Hyundai Australia Commits to Homegrown Dual-Cab Ute to Challenge Ranger and HiLux

Overview

• Romano says the Australian-market ute will be Hyundai-developed rather than a rebadged Kia Tasman or a General Motors-based model.
• Hyundai is evaluating two paths, with a Ranger/HiLux-sized platform for Australia and a separate, larger GM-linked platform under consideration for other markets.
• The vehicle will target the mid-size, body-on-frame class dominated by Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux.
• Romano pledges to reveal firm details within about 2.5 to 3 years, framing it as a guarantee to deliver a clear plan and timeline.
• Hyundai promises differentiating technologies and hints at a non-plug-in hybrid approach, while reports of a range-extender setup remain unconfirmed.