Hyundai Bayon SUV to launch in India during

Hyundai will launch the Bayon midsize SUV in India during the festive season. The model will be one of two new nameplates for Hyundai India in the 2027 financial year.

The Bayon is designed to compete in the popular midsize SUV segment but will adopt a different positioning from the existing Creta. Hyundai's strategy involves a two-pronged approach to occupy both the lower and higher rungs of the segment, with the Bayon taking the more affordable role.

Positioning and Portfolio

In Hyundai's India portfolio, the Bayon will slot between the Venue compact SUV and the Creta. The Bayon will be positioned below the Creta, with the latter offering wider powertrain choices, including a planned hybrid version in its next generation due in 2027.

Design and Styling

Design sketches and spy shots reveal the Bayon will sport a crossover-esque design rather than a boxy SUV stance. Its front fascia features a split-headlamp setup with a half-split H-shaped signature for the daytime running lamps and a scuff plate on the bumper. The profile shows an upward-kinked window line, pull-type door handles, flared wheel arches, and dual-tone alloy wheels. A roof-mounted spoiler and LED tail-lamps with a signature similar to the front DRLs characterise the rear.

Powertrain and Features

The India-spec Bayon is quite different from the global model, receiving a completely different top hat and interior. It will likely be powered by the Creta's 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, paired with manual and CVT gearbox options. Notably, it will be the first Hyundai model over 4 metres in length to offer CNG power, likely using the same 1.5-litre engine with an underbody-mounted tank.

The interior shows a layout similar to the Brazil-spec fourth-generation i20. It includes a Venue-like curved dual-screen setup, a vertically oriented centre console with physical knobs, and a likely black-and-white theme. Spy images show a three-spoke steering wheel with a four-dot motif signifying 'H' in Morse code. Hyundai is expected to equip the Bayon with a lengthy feature list, including a sunroof, ventilated front seats, a wireless phone charger, a 360-degree camera, and a level 2 ADAS suite.

Price and Rivals

The Bayon is expected to be priced between Rs 9 lakh and Rs 14 lakh (ex-showroom). It will compete with rivals including the Maruti Vitara Brezza, MG Astor, Volkswagen Taigun, Honda Raise, and Skoda Kushaq.