Hyundai is filling a gap in its own line-up. The Bayon is a 4.2-metre SUV that sits between the Venue and the bigger next-gen Creta. The big talking point: it's set to be Hyundai's first model over 4 metres with a factory-fitted CNG kit, likely with an underbody tank. Nothing is officially dated yet, but the SUV has been spied testing in India, and a Diwali 2026 or early 2027 launch is on the cards.
Hyundai Bayon launch date: Diwali 2026 or Q1 2027?
Hyundai hasn't announced an official launch date yet. What we know: the company has said a new midsize SUV will arrive before the end of this financial year. The Bayon has been spotted testing on Indian roads several times. Best guess is a September-October 2026 launch during the Diwali season, or it could slip into Q1 2027. So if you're shopping right now, you'd have to wait a few months at least.
Hyundai Bayon expected price: where it lands vs Venue and Creta
We expect the Bayon to be priced around ₹8–14 lakh (ex-showroom). That's a wide band because variants and fuel type aren't confirmed. It should start above the Venue and end below the next-gen Creta, filling the middle. On-road prices will be higher once you add road tax, registration and insurance, which vary by state. The CNG versions will likely sit in the ₹10–14 lakh part of the range.
Design: boxier stance, 4.2m length, split lamps
The new Bayon drops the old rounded crossover look for a boxier, more upright SUV shape. Spy shots point to a flatter roof, connected full-width LED tail-lights, and prominent wheel-arch cladding. The front gets split headlamps with LED projectors, in line with Hyundai's newer models. At 4.2 metres, it's longer and wider than the Venue, with a longer wheelbase. That should mean a roomier cabin and a bigger boot than the Venue for a family's weekend bags.
India's first 4m+ factory CNG SUV: how it works
This is the headline feature. The Bayon is expected to be Hyundai's first model over 4 metres to offer a factory-fitted CNG kit (a fuel that costs less per km than petrol). Reports suggest an underbody twin-cylinder tank layout, which would save boot space compared to a normal single tank sitting inside. That matters because most CNG cars eat up the boot. For fuel-conscious buyers doing high running, this two-fuel flexibility is the main draw. Do note the CNG specs aren't officially confirmed yet.
Hyundai Bayon engine and specs
India is expected to get a 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated petrol engine, the same unit as the Creta. It makes 114 bhp (about 115 PS) and 143.8 Nm of torque (pulling power). Gearbox choices are likely a 6-speed manual or a CVT (a smooth automatic). A 1.2L turbo-petrol could also be on the cards, though it's not confirmed. The European version uses mild-hybrid tech, but the India-spec car leans on the simpler petrol-plus-CNG combo instead.
Hyundai Bayon interior and features
Inside, expect a modern, connected cabin. Spy shots show twin curved 12.3-inch screens, one for the touchscreen and one for the digital driver's display. The feature list is likely to include wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, ventilated front seats (cooled seats for hot Indian summers), an electric driver's seat, ambient lighting, a sunroof and a premium sound system. On safety, the Bayon should get 6 airbags, ESP, a 360-degree camera and Level 2 ADAS (safety tech that can brake for you and hold a set speed on the highway). That's a strong kit for the price.
Bayon vs Maruti Victoris, Nexon, Brezza: who loses?
The closest fight will be with the upcoming Maruti Victoris, also around 4.3m and also offering CNG. The Bayon likely commands a ₹1–2 lakh premium, but hits back with Level 2 ADAS, dual screens and Hyundai's fit and finish. It also eats into space held by the Tata Nexon (₹8–15 lakh), Maruti Brezza and Hyundai's own Venue. Against smaller rivals like the Nissan Magnite (₹5.65–11.13 lakh) and Tata Punch (₹5.70–10.67 lakh), the Bayon plays a size and feature card, not a price one.
Should you wait for the Bayon or buy now?
If you want a sub-4.3m SUV with two-fuel flexibility and proper safety tech, the Bayon is worth the wait. Our read: the factory CNG-over-4m novelty and the ADAS suite make it a genuinely fresh option in the ₹10–14 lakh band. But if you need a car this month, the Venue is on sale today, and the Creta is the pick if you can stretch your budget and want more space. Wait for the Bayon if fuel savings, size and tech are your priorities.
References: Hyundai India — official website
