Hyundai is preparing the second-generation Bayon, bringing a more rugged SUV design, a redesigned cabin and a broader range of potential powertrains to its smallest European SUV.
Hyundai is putting the finishing touches on the new-generation Bayon, a small SUV that shares its mechanical foundations with the i20 hatchback. While the current model has a distinctly crossover-inspired appearance, its successor is expected to adopt a more upright, boxy design influenced by Hyundai’s larger SUVs. Inside, however, the new Bayon will reportedly take a different approach, with a digital cockpit and a cabin layout closely related to the latest i20.
The second-generation Hyundai Bayon is expected to make its debut in India in the coming weeks, most likely with local production. From there, the model should reach several international markets, including Europe and the Middle East. North America is unlikely to be part of the plan, with the similarly sized Hyundai Venue expected to continue serving that market.
A More Rugged Look for the New Hyundai Bayon
Official design sketches released by Hyundai confirm several details previously revealed by photographs of camouflaged prototypes. The new Bayon will move away from the rounded, hatchback-like proportions of its predecessor and adopt a more substantial SUV appearance.
The design follows Hyundai’s “Art of Steel” design language, characterized by sharper surfaces, stronger geometric forms and a more pronounced sense of width. The front end features split LED lighting, while large skid plates and sculpted fenders reinforce the model’s rugged character.
A rising window line toward the rear adds visual tension to the side profile. Together with the more upright body, these elements give the new Bayon a tougher appearance than the current model.
The change is not entirely unexpected. Hyundai’s latest i20, introduced in South America several months ago, has evolved into a crossover-style hatchback. That shift reduces the space for a Bayon that looks too similar to its donor model. At the same time, the market continues to show strong demand for SUVs with a more adventurous appearance—even when most examples will spend their entire lives on urban roads.
New Hyundai Bayon Interior: Digital Screens and Physical Controls
The cabin of the new Hyundai Bayon is expected to be significantly different from the exterior. Rather than simply carrying over the current interior, Hyundai appears to be developing a dashboard inspired by the latest-generation i20.
Higher-spec versions of the new i20 feature a digital cockpit with two 12.3-inch displays, and a similar arrangement is expected to become available in the Bayon. The exact equipment and screen sizes will likely vary depending on trim level and market.
One particularly welcome detail is Hyundai’s continued use of physical controls. The center console is expected to retain three traditional rotary dials, providing a more straightforward way to operate key functions without relying entirely on touchscreen menus.
That combination of digital displays and conventional controls could give the new Bayon a more modern cabin while preserving some of the usability that has become increasingly rare in small SUVs.
Hyundai Bayon Powertrain Options: What to Expect
The second-generation Bayon is expected to use an evolution of the current model’s architecture rather than an entirely new platform. Powertrain availability will likely vary considerably between markets.
Potential options include:
- Gasoline engines
- CNG powertrains
- Mild-hybrid systems
The current European Bayon is powered by a 1.0-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine. However, rumors suggest that the European version of the new model could replace it with a 1.2-liter mild-hybrid engine. In India, a non-electrified 1.5-liter gasoline engine is reportedly being considered.
These specifications remain unconfirmed, and Hyundai is expected to tailor the powertrain lineup to local regulations, fuel availability and customer demand. The company has not yet provided a complete technical breakdown of the new Bayon.
Where the New Bayon Fits in Hyundai’s SUV Lineup
The new Hyundai Bayon will continue to occupy a position between the brand’s smallest electric SUV and its larger mainstream crossover.
| Model | Position in the lineup |
|---|---|
| Hyundai Inster | Smaller, fully electric urban SUV |
| Hyundai Bayon | Small B-SUV positioned between the Inster and Kona |
| Hyundai Kona | Larger compact SUV |
This positioning places the Bayon firmly in the B-SUV segment, one of the most competitive areas of the European automotive market. Its combination of compact dimensions, elevated seating position and SUV styling is intended to appeal to buyers who want the practicality of a crossover without moving into a larger vehicle.
Hyundai Bayon Production and Global Availability
The current Bayon was introduced in 2021 and received a facelift in 2024. Production takes place in Turkey, with sales primarily concentrated in European markets.
The second-generation model is expected to be unveiled first in India, where local production is reportedly likely. Hyundai could then introduce the new Bayon in additional markets around the world, including Europe and the Middle East.
However, the new Bayon is not expected to be sold in North America. Hyundai’s Venue, which occupies a similar size category, will likely remain the brand’s offering in that region.
Why Is It Called the Bayon?
The Bayon name is inspired by Bayonne, a city in the French Basque Country. Known for its medieval architecture and historic character, the city provides the name for Hyundai’s smallest SUV designed primarily for European markets.
The name also follows Hyundai’s established practice of using geographic references for several of its SUV models.
When Will the New Hyundai Bayon Be Revealed?
Hyundai is expected to unveil the second-generation Bayon in India in the coming weeks. The company has already released official design sketches, but full technical specifications, pricing and market-specific equipment details have yet to be announced.
The European launch is expected to follow the initial unveiling, although Hyundai has not confirmed an exact arrival date. More information about the engine lineup, hybrid technology and production plans should become available closer to the official debut.
Source: Hyundai
