New Concept Turns Hyundai Veloster into Off-Road Monster

Hyundai is releasing a new Veloster Grappler concept at the SEMA aftermarket show in Las Vegas in November.

The concept gives Grappler’s three-door hatch an off-road treatment with more ground clearance and approach, as well as increased departure angles. Hyundai engineers also added custom brush guards in the front and back, oversized all-terrain tires on the “rally-inspired” Method Racing wheels. For better accommodation of this new tire setup, the automaker also gave the Grappler wider fenders and a modified front and rear fascia.

A Baja Designs light bar is also seated on the roof of the Grappler for a good view of the trail, right next to the Thule utility basket that hugely increases the vehicle’s cargo capacity. The utility basket also serves as a base mount for the removable solar panel, which also works as an electric portable power station.

At the SEMA show, the model is expected to draw attention with its exterior highlighted by a Hyundai-themed custom vinyl wrap and carbon-fiber hood.

For the interior, Hyundai gave the hatchback an integrated roll cage that provides room for a spare wheel and tire mount. The custom seats, meanwhile, are adorned with a vintage houndstooth-check pattern. More off-roading accessories are also found inside the car: traction mats, a utility shovel, Goal Zero mobile power station and crush lights, road-assistance kit, first-aid kit, and a Napier outdoor dome tent. All these are coupled with Hyundai’s own accessories such as sport pedals, sport shifter, all-weather floor mats, and ambient lighting system.

Should the company decide to give the Grappler a green light on production, customers will be treated to another Veloster specially made for the trail, joining the racetrack-specific Veloster N in the lineup.