Performance bakkies. Yes, it’s a thing, and if reports are to be believed, Hyundai might be keen to get in on the action.

Remember the Hyundai Santa Cruz Concept that set the internet alight back in 2015? As you may know, it was given the green light for production in 2017 and you can expect to see the production version in 2020 or perhaps even in 2021 or 2022. Who knows? Hyundai is taking its time with this one…

What we do know is that it will feature Hyundai’s latest design language which means it’s won’t look like the 2015 concept.

Read more:Hyundai Kia Working on Double-Cab Bakkie for 2022

It gets more interesting though, reports are suggesting that Hyundai might be considering a high-performance N version of its new bakkie which will go head-to-head with the recently-introduced Ford Ranger Raptor.

To rival the Raptor effectively, Hyundai will have to create a stylish bakkie while also beefing up offroad credentials with a long-travel suspension and a capable powertrain. Reports are pointing to the possibility of the i30N’s turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine being uprated to 225 kW and being called to duty. This, however, is just speculation, for now…

The Ford Ranger Raptor was the first high-performance offroad bakkie to come to market and other manufacturers are introducing beefed-up offroad products to claim a share of this niche segment of the bakkie market. For example, Toyota recently launched the Hilux GR Sport and even Isuzu is getting stuck in by offering its large-and-in-charge D-Max Arctic AT 35.

As for the forthcoming Hyundai bakkie, it better be good…

Watch our video review of the Ford Ranger Raptor below!