The latest on Hyundai’s new ute: Pandemic hasn’t derailed dual-cab plans

Good news, ute fans. The Coronavirus hasn’t derailed Hyundai’s plans to launch a new dual-cab ute, with work on a true Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger rival so far unaffected by the international pandemic.

Hyundai and Kia have previously confirmed work had begun on a new dual-cab, with former Hyundai chief JW Lee having told CarsGuide he had been asking his Korean counterparts to deliver a ute as soon as possible, with 2023 the planned launch date.

“The sooner the better,” Mr Lee told us last year. “All the time I’m crying and praying whenever I have the chance to bring this issue to headquarters, so the sooner the better.

“(But) 2023 is our target year. It depends on production and the plant. I think the candidate plant is still under study, where we’re going to produce those vehicles is yet to be decided.”

While much of the vehicle is still shrouded in mystery, and Hyundai in Australia is understandably keen to keep it that way until closer to a potential launch date, the brand has confirmed that the Coronavirus hasn’t altered plans to produce a true Toyota HiLux rival. 

Asked whether previous reports – that work had begun on the dual-cab ute – had changed as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic, Hyundai answered “no”, though added that there was nothing new they could say at this point. 

Apart from that, though, Hyundai is keeping tight-lipped about the project. Though we have learned some exciting things in the past.

For now, though, you’ll have to watch this space.