Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) has officially revealed the name of its highly anticipated mid-size SUV: the Bayon. The name is inspired by Bayonne, a city in the French Basque Country, renowned for its distinct character and dynamic spirit. This strategic naming underscores Hyundai’s ambition to introduce a model that embodies a fresh mindset for its customers.
Technology and Market Strategy
The upcoming Bayon is poised to be a technologically advanced vehicle, built on a Software Defined Vehicle (SDV) platform tailored for a younger demographic. Tarun Garg, Managing Director and CEO of Hyundai Motor India Ltd, highlighted the model's focus on technology and its intuitive experience for users.
Scheduled for a launch during the 2026 festive season, the Bayon is expected to significantly strengthen Hyundai’s already robust SUV portfolio in India. The mid-size SUV segment is experiencing rapid growth, with Hyundai's existing Creta model leading the market with annual sales of 200,000 units. The Bayon is anticipated to further accelerate Hyundai's sales volumes in this high-demand category.
Engine Options and Future Plans
While specific details are still emerging, the Bayon is likely to feature the Creta’s proven 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine, which produces 115hp. This engine will offer both a 6-speed manual and a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) option. There is also speculation about a potential CNG variant with an underbody tank, which would make it the first Hyundai model over four meters in length to offer a factory-fitted CNG option.
In addition to the Bayon, Hyundai has confirmed plans to introduce a dedicated electric vehicle (EV) in the Venue-sized segment later this financial year. This compact EV will be an entirely new model, separate from an electrified version of the existing Venue.