Hyundai's smallest SUV gets a facelift that nobody asked for, but hey, at least it's cheaper than the competition.
The Little SUV That Could (But Probably Shouldn't)
Ah, the Hyundai Bayon. If you're scratching your head wondering what on earth that is, don't worry - you're not alone. It's Hyundai's smallest SUV, the one that makes you question whether we really needed yet another crossover in the lineup. But fear not, dear reader, for Hyundai has bestowed upon us a refreshed version for 2024. Try to contain your excitement.
A Facelift Only a Mother Could Love
Despite Hyundai's obsession with all things electric and their apparent desire to turn every vehicle into a rolling smartphone, they've remembered that some people still buy good old-fashioned petrol cars. So, they've given the Bayon the automotive equivalent of a new haircut and a fresh coat of nail polish.
What does this entail, you ask? Well, prepare to be whelmed. We've got tweaked lights (because apparently, the old ones were just too 2023), some LEDs thrown in for good measure (it's not a proper facelift without LEDs, after all), a new grille (to better inhale small insects), and restyled bumpers (to better protect you from shopping trolleys in Tesco car parks).
Screens, Screens, and More Screens
Inside, Hyundai has followed the time-honored tradition of slapping more screens into the cabin. Because nothing says "progress" like making your car's interior look like the bridge of the Starship Enterprise. You get a 10.25" digital instrument panel and a matching 10.25" infotainment screen. It's almost like they're compensating for something...
Trim Levels: From 'Meh' to 'Slightly Less Meh'
The 2024 Bayon comes in three exciting trim levels:
1. Advance (£22,480)
The base model, for those who want an SUV but don't actually want any of the features that make an SUV desirable. You get 16" alloys (because 15" would just be embarrassing), LED headlights (to better illuminate your poor life choices), and a rearview camera (because turning your head is so last century).
2. Premium (£23,880)
For those who want to feel slightly less ashamed of their purchase. This trim adds 17" alloys (for that extra inch of street cred), climate control (because manually adjusting the temperature is for peasants), a heated steering wheel (for those three days a year when the UK experiences actual winter), and front parking sensors (for when you forget how big your tiny SUV isn't).
3. Ultimate (£25,280)
The cream of the crop, the pièce de résistance, the... oh, who are we kidding? It's still a Bayon. But now you get a Bose sound system (to drown out the sound of your own regret), a glass sunroof (to better see the disappointed looks from passing motorists), and a wireless charging pad (because plugging in your phone is just too much effort).
One Engine to Rule Them All (Or Not)
In a move that can only be described as "bold" (or perhaps "cost-cutting"), Hyundai has decided that choice is overrated when it comes to engines. All Bayon models now come with a single option: a 1.0-litre engine producing a whopping 99bhp. It's like they're daring you to try and overtake anything.
You do get a choice of transmissions, though. There's a six-speed manual for those who still enjoy the art of driving, or a seven-speed DCT for those who've given up on life and just want to get from A to B with minimal effort.
A Word from the Top
Ashley Andrew, the big cheese of Hyundai and Genesis UK, had this to say about the new Bayon:
"Since its release in 2021, Bayon has proved popular with those looking for SUV style in a conveniently sized package. The latest specification enhancements will ensure Bayon remains competitive in the B segment, with its increased range of comfort and convenience features and technologies."
Translation: "We're as surprised as you are that people actually buy this thing, but as long as they do, we'll keep churning out 'updates' to justify its existence."
The Bottom Line
So, there you have it. The 2024 Hyundai Bayon - a car that answers the question nobody asked. It's cheaper than a Peugeot 2008 or a Nissan Juke, which is a bit like saying it's less painful than stubbing your toe or getting a paper cut.
But hey, if you've always wanted an SUV but found the Kona just too exciting, or you have a pathological fear of interesting cars, then the Bayon might just be for you. It's on sale now, starting at £22,480 for the Advance model. Just remember to add £1,250 if you want the DCT transmission, because apparently, making your Bayon less engaging to drive is worth paying extra for.
In conclusion, the 2024 Hyundai Bayon is here, it's slightly different from before, and it's ready to underwhelm you in ways you never thought possible. But at least it's cheap. Sort of.
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