by I sometimes think the Hyundai Bayon is the underdog of Hyundai’s SUV family. It doesn’t quite have the street presence of the Kona or the sharp looks of the Tucson, yet it quietly does its job with surprising confidence. If you’re in the market for a small crossover that’s practical, affordable, and a little quirky, the Bayon might just deserve a second look.
Design and First Impressions
Let’s be honest: the Bayon’s styling isn’t going to win any beauty contests. Hyundai calls it bold; some might call it… unusual. The split headlights, slim daytime running lights, and chunky rear end certainly stand out in a crowded car park. Whether you love it or raise an eyebrow, one thing’s certain, it’s not bland.
The compact footprint makes it city-friendly, but it still carries that SUV stance buyers want. From some angles it looks modern and funky; from others, slightly awkward. Still, at least it avoids blending into the sea of lookalike crossovers.
Cabin and Comfort
Step inside and things feel more mainstream in a good way. The Bayon’s interior is simple, functional, and well thought out. You won’t find soft-touch materials everywhere, but most of the plastics feel durable rather than cheap. The layout is clear, and Hyundai’s infotainment system remains one of the most user-friendly in the business.
Front passengers get a decent amount of head and legroom, while the rear is surprisingly spacious for a car this size. The boot is another win offering more luggage space than many rivals, making it ideal for family trips or a weekly supermarket sweep.
On the Road
Under the bonnet, most Bayons are powered by a 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine, often paired with mild-hybrid tech. It won’t set your pulse racing, but it’s more than adequate for everyday driving. Around town it feels nippy, and on the motorway it settles comfortably at speed.
Handling is neat rather than sporty. The steering is light for city use, and while there is a “Sport” mode, all it really does is add a bit of weight to the wheel. Ride quality is generally smooth, though pothole-riddled roads can make things a little bouncy.
In short: the Bayon isn’t thrilling, but it’s predictable, safe, and easy to live with which, for many buyers, is exactly what matters.
Equipment and Tech
Hyundai hasn’t skimped on equipment. Even entry-level trims get a good spread of safety kit, including lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and cruise control. Move up the range and you’ll find larger touchscreens, navigation, and extra driver aids.
Connectivity is a strong point too, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto offered as standard. The digital driver display in higher trims adds a touch of modern flair, while the overall layout remains refreshingly intuitive.
Running Costs
Fuel economy is competitive, especially with the mild-hybrid versions, and Hyundai’s long warranty (five years, unlimited mileage) adds peace of mind. Insurance groups are sensible, making it an appealing choice for younger drivers or families keeping an eye on costs.
Price & Value for Money
The Hyundai Bayon is priced competitively in the UK, starting at around £21,500 and rising to roughly £25,500 for higher-spec trims. That positions it neatly against rivals like the Ford Puma, Renault Captur, and Volkswagen T-Cross.
For the money, Hyundai offers a lot of kit as standard. Even the entry-level model comes with alloy wheels, LED lighting, an infotainment touchscreen with smartphone connectivity, and a generous list of safety features. Step up the trims and you’ll find extras like a larger 10.25-inch screen, navigation, digital dials, and more advanced driver assistance systems.
Running costs should also be kind to your wallet. The mild-hybrid petrol engines return respectable fuel economy (up to 50+ mpg in real-world driving), while insurance groups and road tax remain on the sensible side. Add in Hyundai’s reassuring five-year/unlimited mileage warranty, and the Bayon shapes up as one of the most value-packed options in the small SUV class.
Verdict
The Hyundai Bayon might not grab headlines or turn heads, but it delivers where it counts. It’s practical, well-equipped, and backed by Hyundai’s reputation for reliability. The design will divide opinion, and it won’t excite keen drivers, but as a no-nonsense small SUV, it’s a strong contender.
If you want something stylish and sporty, you might lean towards rivals like the Ford Puma. But if your priority is value, space, and hassle-free motoring, the Bayon quietly makes a very solid case for itself.
