Hyundai Bayon
By Ian Strachan.
When is an SUV not an SUV? When the driving position is no different to a normal hatchback.
The Hyundai Bayon is a case in point. It describes itself as a crossover compact SUV, but the driving position is very low, so the SUV description becomes a bit marginal.
That said, a low road stance is no bad thing. It helps aerodynamically and therefore has an effect on performance and economy. Plus the Bayon is a very nice car in all respects, so its sector denomination is largely irrelevant.
I test drove the petrol-driven 100 bhp manual Bayon in a mild hybrid set up, with a 48v electric motor to help economy and keep emissions low. This one litre engine is a more than adequate unit for the smallest SUV in Hyundai’s line-up. It can get a little raucous when worked hard, but pulls well throughout the range, and you can expect to get around 53 miles to the gallon.
The Hyundai Bayon is certainly pleasing on the eye, with a crisp, elegant profile. Its good looks are helped by smart 17-inch alloys, a rear spoiler and roof rails.
The Bayon handles nicely and feels exceptionally sure footed. In fact the overall ride and handling of this vehicle is very impressive indeed, with comfortably soft suspension.
You get plenty of extras on the Bayon that many manufacturers would charge you extra for, including a 10.25 inch touchscreen satellite navigation and sound system, a good DAB radio with Bluetooth and AppleCarPlay, a wirelss phone charging pad, and a range of safety aids including forward collion avoidance assist, lane keeping assist and a speed limit warning. You also get climate control with a front screen de-fogging system, nicely trimmed seats, steering wheel mounted controls, heated steering wheel, front and rear fog lights, cruise control, rear parking camera and rear parking sensors.
The Premium spec that I tested also includes interior ambient mood lighting, heated front seats, high-beam assist and heated electric door mirrors.
The Hyundai Bayon Premium 1.0 T-GDi mild hybrid comes with an on the road price of £23,265, which is competitive in its sector. the range starts at a bit above £21,000.
This is an impressive car that will certainly give more established cars in the sector a run for their money, particularly among drivers who are not marque-obsessed.
