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Hyundai Bayon: engines, refresh and trims
The Hyundai Bayon is a compact city crossover designed for Europe and has been on sale since 2021. We look at how the first and refreshed models differ, which engines and gearboxes are available, how the trims vary and what to check when buying a used Bayon.
Bayon in brief
The Bayon's tech is closely related to the i20 hatchback, but it has a higher body and a larger boot – around 400 litres. The car is built in Turkey, at the Izmit plant, and is one of Hyundai's smallest crossovers, smaller than the Kona. All Bayons come with front-wheel drive only.
The Bayon is for those who need a compact, easy-to-drive and economical car for the city, but want a higher driving position. The interior materials are basic, with plenty of hard plastic, but the equipment, especially in higher trims, is quite generous.
First and refreshed Bayon – how they differ
The Bayon has had one facelift. The first cars (2021–2023) make up the majority of the used market. Up front, they have a narrow light bar at the top and main headlights positioned lower down, while the size of the instrument cluster and infotainment screens depends on the trim.
2024 Bayon facelift: revised bumpers and headlights, modernised interior and infotainment system, additional driver-assistance features. Facelifted models are rarer on the used market, so they typically command a premium. Technically, both generations are very similar, so when choosing, condition, mileage and spec are more important than the year.
Engines and gearboxes
The most basic engine is the naturally aspirated 1.2 MPi (around 80–85hp), usually paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox. It's simple and reliable, but it clearly lacks power in town and with a full load.
The most popular choice is the 1.0 T-GDi turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine, usually around 100hp, with some early models featuring a 120hp variant. Many come with a 48V mild-hybrid system, which helps with acceleration and slightly reduces fuel consumption.
The 1.0 T-GDi is paired with a 6-speed manual, clever manual iMT (clutch controlled by electronics) or a 7-speed dual-clutch DCT gearbox. There are no diesel, hybrid or electric Bayon variants.
What to check when buying a used Bayon
If the car has a DCT gearbox, test it from a standstill and driving slowly in traffic: shifts should be smooth, without hesitation or judders. Dry-clutch gearboxes face more stress in city driving, so it's worth asking about the service history.
In light hybrid cars, check if the automatic engine start-stop system is working and if there are no errors on the instrument cluster. For the turbocharged 1.0 T-GDi, regular oil changes are crucial, so check the service history and maintenance records.
The Bayon is often used in the city, so inspect the bumpers, wheel arches, and underbody for any signs of parking damage. Hyundai in Europe usually offers a long manufacturer's warranty, so ask if it's still valid and if the car has been maintained according to its terms.
Trim levels
Names and equipment vary by country and year; we list the trim levels commonly found in Germany and other European countries.
Select
From 2021Base trim with essential equipment.
- Mostly the 1.2 MPi or 1.0 T-GDi engine
- Air conditioning and a basic infotainment system
- Often — steel wheels
Trend
From 2021The most popular choice — a good balance of price and equipment.
- Light alloy wheels
- Often — navigation and a rear-view camera
- Often — heated seats and steering wheel
Prime
From 2021The most generously equipped version.
- Often — LED headlights and 17-inch wheels
- Often — automatic climate control and wireless phone charger
- More driver assistance systems
N Line
Updated version (from 2024)Sporty-looking version with standard engines.
- Sportier bumpers and alloy wheels
- N Line interior details
- Mostly the 1.0 T-GDi engine
Trim comparison
| Select | Trend | Prime | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | Ideal for everyday driving | Suitable for most buyers | For comfort and equipment enthusiasts |
| Alloy wheels (most often) | 15–16 in. | 16–17 in. | 17 col. |
| Interior | Base | More comfort features | Top-spec |
| Engine | 1.2 MPi, 1.0 T-GDi | 1.0 T-GDi, often 48 V | 1.0 T-GDi, often 48 V |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | € | €€ | €€€ |
For most buyers, the best choice is the Trend with the 1.0 T-GDi engine: it's significantly more refined than the 1.2 MPi and often comes with all the necessary kit. The Prime is worth considering if LED headlights and more driver aids are important.
Pros
- Compact and easy to handle in the city
- Spacious boot for its class
- Economical petrol engines
- Generous equipment in higher trims
Cons
- Front-wheel drive only
- Lots of hard plastic in the cabin
- The 1.2 MPi engine often lacks power in urban areas
Frequently asked questions
How does the Bayon differ from the Kona?
The Bayon is smaller and simpler: it's akin to the i20 hatchback, has front-wheel drive only and petrol engines exclusively. The Kona is larger, more spacious and is also available as a hybrid or electric vehicle.
Which Bayon engine to choose?
For most buyers, the best option is the 1.0 T-GDi, usually around 100 HP: it's powerful enough both in urban areas and in the city. The 1.2 MPi is suitable only for those who mostly drive in the city and want the simplest option.
Is it worth buying a Bayon with an automatic gearbox?
Yes, if the DCT gearbox operates smoothly and has a service history. Before buying, test the car's movement from a standstill and driving in traffic — any hesitation or jolts are signs that it might need repair.
Updated 2026-10-09 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
