Bayon proves an all-round good guy
WE’VE written about the expanding crossover and SUV market what feels like a thousand times in the past few years – manufacturers are constantly finding new ways to join this evergrowing market.
The latest is Hyundai, which has introduced the Bayon as the smallest SUV in its line-up.
On the face of it, it appears to be directly competing with the firm’s own Kona model on size and space.
The Bayon’s a bit more practical and a fraction cheaper though.
What’s new?
THE easiest way to think of the Bayon is as a taller, more practical version of the Hyundai i20.
In fact, it shares much of its cabin design with the supermini, which means it has decent technology, even if it’s unexciting to look at. It also gets a distinctive exterior plus impressive levels of safety assistance and connectivity, and a mild hybrid petrol engine.
What’s it like to drive?
THE Bayon feels like the perfect size for British roads. It might share much with the i20 supermini but it feels a lot more spacious inside, while also remaining compact enough to offer a relaxing drive down a country road. It’s also easy to dart about in urban traffic, thanks to its small dimensions and higher driving position.
The engine is a little gruff, but pulls well throughout the rev range.
The Bayon is also very comfortable and corners with composure.
How does it look?
THE Bayon is a bit of an oddball, with the rear in particular having a curious nondescript look.
The boot is black with boomerang-like lights at each side, while the lower lid is body-coloured flowing into a chunky black bumper with a silver skid plate.
The front end is more conventional, with its slim running lights, chunky headlights and a large grille.
What’s the spec like?
THERE are three specifications, starting with the SE Connect at £20,295. Standard equipment includes 16-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, leather-wrapped steering wheel and a black cloth interior upholstery.
There’s an 8.0-inch infotainment display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as a digital instrument cluster.
The Premium trim starts at £22,495 and adds 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic climate control, LED headlights and a 10.25-inch infotainment display with built-in satellite navigation.
This trim also introduces the 118bhp engine with the automatic gearbox as an option.
Finally, Ultimate models start at £23,795 and get a two-tone black roof, black and grey interior, keyless entry and a Bose sound system, as well as some upgraded safety kit.
Hyundai has expanded its crossover range with the Bayon, the smallest SUV in its line-up. Darren Cassey checks it out
What’s it like inside?
YOUR first impression of the Bayon will be that, despite its size, it’s impressively spacious.
There is a good amount of adjustability in the driving position, which is set high enough to give excellent visibility.
With the central touchscreen, there’s a fairly minimalist design that appears impressively tech-focused given it’s a small, affordable crossover, but it feels like this has been compensated for by using some cheaper materials.
Our test car was the top-spec Ultimate trim, but it didn’t inspire the same appeal as other Hyundai models.
The verdict
THE Bayon is excellent at what it tries to be – a practical, affordable family car.
There are no driving thrills to be had, but if you’re looking for something spacious for the school run that will also prove comfortable over longer distances, the Bayon makes a fantastic case for itself. If sensibility is high on the agenda, this is a fantastic allrounder.