Hyundai's Bayon, now three years old, has gracefully undergone a subtle facelift that introduces discreet yet effective cosmetic updates, maintaining the model's timeless charm. Drawing inspiration from the philosophy that the best facelifts are the ones you scarcely notice, Hyundai's designers focused on refined details, resulting in an almost imperceptible transformation.
Hyundai Bayon">
While the Bayon, a direct competitor to the Ford Puma, already embraced Hyundai's latest design language, the facelift introduces enhancements that aficionados might find challenging to distinguish. Notable changes include a new grille, diverse wheel designs, and the incorporation of a standard 10.25-inch infotainment screen. The split-headlight treatment on the nose, featuring razor-slim DRLs, now boasts a connecting full-width light bar, a feature found in many newer Hyundai models. Subtle modifications to the bumpers and grille enhance the overall aesthetic, reducing body-colored plastic on the front end and contributing to a wider-mouth appearance.
The rear of the Bayon undergoes similar refinements, characterized by more black plastic and redesigned reversing lights in the bumper. To further highlight the post-facelift status, Hyundai introduces four new paint colors to the configurator palette, allowing customers to personalize their Bayon with a touch of freshness.
The interior of the Bayon already exuded a tech-forward ambiance, featuring a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster as standard in some markets. However, the main infotainment screen was a modest 8-inch display, with the larger 10.25-inch alternative requiring an upgrade. With the 2024 facelift, Hyundai makes a bold move by offering the expansive 10.25-inch display as a standard feature across the entire Bayon lineup. Digital gauges enhance the overall tech-savvy feel, and the navigation system is now equipped to receive over-air updates.
While the facelift brings forth these aesthetic and technological refinements, Hyundai has kept details about powertrains under wraps. This indicates that Bayon buyers will likely continue to choose from two iterations of the 1.0-liter three-cylinder turbocharged engine. The base option produces 98 bhp and 172 Nm of torque, while the higher-tier version elevates power to 118 bhp while maintaining the same torque.
As of now, pricing details and the European on-sale date remain undisclosed. Considering the current Bayon starts at £21,570 in the UK, it is anticipated that the premium for the new model, like the styling changes, will be subtly integrated, aligning seamlessly with the Bayon's enduring appeal.