The new Hyundai Bayon has been revealed. It will take on the Ford Puma, Nissan Juke and other small crossover SUVs in an ever-growing sector.
Derived from the Hyundai i20 supermini, the Bayon will become Hyundai’s smallest SUV and sit below the more rugged-looking Kona.
As it is a model focused on Europe, Hyundai has given it a European-inspired name: Bayonne is the capital of the French Basque Country.
The Bayon is one of seven new or facelifted models Hyundai has launched during the past year alone – a ‘record year for its fleet expansion’.
Styling is, following Hyundai’s recent new models including the Tucson, distinctive, with plenty of arrow-shaped elements.
Designer Luc Donckerwolke said it is a “unique and confident look, embodied in its strong lines and arrow-shaped lights… [it] is expected to establish itself as the most unique, outstanding entry in the thriving European B-CUV segment”.
Inside, there are two digital screens, with the central touchscreen measuring up to 10.25 inches. LED ambient lighting also features throughout the cabin.
Bose premium audio is optionally available, as is the Hyundai Bluelink connected car system, which includes a smartphone app.
The roomy Bayon has a commodious 411-litre boot – larger than a Volkswagen Golf – and the 4,180mm-long small SUV has ground clearance of up to 183mm, which Hyundai says is better than most models in this sector.
Only petrol engines are offered: a 1.0-litre turbo with 48v mild hybrid tech and either 100hp or 120hp outputs.
Buyers can choose from manual or automatic gearboxes. The ‘intelligent manual transmission’ six-speed becomes Hyundai’s first SUV to feature rev-matching, for smoother downshifts.
This is a feature previously reserved for the high-performance Hyundai i30 N hot hatch.
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