Hyundai continues to expand its line-up, just revealing an all-new, B-segment crossover utility vehicle dubbed the Bayon. Designed specifically for markets in Europe, it’s the latest and smallest member of Hyundai’s growing family of utes.
“As the SUV body type continues growing in popularity throughout the world, Hyundai saw a demand for a model capable of navigating European cities while at the same time providing enough space to meet customers’ needs,” according to Andreas-Christoph Hofmann, vice president of Marketing & Product at Hyundai Motor Europe.
Although more than two thirds of the Hyundai sold in the United States are utilities in a range of sizes, the Bayon is not scheduled for sale in the U.S., Hyundai officials said. But that could change if gasoline prices rise and the rising prices of new vehicles leaves more and more buyers on sideline, making small vehicles more attractive.
Bayon enjoys full menu of new tech
The Bayon comes to market with what the automaker touts as top-notch connectivity and other tech, as well as a distinctive design and 48-volt mild-hybrid technology.
“Class-leading connectivity and safety features, a sharp and distinctive design, and the integration of Hyundai’s signature 48-volt mild hybrid technology make Bayon stand out in its segment,” Hoffman said.
The Bayon features a roomy interior, and intelligent safety features, making them more accessible. The cabin maximizes front and rear passenger comfort. The interior is defined by a range of equipment, including a 10.25-inch digital cluster and a 10.25-inch AVN or 8-inch Display Audio.
Occupants benefit from LED ambient lighting technology integrated into the front passenger foot areas, door wells, and front door pull handle areas, as well as the storage area below the center console.
Exterior boasts modern look
It also features the latest exterior design statement within the Hyundai SUV family, with distinctive proportions and strong graphic features that encompasses the Hyundai design identity with “Sensuous Sportiness.”
“With its sharp look and integration of Hyundai’s SUV key design elements, Bayon solidifies Hyundai’s SUV design direction,” said Luc Donckerwolke, chief creative officer at Hyundai Motor Group. “Bayon’s unique and confident look, embodied in its strong lines and arrow-shaped lights, is expected to establish it as the most unique, outstanding entry in the thriving European B-segment SUV.”
The Bayon name was inspired by a vacation hotspot: Bayonne, the capital of the French Basque country and a popular destination in southwest of France. As the Bayon is designed to meet the demands of the European market, the company decided to give it a European name.
With Bayon, Hyundai has now launched or enhanced seven new models in 12 months – or 20, counting all body types and powertrain variations, company officials said.
We need this vehicle as gas prices has risen under President Biden. If I ran Hyundai, I would change the name to Bayou
Wow, Hyundai finally brought in a designer to an SUV development team.