Hyundai’s Long-Awaited Ute: What We Know So Far at Tynan Hyundai Kirrawee

For years, ute buyers in Australia have been asking: When will Hyundai launch a ute? At Tynan Hyundai Kirrawee, we’ve been watching this question gather momentum — and now there are fresh signs that Hyundai is actively working on its long-anticipated entry into Australia’s competitive ute market.

While an official release is still years away, Hyundai’s plans for a ladder-frame workhorse ute are beginning to take shape. Here’s everything we know so far about the ute that could eventually take on the market leaders — the Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux — and potentially change the landscape for ute buyers at Tynan Hyundai Kirrawee.

Hyundai’s Ute Gap Set to Be Filled

Hyundai Australia’s newly appointed CEO, Don Romano, has made it clear that introducing a ute is one of his top priorities during his tenure in Australia. Speaking recently, he acknowledged:

“We are the only major brand without a ute. There is an opportunity, and we have to be part of that opportunity. My goal in three years is to get a production plan in place.”

While a confirmed launch date is still several years away, Romano’s comments mark Hyundai’s clearest commitment yet to delivering a Hyundai ute for Australian buyers.

Hyundai Aims to Rival Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux

Hyundai’s future ute will not be a small SUV-based model like the Hyundai Santa Cruz (currently sold only in North America), but instead a true ladder-frame workhorse — putting it squarely in competition with heavyweights like the Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux.

At Tynan Hyundai Kirrawee, this is exactly the type of ute our customers have been asking for: a tough, practical vehicle suited for both work and recreation — with the reliability and value Hyundai is known for.

Diesel vs Hybrid: Hyundai’s Powertrain Dilemma

Unlike some competitors, Hyundai is taking a cautious approach to offering a diesel-only option, citing Australia’s incoming New Vehicle Efficiency Standards (NVES), which will place strict limits on CO2 emissions.

While Hyundai hasn’t completely ruled out diesel for its new ute, Romano was clear that any diesel offering would likely be short-term:

“I’d rather have a unique drivetrain in four years than a diesel in one year that could cost me more money down the road.”

Instead, Hyundai is exploring a range of electrified powertrain options, including:

• Hybrid (HEV)
• Plug-in hybrid (PHEV)
• Potential fully electric options in the future

With brands like BYD, GWM, and Ford already exploring PHEV utes, it’s likely that Hyundai’s first ute could feature plug-in hybrid technology that delivers both strong towing capacity and lower emissions — a smart solution for both personal and fleet buyers in Australia.

Platform Possibilities: Kia Tasman or GM Collaboration?

One of the key technical decisions for Hyundai’s ute will be which platform it will use. Two main options are being considered:

1️⃣ Kia Tasman Platform (Hyundai Group’s Own Architecture)

Since Kia is part of the Hyundai Group, adapting the body-on-frame ladder chassis used in the upcoming Kia Tasman ute is a logical choice. Romano has called this the “plan one” scenario and praised the platform’s suitability for tough conditions.

2️⃣ GM Partnership

A memorandum of understanding (MOU) with General Motors (GM) could allow Hyundai access to American ute platforms like the Chevrolet Colorado and Silverado. However, foreign exchange rates and potential tariff concerns could complicate this path.

At this stage, the Kia Tasman’s architecture remains Hyundai’s most likely base — but with Hyundai's own unique styling and drivetrain direction.

No Santa Cruz for Australia (For Now)

Some buyers have hoped the Hyundai Santa Cruz could be an option for Australia, but Romano has stated there’s “zero chance” of that happening under current economic conditions. However, he has left the door slightly ajar, noting:

“If forex changes, I could change my mind.”

For now, Hyundai remains focused on developing a true heavy-duty ute to meet Australian market expectations.

What This Means for Customers at Tynan Hyundai Kirrawee

Although Hyundai’s new ute is still in development and years away from launch, interest among ute buyers at Tynan Hyundai Kirrawee is already building. Once it arrives, Hyundai’s ute will offer:

• A genuine alternative to the Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux
• Cutting-edge hybrid or plug-in hybrid drivetrain options
• Hyundai’s renowned reliability, technology, and value
• Rugged body-on-frame construction ideal for Australian conditions

Our team at Tynan Hyundai Kirrawee will be ready to provide the latest updates, pre-order opportunities, and expert guidance as Hyundai moves closer to confirming its new ute for Australia.

Register Your Interest with Tynan Hyundai Kirrawee

If you're a ute buyer who wants to be among the first to hear official updates on Hyundai’s upcoming ute, contact the team at Tynan Hyundai Kirrawee today to:

• Register your interest
• Receive exclusive updates as more details are announced
• Learn more about Hyundai’s current SUV and vehicle lineup while you wait

👉 Tynan Hyundai Kirrawee — your local Hyundai experts for the Sutherland Shire and beyond.

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Credit: GoAuto.com.au