value, we will aspire to also become a brand that is widely beloved by our customers.”

 

At its press conference in Busan, Hyundai further detailed its ‘N’ performance brand global strategy.

 

The company confirmed that the portfolio would expand to not only include high-performance N models such as the i30 and Veloster N, but also N Line variants that will feature performance and design enhancements, as well as ‘N Option’ that includes customisation parts by N that will be available for the entire Hyundai line-up.

 

Hyundai said at the motor show that the market response to the i30 N has been so positive that the company is considering increasing production volume of its hot hatch contender.

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