Hyundai launches Bayon SUV in India from Rs 9.99 lakh with dual screens and ADAS

Hyundai has introduced its new SUV, the Bayon, in the Indian market. It is aimed at buyers looking for an SUV with newer technology and better safety. The starting ex-showroom price is Rs 9.99 lakh. It comes with a 115 PS petrol engine, two 12.3-inch curved screens and six airbags. Bookings have opened, and the company plans to begin deliveries in the festive season.

Customers can book the vehicle by paying Rs 11,000. Buyers should check the exact delivery date and the conditions for a refund of the booking amount with an authorised dealer.

The SUV has a 1.5-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine that produces a maximum power of 115 PS and a maximum torque of 143.8 Nm. There are two gearbox options, manual and iVT automatic. The iVT variant gets Dash Boost Mode and Sporty Drive Tech. It also has paddle shifters and three drive modes: Eco, Normal and Sport.

Inside, the car has two 12.3-inch curved screens. Another key feature is Hyundai India's generative AI voice assistant. More than 500 voice commands in English, Hindi, Hinglish, Tamil, Bengali and Telugu work without internet. Up to 19 controllers can receive over-the-air software updates. More than 70 connectivity features are available through Bluelink.

On safety, the Bayon has six airbags, electronic stability control and more than 35 standard safety features in all. The Level 2 Pro ADAS system, available depending on the variant, has 23 functions, three radars and 12 parking sensors. The company claims the car has been designed with a 5-star rating under Indian safety standards in mind. The claim is based on the company's own internal assessment.

The Bayon is sold in 10 colours: six single-colour options, two dual-tone options of Atlas White and Fiery Red with a black roof, and two matte colours, Titanium Black and Classy Blue. At about 4.2 metres long, it will compete with the Maruti Suzuki Victoris and the Honda Elevate. The Victoris is about 4.3 metres long, and the company claims a mileage of 28.65 kmpl for its strong hybrid variant, though that variant starts at Rs 16.43 lakh. The Honda Elevate has a 1.5-litre petrol engine and focuses on practical everyday use.

The Bayon's main highlights are its two screens, AI voice assistant, six standard airbags and ADAS technology. Buyers should compare prices variant by variant before buying, as the iVT gearbox and ADAS can raise the price. Before booking, they should confirm with the dealer the final price, the waiting time for delivery and the conditions for a refund of the Rs 11,000 booking amount.