Hyundai Bayon launches in India with AI, from INR 9.99 lakh

Engine and performance

The Hyundai Bayon is powered by a 1.5-litre, four-cylinder MPi petrol engine producing 115 PS (84.4 kW) and 143.8 Nm of torque. Buyers can choose between a six-speed manual transmission and Hyundai's Intelligent Variable Transmission (iVT).

The iVT features Dash Boost Mode, designed to improve responsiveness during overtaking, and Sporty Drive Tech for more engaging acceleration. Other available features include Eco, Normal and Sport driving modes, paddle shifters and an idle stop-start system.

The SUV uses MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear axle, with front disc brakes and rear drum or disc brakes depending on the variant.

Generative AI and connected technology

One of the new Hyundai Bayon's biggest highlights is Hyundai Motor India's first generative AI voice assistant, integrating intelligence from Perplexity and voice AI technology from SoundHound AI.

The English-language assistant supports natural conversations and can provide information about travel itineraries, weather, restaurants, hotels, news and sports, bringing AI-powered assistance into the driving experience.

The NVIDIA-accelerated Connected Car Navigation Cockpit features two curved 12.3-inch displays, complemented by more than 70 Hyundai Bluelink connected features and over 500 embedded voice commands.

The system also supports over-the-air software updates across up to 19 vehicle controllers, allowing compatible vehicle functions to receive updates without a dealership visit.

Other available technology includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a Bose premium audio system, multilingual interfaces supporting 12 languages and three years of complimentary Hyundai Bluelink connectivity.

Hyundai Bayon safety and level 2 ADAS features

Built on Hyundai's Global K Enhanced Platform, the Bayon features a body structure comprising 69% advanced multi-grade high-strength steel.

Hyundai says the SUV has been engineered to meet five-star Indian safety standards based on its internal assessment. However, this should not be confused with an independently verified five-star crash-test rating.

The new Bayon offers more than 80 safety features, including Hyundai SmartSense Level 2 Pro ADAS with 23 driver assistance functions.

Available systems include Highway Driving Assist, navigation-based smart cruise control, surround-view monitoring and blind-spot monitoring. The driver assistance package is supported by three radars and 12 parking sensors.

More than 35 safety features are standard across all variants, including six airbags, electronic stability control, hill-start assist, a rollover sensor and tyre pressure monitoring.

ADAS availability varies depending on the selected variant, while certain navigation-based assistance functions are limited to designated expressways.

Dimensions, design and practicality

The Hyundai Bayon measures 4,245 mm in length, 1,810 mm in width and 1,605 mm in height, with a 2,600 mm wheelbase.

The SUV offers 205 mm of unladen ground clearance and a 5.16-metre turning radius, combining compact dimensions with the practicality expected from a modern urban SUV.

Exterior design highlights include H-Edge LED daytime running lights and tail lamps, dual LED projector headlights, pronounced wheel arches, protective body cladding, roof rails and available 17-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels.

Inside, the black and olive-grey cabin offers available leatherette upholstery, ambient lighting, a D-cut steering wheel and a soft-touch dashboard.

Comfort features include ventilated front seats, an eight-way powered driver's seat, two-stage reclining rear seats, a panoramic sunroof, automatic climate control, rear AC vents and wireless charging.

For practicality, the Hyundai Bayon features 60:40 split-folding rear seats and a claimed 505-litre boot, measured using Hyundai's V215 method with a tyre mobility kit.

Hyundai Bayon price, variants and global availability

The Hyundai Bayon starts at INR 9,99,900 (approximately USD 10,500 / AED 38,600) in India, excluding registration fees and other on-road charges.

The SUV is available in seven trims: HX2, HX3, HX3+, HX5, HX6, HX8 and HX10.

All seven variants offer a six-speed manual transmission, while the four higher trims are also available with Hyundai's iVT automatic transmission.

Customers can choose from ten exterior colours, including six monotone finishes, two dual-tone options with black roofs and two matte finishes.

Manufactured in India, the new Hyundai Bayon is expected to reach more than 50 export markets. However, Hyundai has not yet confirmed the specific destinations, including whether the SUV will be introduced in the UAE.