Hyundai reveals new Bayon SUV

The Hyundai Bayon SUV has been revealed, and it will initially go on sale as a replacement for the i20 Active in multiple international markets.

The Bayon is Hyundai's answer to a number of crossover-SUVs sold overseas, starting with the Volkswagen T-Cross, Nissan Juke and the Ford Puma, to name a few. Bayon, pronounced as ‘Bye-Onn’, is inspired by the capital of France’s Basque country, which also reveals that the model is been specifically developed for and targeted at European car buyers.

Unique styling
The Bayon shares its underpinnings with the latest i20 but gets unique exterior styling that is quite similar to the recently updated Kona. These include the thin DRLs and arrow-shaped headlamps. The arrow-shaped theme also continues at the back, which gets a similar design. 

The Bayon SUV gets strong shoulder lines at the side, but the tapering roofline gives it more of a crossover-like look. Strong cladding all around and faux skid plates at the front and back give it a more rugged appearance. The Bayon does not come with any four- or all-wheel-drive gear and remains a front-wheel-drive vehicle, just like the i20.

The Hyundai Bayon gets a very familiar looking interior, as most of it is a direct lift from the i20. This includes the all-black dashboard, switchgear, steering wheel and even the 10.25-inch display.

Hyundai says the Bayon is an Urban-focused vehicle and its interior has been designed keeping in mind utility, space and comfort. A 2,580mm wheelbase (identical to the i20’s) allows front-seat passengers 1,072mm of legroom, while the rear seats offer 882mm, and the 411-litre boot can be extended to 1,205 litres with the split rear bench folded flat.

Two engine options
Two engine options are offered on the Bayon globally – a 1.2-litre petrol good for 84hp and a more powerful 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine with mild-hybrid tech that is available in two states of tune, a 100hp or a 120hp. The 1.0 turbo-petrol will be on offer in countries like the UK, which will not get the 1.2-litre engine. Gearbox options will include a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed iMT, depending on the engine.

Will it come to India?
There is no news on the Bayon making it to India. Hyundai is, however, readying a new micro-SUV that will be positioned below the Venue in India and will rival the upcoming Tata HBX (Timero). Additionally, the new Alcazar 6- and 7-seat SUV will hit the showrooms by June this year. Hyundai is also readying the i20 N-line for India, which could see a market launch sometime this year.