Xavier Martinet, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Europe, introduced the Bayon at the 2026 Paris Motor Show. With the Bayon, the South Korean carmaker aims to strengthen its already comprehensive crossover/SUV catalogue. The model features a bold exterior design, with styling elements inspired by the firm’s Ioniq range. Aimed towards attracting new customers in this key segment, the European-spec units will be produced at Hyundai’s Turkey-based assembly facility.
Powertrains and performance
Initial internal combustion engine (ICE) models will employ a 1.0-litre T-GDI engine. The 1.0-litre, three-cylinder turbocharged petrol unit will be available in two states of tune: 66 and 85 kW, with a maximum torque outputs of 172 and 265 N.m. The turbo-triple is available with either a six-speed manual gearbox or seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. Depending on the engine/transmission configuration, the Bayon will complete the 0-100 km/h sprint in a claimed 10.8-14.1 seconds, with the top speed rated at 167-180 km/h. Set to arrive in 2027, the 1.6-litre hybrid (HEV) variant is equipped with a six-speed dual-clutch transmission and produces 101 kW. The HEV features adaptive regenerative braking.
Design, dimensions and boot space
The new compact SUV showcases a more angular interpretation of Hyundai’s ‘Art of Steel’ design philosophy. The Bayon features a sculpted bonnet, defined crease lines, strong body volumes, and pronounced wheel arches. LED headlamps, replete with ‘Static Bending Lights’, and a full-width rear LED light bar are also present. Exterior colour choices include three distinct matte options, namely Vibrant Blue Matte, Ice Blue Matte, and Fierce Red Matte. The N Line flagship derivative introduces mesh detailing, bumper winglets, high-gloss black body cladding, and 18-inch N Line alloy wheels. A rear diffuser with integrated twin exhaust outlets completes the N Line’s exterior.
The new Bayon measures 4 245 mm in length and 1 810 mm in width, making it 85 mm shorter yet 20 mm wider than the Creta. The overall height depends on powertrain and wheel specification. ICE models stand 1 565 mm tall on 16- and 17-inch wheels, and 1 570 mm tall when fitted with roof rails and 18-inch wheels. Rolling on 16- or 17-inch wheels, the HEV measures 1 555 mm in height. The Bayon’s wheelbase spans 2 600 mm.
The boot offers 440 litres of packing space on ICE models, Hyundai says. Additional storage can be found under the boot floor.
Technology and equipment
The interior places heavy emphasis on modern digital integration. The cabin plays host to dual 12.3-inch displays for instrumentation and infotainment, respectively. The touch-enabled infotainment system incorporated wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto screen mirroring. An eight-speaker Bose sound system is also present, with passengers benefiting from an (optional) Entertainment Package that provides streaming across major platforms.
The front seats are height adjustable, with the driver’s gaining lumbar support, and features heating and ventilation functionality. The reclining rear seats can be specified with heating at additional cost. Dual-zone climate control, replete with rear air vents, ambient lighting, and a panoramic sunroof are also present.
The firm has also equipped the Bayon with a comprehensive suite of safety systems. The latter includes Hyundai SmartSense driver assistance. Key features include a surround-view camera system, highway driving assist 2, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, forward collision avoidance, and rear cross-traffic collision avoidance.
Will the Hyundai Bayon launch in South Africa?
Hyundai’s local arm has yet to confirm whether the Bayon will be introduced to our market. As a reminder, the company’s current local crossover/SUV portfolio is already comprehensive, comprising such models as the Exter, Creta, Alcazar, Tucson, and Santa Fe.
