2026 Montreal Auto Show: Hyundai’s CRATER Concept to Make Its Canadian Premiere

Hyundai Crater makes debut at Montreal Auto show

The Montréal Auto Show, presented by iA Auto and Home Insurance, taking place January 16 to 25, 2026, at the Palais des congrès de Montréal, is proud to announce that Hyundai Auto Canada will unveil the CRATER Concept in Canadian premiere. This bold, all-electric SUV is resolutely designed for adventure and will be showcased as part of the 2026 edition of the Show.

First unveiled globally at AutoMobility LA last November, the CRATER Concept will make its national debut in Montreal. It will be presented to the media during the Press Day on Thursday, January 15, 2026, before being accessible to the public throughout the ten days of the event.

“The Montreal Auto Show is an essential platform for major Canadian premieres and for showcasing innovations that are shaping the future of the automotive industry. We are very pleased to welcome Hyundai’s CRATER Concept, a vehicle that perfectly illustrates the evolution of electrified mobility while responding to the growing interest of visitors in rugged, versatile, outdoor-oriented vehicles,” said Luis Pereira, General Manager of the Montreal Auto Show.

An Electrified Vision Focused on Adventure 



Developed at the Hyundai America Technical Center in Irvine, California, the CRATER Concept is a fully electric off-road SUV that pushes the boundaries of design and durability. Created with North American adventurers in mind, it represents a bold styling exploration emphasizing ruggedness, off-road capability, and a commitment to sustainable mobility.

Key highlights of the concept include: 

  • “Art of Steel” design language, featuring sculpted fenders, pronounced approach and departure angles, and a unibody structure that enhances agility and strength; 
  • Fully electric powertrain, showcasing Hyundai’s commitment to electrification without compromising performance; 
  • North American inspiration, reflecting the spirit of exploration and versatility sought by Canadian and American drivers.

A Functional and Immersive Cabin

The interior of the CRATER Concept was designed for adventure and technology enthusiasts, with a strong focus on functionality, flexibility, and comfort. Durable materials, an exposed functional roll bar, integrated grab handles, and a reimagined cockpit create an environment that is both reassuring and welcoming.

The concept also stands out through several distinctive details, including a pixelated central display, terrain-specific drive modes (Snow, Sand, Mud, Auto, and XRT), and the presence of CRATER MAN, a symbolic character integrated into various elements throughout the vehicle.

Interactive Activations at the Hyundai Booth

In addition to showcasing the CRATER Concept, Hyundai Canada’s booth will offer visitors a series of interactive activations highlighting the brand’s partnerships and community engagement.

These include: 

  • Hyundai Hope on Wheels, which will feature a dedicated space, including the return of the participatory hockey-inspired challenge “Le Plus Bel Arrêt”, designed to generate donations in support of the organization; 
  • The Hyundai Playmaker Challenge, a fun and engaging activation celebrating Hyundai’s partnership with FIFA ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026™, where visitors can test their knowledge for a chance to win an exclusive FIFA-related experience. 

With this Canadian premiere and these immersive experiences, Hyundai fully aligns with the Montreal Auto Show’s goal of delivering a rich, innovative, and inspiring 2026 edition, appealing to automotive enthusiasts, families, and fans of new technologies alike.

Other articles from totimes.ca – otttimes.ca – mtltimes.ca

Behind The Moon play premieres in Montreal

Behind the Moon Reveals Dark Side of the Canadian Immigrant Experience

MONTREAL, April 10, 2026 — What begins as a chance encounter between an employee of a South Asian restaurant in Toronto and a taxi driver who arrives at closing time because he craves some Indian food turns into an expose that delves into the ugly side of the current wave of the immigrant experience in Canada.

Employer Branding in an Era of Digital Transparency

Employer Branding in an Era of Digital Transparency

Digital transparency transforms how organizations are perceived, especially in the context of talent attraction and retention. Public platforms and employee-generated content make internal culture a visible signal to job seekers. As the boundaries between internal experience and external reputation blur, credibility has become a critical differentiator for employers. Employer branding now unfolds in public view,

Harlem Globetrotters celebrate 100th in Montreal

Harlem Globetrotters 100th Tour Tips Off in Montreal and Laval

Tickets are still available to catch the Harlem Globetrotters’ 100 Year Tour, as it presents two games in the city: on April 17 at the Bell Centre, and April 18 at Place Bell in Laval. Holders of more than 60 Guinness World Records, the clown princes of basketball celebrate their centennial year with plenty of

Monty Python Legend to return Montreal this Fall

For the first time in 17 years, legendary Monty Python member/writer/producer/lecturer (and silly walk advocate) John Cleese returns to Montreal to prove to his legion of local fans that he is still alive and well, which explains why he has called his new tour “Not Dead Yet!”, and makes a one night only stop at

Beyond the Festival Circuit: How Montrealers are Embracing the New Digital Leisure

Montreal has always been a city of experiences. From the jazz-filled streets of the Plateau to the high-energy nightlife of Crescent Street, we are a community that thrives on atmosphere and social connection. However, as our local tech scene continues to boom, a new trend is quietly reshaping how we spend our downtime. Digital entertainment