Hyundai Prepares a “Mind-Blowing” Pickup: The New Ford Ranger Rival Set to Shake Up the Segment

The Korean brand dives headfirst into the global midsize pickup battle with an in-house, hybrid, tech-heavy project that’s already generating huge anticipation.

Hyundai, a brand not traditionally associated with pickups, is ready to make a decisive leap. After decades selling the Porter in Korea and, more recently, the Santa Cruz, the company is now developing a new midsize pickup completely unrelated to its collaborations with General Motors. This model–initially aimed at Australia and key global markets–is designed to compete head-on with heavyweights like the Ford Ranger and the newly updated Toyota Hilux.

A 100% Hyundai Project With a New Kind of Hybrid Technology

The company’s plan revolves around launching a ladder-frame truck designed entirely in-house, sharing no platform with GM or the Kia Tasman, an option Hyundai dismissed as “unacceptable.” Don Romano, CEO of Hyundai Australia, was crystal clear when speaking to local media, claiming the upcoming model will be “mind-blowing” and will mark a turning point in the brand’s global strategy.

A key highlight will be its powertrain. Romano revealed that the pickup will use “a different type of hybrid”, strongly pointing toward an EREV (extended-range electric vehicle) setup. In this architecture, the gasoline engine functions exclusively as a generator, while the wheels are driven solely by electric motors, delivering a driving feel similar to a full EV.

Hyundai has already confirmed that its first EREVs will arrive in 2027, offering ranges of more than 965 kilometers (600 miles) and superior performance thanks to the instant torque of electric propulsion. This technology–designed for large, heavy vehicles–seems tailor-made for a work-focused midsize pickup, especially in markets where durability and efficiency are essential.

Competition, however, will be fierce. The debut of the new Toyota Hilux, paired with a wave of Chinese pickups challenging established brands, raises the bar across the board. Even so, Hyundai believes it can carve out its place in the segment by offering “unique technology,” hoping its innovation will outweigh its late arrival. As Romano put it: “Yes, we’re late, but we’re coming in stronger.”