Sketches only tell one part of the story with the ones Hyundai released of the Crater concept appearing to show off an SUV that is poised to bring Hyundai into the raw and trail covered world of off-roading. The concept has now moved from mere sketches into the flesh, just in time for the L.A. Auto Show.

Crater is just as great in the real world as it is in fiction

Usually, sketches go on the wild side when it comes to certain styling elements but the real concept vehicle thankfully retains some of the swagger that the drawings projected. Large 33-inch off-rad tires and stylish wheels that promote a stylish yet futuristic look. The Crater also comes with the same digital camo that is also seen on the Ioniq 5 XRT.

Hyundai also equipped the concept with over half a dozen auxiliary lights and the pixel themed design is the wildest we have seen yet on a Hyundai. Oh and get used to seeing the concept’s mascot “Crater Man who serves as the logo for the concept with the mascot appearing in multiple areas of the vehicle including the dashboard and even the seat belt buckles.

The interior is also firmly in the world of science fiction with the cabin getting an exotic cylindrical structure that’s “suspended” by two straps. The four small screens on board are removable and can be used to display a wide range of widgets including Spotify. The Crater also debuts the “Curve of Upholstery” with the entire cabin being wrapped in soft-touch materials with not one ounce of hard plastic anywhere.

In Hyundai tradition, the company didn’t reveal what’s actually powering the concept but expect it to be an all-electric powertrain lifted from the Ioniq 5 which would give the Crater 320 hp though we suspect the Crater’s unit has enough juice to move it on and off its spot in Hyundai’s booth.

Crater is not heading to production, for now

For now, Hyundai is not intending to bring the Crater to production but as with other concepts in the past, the company might change its tune depending on how much positive feedback it gets from show attendees.

While this explanation does hold weight since a production version would have a monumental task on its shoulders in not only trying to compete with the Jeep Wrangler but also the Ford Bronco the proverbial #1 and #2 selling off-roaders in the market.

Instead, the Crater could actually be serving as a rolling preview of what the company has in store for other Hyundai models. The company’s current crop of XRT products vary when it comes to the art of looking rugged with the soft looking Ioniq 5 XRT being balanced out by more rugged affairs like the Santa Fe and Palisade. As they say, nothing is for sure, and Hyundai might have a surprise or two in store.