Hyundai Unveils All-New Bayon Subcompact Crossover

While French and European brands captured widespread attention at the Paris Motor Show, Hyundai delivered a notable highlight of its own: the second-generation Bayon. Featuring a bold, angular redesign that borrows heavy styling cues from the Tucson, this subcompact crossover makes a strong case as a potential successor to the Venue in North American showrooms.

Sizing and Dimensions

In Hyundai’s European lineup, the second-generation Bayon slots between the ultra-compact Inster (Casper) and the larger Kona. If positioned in the US, it would naturally bridge the space between the Venue and the Kona:

• Length: Approximately 8 inches longer than the Venue, yet roughly 4 inches shorter than the Kona.
• Width: Nearly identical in width to the Kona, giving it a stable, planted footprint despite its subcompact classification.

Exterior and Interior Styling

Departing sharply from its predecessor’s sloping front end and swept-back triangular lighting, the new Bayon embraces a tougher, boxier aesthetic:

• Exterior: A taller, upright front nose, squared-off roofline, flared fenders, and sharp character lines mimic the rugged design language seen across Hyundai’s larger SUVs.
• Interior: A clean dashboard setup features twin digital screens up to 12.3 inches each, housed in a unified monolithic display. The narrow center stack features vertical HVAC vents and tactile buttons arranged like a dial pad.
• Premium Options: Higher trims offer equipment rarely seen in the budget subcompact bracket, including a Bose audio system, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and a panoramic sunroof.

Powertrain and Performance Options

Hyundai offers the new Bayon with traditional turbocharged engines alongside an all-new hybrid option:

The new hybrid system shares its architecture with the Kia Niro hybrid, promising fuel economy figures that could easily rival the Niro’s 50 mpg combined rating given the Bayon’s lighter curb weight.