The i20 supermini is given a crossover makeover, with unique styling.
We’re still waiting for Hyundai to enter the pickup truck and performance segment with the Santa Cruz as well as the mid-engined sportscar. However, the Asian brand has just launched a new crossover. The new Bayon is actually not significantly smaller than the Kona, despite the fact that they have identical footprints.
The subcompact crossover measures 4.18 meters (164.5 ins) long, 1.77 m (69.7 ins) wide and 1.49 m (58.6 ins tall). It is slightly shorter than the Kona (4.21 meter / 165.9 inches), but it is also a bit narrower with a lower roofline. The wheelbase is 2.58 meters (101.5 inches), which is a little shorter than the Kona’s. However, the cargo volume stands at 411 Liters (14.5 cubic feet) and 1,205 Liters (42.5 cubic feet) when you fold the rear seats. With or without the bench, the Kona’s load volume is greater than the Kona.
| Length | Width | Height | Wheelbase | |
| 2021 Bayon | 4.18 meters (164.5 in) | 1.77m (69.7inches) | 1.49m (58.6inches) | 2.58 metres (101.5 inches). |
| 2021 Hyundai Kona | 4.21 meters (165.9 in) | 1.8m (70.9 inches). | 1.57m (62 inches). | 2.6m (102.4 inches). |
What is the Bayon exactly? It’s a crossover version for the i20 supermini in Europe. Hyundai created a separate B-segment model to replace the Venue that is available in North America. It also has an exterior design that will not leave you unimpressed. The Bayon is anything but traditional, with its quirky split headlights and Tucson-like character lines as well as the boomerang LED signature at the rear.
Although it is difficult to see, the little crossover is actually related to the . However, the dashboard design was essentially copied from the supermini. The dashboard features the same pair 10.25-inch screens for the instrument cluster, as well as the identical continuous air vent design.
The Bayon inherits the oily bits of the subcompact hatchback, and it’s a similar story beneath the skin. The base engine is a naturally-aspirated 1.2-liter gasoline engine that produces a powerful 84 horsepower. It is connected to the road by a five-speed manual gearbox. You can upgrade to the turbocharged, 1.0-liter three cylinder engine and get 100 horsepower.
The 120-horsepower turbo version of the 1.0 liter engine is available only with mild-hybrid technology. It has the same gearboxes and engines as the 100-hp three-pot. To keep the Bayon affordable and simple, Hyundai will only sell it with an FWD layout.
Many are wondering about the purpose of the Bayon, when Hyundai already offers the Kona in a similar size. That’s a valid question. The South Korean brand will most likely market this crossover as a practical and value-oriented vehicle for those who don’t require AWD or an electric version. The new Kona also has a distinctive look, but it emits the same quirky vibes as the Kona.
Although the models will overlap in some ways, Hyundai must have done extensive research before giving the green light to the Bayon. It’s not an entirely new car, as it’s more like a jacked up i20 with different bodywork in order to capitalize on the crossover boom.