Hyundai Bayon-Based Compact SUV: Hyundai is preparing to expand its compact SUV portfolio in India with a new model based on the global Bayon crossover. The upcoming SUV has already entered the testing phase on Indian roads, and its launch is expected towards the end of 2026, according to industry sources.
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Positioned Between Exter and Venue
Internally known as BC4i, the Hyundai Bayon-Based Compact SUV will slot between the Hyundai Exter and the Venue in the brand’s Indian line-up. This placement indicates Hyundai’s intent to strengthen its presence in the crowded compact SUV space, where competition has intensified in recent years.
The test mules spotted so far suggest that while the SUV will share its underpinnings with the international Bayon, it will adopt a more upright and SUV-like stance to suit Indian market preferences. From certain angles, the proportions appear closer to the Venue, though with a boxier overall shape.
Hyundai Bayon-Based Compact SUV Exterior Design Highlights
Spy images indicate that the upcoming Hyundai SUV will feature a split headlamp layout, in line with the brand’s current design language. The front grille is expected to borrow cues from larger Hyundai SUVs sold globally, lending it a more robust appearance.
Features such as front parking sensors and a 360-degree camera are also likely to be offered, at least on higher variants.
From the side, the SUV is seen with pronounced cladding around the wheel arches, newly designed alloy wheels, roof rails, and a slightly rising window line. A shark-fin antenna is also expected to be part of the standard design.
At the rear, although the vehicle remains heavily camouflaged, the lighting signature appears to be different from existing Hyundai compact SUVs. The test vehicles suggest sleek, all-LED tail lamps with a possible connecting light bar. The rear bumper looks more muscular and is expected to integrate parking sensors and a reverse camera.
Hyundai Bayon-Based Compact SUV Powertrain Details
Under the hood, the Hyundai Bayon-Based Compact SUV is likely to debut Hyundai’s new 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine developed specifically for India. This motor will sit between the existing 1.0-litre and 1.5-litre turbo petrol units and is designed to be hybrid-ready.
While official output figures are not yet available, the engine is expected to be paired with either a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission or an e-CVT. Hyundai may also continue offering the familiar 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine on select variants. A diesel option appears unlikely, though a hybrid version could be introduced at a later stage.
Segment and Rivals
Once launched, the Hyundai Bayon-Based Compact SUV will compete with models such as the Maruti Suzuki Fronx, Toyota Taisor, Nissan Magnite, and Renault Kiger. For Indian buyers, this model could offer a fresh alternative that combines Hyundai’s feature-rich approach with a new engine option aimed at improved efficiency.
With testing underway and a late-2026 launch timeline, more concrete details on specifications and features are expected to emerge closer to launch.
Disclaimer: Details in this article are based on test sightings and industry information available at the time of writing. Final specifications, features, and timelines may vary at the time of launch.
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Raj Prajapati is a senior automobile content writer at How2Guidess.in with over 3 years of experience in auto news, vehicle launches, comparisons, and EV updates. With a background in Computer Science & Engineering, he focuses on research-based, clear, and reader-friendly automobile content.