SUV range from Hyundai: we get behind the wheel of the Hyundai Bayon

With the enormous success SUVs are having in the market, every manufacturer is trying to bring this kind of styling and product to several segments in order to reach a broad range of customers. Now, even if you use your car in the city and never head out to the countryside, you can enjoy the essence of an SUV in a B or C segment.

Hyundai reminded us during a presentation that they have a wide range of SUV models: Bayon, Kona, Tucson and Santa Fe. Of all of them, since we have already tried the new Hyundai Tucson, we have decided to get behind the wheel of the entry-level SUV in the Hyundai range: the Bayon.

Distinctive design and plenty of space: Hyundai Bayon

The manufacturer’s SUV range from South Korea starts with the Bayon, which goes straight into the B segment with its 4.18-metre length. At first glance it may seem very close in dimensions to the Kona, but it sits one step below it and has a more attractive starting price.

Outside, the Hyundai Bayon stands out for its front end, which follows the line set by other models from the brand, but especially for its rear, with light clusters that give it plenty of personality. It is one of those very distinctive designs that won’t leave you indifferent.

Inside, it stands out for its relative spaciousness, with enough room in both the front and rear seats. The boot surprises with its 411-litre capacity (more than its bigger sibling, the Kona). The interior materials are decent, but you won’t find soft plastics, and the fit and finish meet expectations.

At the wheel: mild hybrid with ECO label and up to 120 CV

The engine range consists of petrol engines ranging from 85 CV to 120 CV, with the 1.0 T-GDi three-cylinder versions (100 and 120 CV) standing out in particular, moving this B-SUV with great ease. It even features mild-hybrid technology, which earns it the ECO label.

We tested the 120 CV 1.0 T-GDi version with the dual-clutch automatic gearbox, an ideal combination for those looking for comfort behind the wheel and a certain dynamism, provided by an engine with plenty of power, a gearbox that works flawlessly, and the lightness of the Bayon itself.

Among the standard equipment, the Hyundai SmartSense package stands out, which includes as standard lane departure warning, smart cruise control and traffic sign recognition. In terms of entertainment, it also features a screen of up to 10.25 inches with smartphone connectivity.

The Hyundai Bayon is available from 19,890 euros, while the ECO-labelled version starts at 21,390 euros with the 100 CV 1.0 T-GDi engine. Although its bigger siblings in the range have better finishes, this Bayon is appealing for its value for money, with decent interior space and agile handling on the road (ideal for urban environments).

Photos | Diego G. Moreira

Technical specifications of this car

CrossoverHyundai BAYON6 versions · from 25,060 €