Vehicle Overview
The 2021 Hyundai Bayon is a subcompact crossover SUV built specifically for the European market, slotting below the Kona. It combines a tall ride height, versatile packaging, and Hyundai’s latest design language (“Sensuous Sportiness”) in a compact footprint. The Bayon targets urban buyers who need the practicality and styling of an SUV without upsizing to larger, more expensive models.
| Segment | Subcompact Crossover SUV (B-segment) |
| Body Style | 5-door SUV |
| Model Year | 2021 (first generation) |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive; no AWD option |
Key Specifications
| Specification | 1.0 T-GDi 100 PS | 1.0 T-GDi 120 PS (mild-hybrid) | 1.0 T-GDi 100 PS (mild-hybrid) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.0 L turbocharged I3 | 1.0 L turbocharged I3 | 1.0 L turbocharged I3 |
| Power | 100 PS @ 5,000 rpm | 120 PS @ 6,000 rpm | 100 PS @ 5,000 rpm |
| Torque | 172 Nm @ 1,500–4,000 rpm | 200 Nm @ 2,000–3,500 rpm | 172 Nm @ 1,500–4,000 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | 7-speed dual-clutch | 6-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| 0–100 km/h | 11.4 s | 9.9 s | 12.0 s |
| Top Speed | 180 km/h | 190 km/h | 175 km/h |
| Fuel Economy (WLTP) | 5.0–5.2 L/100 km | 4.8–5.0 L/100 km | 4.9–5.1 L/100 km |
| CO₂ Emissions | 113–118 g/km | 110–115 g/km | 112–117 g/km |
| Dimensions (L×W×H) | 4,180 × 1,775 × 1,490 mm | Same | Same |
| Wheelbase | 2,580 mm | ||
| Boot Capacity | 411 L (seats up) | 411 L | 411 L |
Exterior Design
| Sensuous Sportiness Styling | Cascading grille flanked by split-level LED lighting and wide “wing” daytime running lamps. |
| Crossover Cues | Pronounced wheel arches, skid-plate trim front and rear, and available two-tone roof. |
| Wheels | 16″ steel wheels standard; 16″ or 17″ alloys optional on higher trims. |
| Color Palette | Includes Phantom Black, Atlas White, Shimmering Silver, Surfy Blue, and exclusive two-tone combinations. |
Interior, Comfort & Materials
| Cabin Layout | Horizontal dashboard emphasis with floating 8″ touchscreen at its center. |
| Upholstery | Cloth seats in Active and Trend; leatherette on Premium trim, with contrast stitching. |
| Space | Class-leading rear legroom for its segment (up to 1,030 mm) and generous headroom. |
| Storage | Centre console bin, door pockets, under-floor boot compartment, and glovebox. |
Features & Infotainment
| Infotainment | 8″ touchscreen with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto; optional 10.25″ screen with navigation. |
| Digital Instrument Cluster | 4.2″ display on Active/Trend; 10.25″ fully digital on Premium. |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, multiple USB ports, and optional wireless charging pad. |
| Comfort Tech | Dual-zone climate control, rain-sensing wipers, and heated front seats (Premium). |
Safety & Ratings
| Euro NCAP | 5-star rating (2021) for adult and child occupant protection. |
Hyundai SmartSense Suite
Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (AEB) with pedestrian and cyclist detection
Lane Keeping Assist & Lane Following Assist
Blind Spot Collision Warning & Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
Driver Attention Warning
Optional Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go
Driving Performance
1.0 T-GDi 100 PS: Smooth, linear turbo delivery; light steering for city agility.
1.0 T-GDi 120 PS Hybrid: Sharper throttle response, mild-hybrid provides assist under acceleration.
| Ride & Handling | Independent MacPherson struts front, torsion-beam rear with well-damped compliance and controlled body roll. |
| Manual vs DCT | 6-speed manual feels precise; 7-speed DCT offers quick shifts though occasional low-speed jerks. |
Fuel Efficiency / Emissions
100 PS Manual: ~5.0 L/100 km WLTP (113 g/km CO₂).
120 PS DCT Hybrid: ~4.8 L/100 km WLTP (110 g/km CO₂).
| Real-World | Consistent mid-5 L/100 km in mixed driving for hybrid; ~5.2 L/100 km for manual. |
Practicality & Everyday Usability
| Boot | 411 L under parcel shelf; 1,205 L with rear seats folded (60:40 split). |
| Cabin Storage | Ample door bins, central cubby, and under-floor storage tray for valuables. |
| Visibility & Access | High seating position, large windows, and wide-opening rear tailgate. |
| Urban Friend | 10.3 m turning circle, front/rear parking sensors, and optional rear-view camera. |
Warranty & Maintenance
| Warranty | 5 years / unlimited mileage (vehicle); 8 years / 160,000 km (powertrain). |
| Service Intervals | 15,000 km or 12 months; Hyundai’s prepaid maintenance packs available. |
| Roadside Assist | 5 years / unlimited. |
Price & Value for Money
Starting Price (UK OTR)
1.0 T-GDi 100 PS Active: from £18,000
1.0 T-GDi 120 PS Trend: from £20,000
1.0 T-GDi 120 PS Premium: from £22,000
| Value Proposition | Strong standard equipment and comprehensive warranty undercut many B-segment rivals. |
Comparison with Rivals
| Model | Powertrain | Power / Torque | Boot (L) | Price (From) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hyundai Bayon | 1.0 T-GDi (100–120 PS) | 100–120 PS / 172–200 Nm | 411 | £18–£22 k |
| Toyota Yaris Cross | 1.5 L HEV / 1.0 T | 116 PS / 98 PS | 390 | £21–£25 k |
| Renault Captur | 1.0 T / 1.3 T | 100–130 PS | 422 | £19–£24 k |
| Volkswagen T-Cross | 1.0 T / 1.5 T | 95–150 PS | 455 | £20–£25 k |
Pros & Cons
Pros
Eye-catching, modern styling in a small package
Spacious cabin and versatile boot for class
Comprehensive safety tech standard
Strong warranty and low running costs
Cons
No AWD option in a segment where some rivals offer it
Hybrid only on the higher-powered engine
DCT can be hesitant in stop-start traffic
Ride firm over sharp bumps on larger wheels
Overall Rating
4.1 / 5 stars
An attractive, well-equipped subcompact crossover that delivers SUV practicality and Hyundai value in a city-friendly package.
Final Verdict
The 2021 Hyundai Bayon is ideal for urban explorers and small families seeking a stylish crossover with versatile space, advanced safety, and Hyundai’s renowned warranty—all at an accessible price point.
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Pros & cons
- Good fit for UK buyers who choose the right trim
- Strong shortlist candidate when total costs are checked
- Final value depends heavily on trim, options and finance price
- Larger wheels can reduce ride comfort and raise tyre costs
- Availability, standard equipment and pricing may vary during the year
Final verdict
The Hyundai Bayon is a credible option in the UK market if it matches your priorities. The smartest approach is to decide what matters most - comfort, space, efficiency, performance, image or technology - then compare the exact trim against two or three rivals on the same route and the same finance basis. Choose the version that feels easiest to live with, not simply the one with the longest equipment list.
Buyer checkpoints
| Buyer checkpoint | True Motion Auto view |
|---|---|
| Best for | Drivers wanting balanced everyday usability. |
| Body style | Car |
| Powertrain focus | Petrol, diesel or hybrid depending on model year and trim |
| UK ownership note | Check insurance group, VED, charging or fuel costs and service-plan pricing before buying. |
| Verdict | Worth shortlisting if its size, running costs and equipment match your daily use. |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Hyundai Bayon good for UK roads?
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Specifications, prices and equipment were current at publication and vary by model year, trim and market. Verify final details with a franchised dealer before ordering. Read how we review cars and our editorial policy.