ON THE ROAD- IAN LYNAS ON A NEW SUV FROM HYUNDAI

Hyundai Motor has taken the wraps off their revised Bayon, yet another crossover SUV to add to the ever expanding list of vehicles in the busy B-segment of the market. The newcomer features a bold and robust design with an extensive list of intelligent connectivity and safety features that make it stand out and it has also been refined with interior and tech upgrades.

With a sharp and distinctive exterior design, one specifically for the European customer; front daytime running lights bar has been integrated to create a seamless horizon light signature and the shape and pattern of the front bumper, as well as the radiator grille, have been enhanced to create a bolder and more rugged appearance, while the rear also features a redesigned bumper and newly designed 16 and 17 inch wheels have been added. On the side of this vehicle, a dynamic shoulder provides a wedge-shaped look and to the rear, arrow-shaped lights underline the pillar dynamics, creating a wide stance with their far-out position. Overall, angular lines, triangular shapes, and horizontal lines in both the vehicle body and the light architecture emphasise width and give the Bayon a strong, pleasing modern appearance.

When it arrives on our shore, no date has been given we can expect a total of nine exterior colours including four new colours: Lumen Grey Pearl, Meta Blue Pearl, Lucid Lime Metallic and Vibrant Blue Pearl and an optional two-tone roof in Phantom Black is also available with several exterior colours. Which all shows just how important colour choice is when purchasing a new vehicle. Which leads me to the name of a vehicle and how it is derived. On this occasion the name was inspired by a vacation hotspot: Bayonne, the capital of the French Basque Country and one of the most beautiful destinations in the south-west of France. Therefore it follows as the Bayon is designed to meet the demands of the European market, Hyundai decided to give it a European name. Today there is a major emphasis on technology in vehicles and this new offering from Hyundai will deliver advanced connectivity technology. Its state-of-the-art digital cockpit and top-line infotainment features have been made even better, thanks to the introduction of Over-the-Air map updates. Those who decide on a Bayon will benefit from a 10.25 inch LCD instrument cluster, with a separate 10.25 inch audio visual navigation screen as standard and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless charger, and the latest update to Bluelink telematics. Safety for driver and fellow travellers is paramount and there is a number of semi-autonomous driving features aimed to set, this newcomer apart from its competitors; such as Lane Following Assist which works to keep the vehicle centred in its lane. Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist first sounds an alarm, then, if necessary, applies the brakes to prevent a collision from occurring. This feature includes car, pedestrian, and cyclist detection, as well as junction turning, which can apply the brakes to prevent a collision with an oncoming car when turning at an intersection.

Another advanced feature is navigation-based Smart Cruise Control, this uses data from the vehicle’s navigation system to adjust speed autonomously when driving on a highway or expressway. Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist uses multiple sensors positioned around the car to monitor corners and, if another vehicle is detected, a visual alert appears on the exterior mirrors. Where necessary, BCA acts on the differential brake to avoid a collision or reduce the impact damage. Several features that gently redirect the driver’s attention when their focus slips; Driver Attention Warning analyses driving patterns to help detect drowsy or distracted driving. This system works in tandem with Leading Vehicle Departure Alert, which alerts the driver when the vehicle ahead of them starts moving forward and Bayon now features second-generation eCall based on the 4G network, which automatically alerts emergency services if the vehicle’s airbags are deployed in case of an accident. Alternatively, occupants can also activate this feature with the press of a button.

The Bayon will be the smallest member of the Hyundai SUV line-up when it arrives; no definite news as yet on power units; however reports in the European press are giving very encouraging reports on economy; something which we all cherish.

Ian lynas