Hyundai to Lock in Ute Plans by End of 2025: What It Means for Australian Drivers

Exciting news is on the horizon for Aussie ute lovers—Hyundai is preparing to make a major move. According to Hyundai Motor Company Australia’s new CEO, Don Romano, the Korean carmaker is set to finalise plans for its long-anticipated ute by the end of 2025. And at Tynan Hyundai Kirrawee, we're watching every development closely as this marks a pivotal moment in Hyundai's journey to meet the rugged demands of Australian roads.

Hyundai's Missing Piece in the Australian Market

Despite the booming popularity of utes in Australia, Hyundai has remained one of the few mainstream carmakers without one in its local lineup. That’s about to change. After years of speculation, Hyundai is on track to launch a ute designed to cater to both the Australian and global markets.

Don Romano confirmed the commitment, saying:

“We’re not there, we’re going to be there this year... We’re going to come up with a solution that everybody can say, ‘yeah, this works for me.’”

What Will the Hyundai Ute Look Like?

While the exact specs are still under wraps, Romano hinted at several possibilities. A battery-electric ute (BEV) is in development, and last year’s Ioniq T10 trademark filing in Australia lends weight to that future-forward option.

Other possibilities include a ute built on the same platform as the new Kia Tasman, which shares its DNA with Hyundai as part of the same automotive group. A diesel or hybrid ute also remains on the table to help accelerate the rollout.

At Tynan Hyundai Kirrawee, many of our customers ask for a mid-size, body-on-frame ute to rival market leaders like the Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux. Romano echoed this sentiment, noting:

“That’s what sells here, that’s what customers want. I think every major manufacturer has one, and I don’t think you can be a viable brand without one.”

Electric vs Diesel: What’s Best for Australia?

Romano is candid about the challenges. While he prefers a more traditional diesel or hybrid option to start, Hyundai is still keeping its sights on an electric future.

“Whether we go with an electric ute, it would not be my preference, but I would take it and that is something that is already under development,” he said.

Given Australia's vast landscapes and the current limitations in EV infrastructure across remote areas, a phased rollout that includes diesel or hybrid powertrains may provide the most practical solution—at least initially.

A Solution in Sight by Late 2025

Though there’s still a lot to be finalised, Hyundai’s commitment is stronger than ever. Romano revealed that internal discussions are happening at the highest levels:

“Almost all my discussions... are to provide input in this area... I’ve never seen our company so committed to figuring this problem out.”

This determination means that customers at Tynan Hyundai Kirrawee and beyond may soon have access to a Hyundai ute tailored specifically for Australian conditions.

Stay Tuned with Tynan Hyundai Kirrawee

At Tynan Hyundai Kirrawee, we’re just as excited as you are about Hyundai’s bold new direction. Whether it’s an electric model or a tough, diesel-powered workhorse, we’ll be ready to deliver the newest innovations as soon as they hit Australian shores.

Bookmark our blog, follow us on social media, or visit our dealership to stay ahead of the curve on Hyundai’s ute plans and other exciting launches.

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Credit: CarExpert.com.au