Hyundai Bayon to be unveiled on October 12, Renault Duster Hybrid price on October 17

For those planning to buy a new SUV before Diwali, two new models are drawing attention in the Indian automobile market: the Hyundai Bayon and the Renault Duster Hybrid. The Hyundai Bayon is said to be unveiled on October 12, with bookings reportedly set to open. The price of the Renault Duster Hybrid will be announced on October 17.

A new design, petrol and CNG options and strong hybrid technology have drawn customers' attention to both vehicles.

The Hyundai Bayon could slot between the Venue and the Creta in the company's SUV range. It is said to be about 4.2 metres long and is likely to have an attractive, boxy design. It may get a split headlamp setup at the front, an H-shaped signature DRL and a sporty bumper. Dual-tone alloy wheels, LED tail lamps and a roof-mounted spoiler could give it a distinct identity.

On the engine, the Hyundai Bayon is likely to get a 1.5-litre MPI petrol engine, which could produce 114 bhp of power and 144 Nm of torque. A 6-speed manual or an IVT automatic gearbox may be offered.

A CNG option is also said to be coming in this SUV. If an underbody CNG tank is provided, boot space could be easier to use. However, final details on the engine, gearbox and CNG option will become clear only after the company's official announcement.

Turning to the Renault Duster Hybrid, it is expected to get the company's E-Tech strong hybrid technology. According to the information provided, it could have a 1.8-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and two electric motors. The powertrain's combined output is stated to be 160 bhp of power and 172 Nm of torque. It may come with a 1.4 kWh battery pack and a multi-mode automatic transmission.

Hybrid technology could help save fuel in city driving. According to Renault's claim, the Duster Hybrid can run in electric mode for about 80 per cent of the time in certain urban driving conditions. The actual experience and fuel economy will depend on road conditions, driving style and other factors. With the price to be announced on October 17, customers remain eager.

Several popular models already exist in the midsize SUV segment. The Hyundai Bayon could add one more option to Hyundai's SUV portfolio, while the Renault Duster Hybrid's strong hybrid technology could set it apart. Their arrival could create competition with models such as the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Victoris, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder and Kia Seltos. The upcoming Nissan model may also face competition in this segment. How these vehicles perform in the market will depend on their price, features, mileage, variants and customers' response.

Those thinking of buying an SUV for Diwali should not decide on design or engine power alone. It will be important to compare the final price, real-world mileage, maintenance cost, safety features and available variants. A clear comparison of price and features of the Hyundai Bayon and the Renault Duster Hybrid will be possible only after official details emerge. Until then, the two new SUVs are being seen as key options for the coming festive season.