Hyundai Bayon based SUV to launch with petrol and CNG engine options — Top things to know!
- 1Hyundai is testing a new compact SUV under the codename Bc4i
- 2SUV is expected to launch first with a naturally aspirated petrol engine
- 3A factory-fitted CNG version is expected to follow shortly after launch
Hyundai is preparing to expand its India SUV lineup with a new Bayon-based model. According to recent reports, the upcoming SUV will be offered with petrol and CNG powertrain options, while diesel and hybrid versions are not expected. Currently under testing in India and overseas, the SUV is likely to be positioned below the Creta as part of Hyundai's growing SUV lineup.
Hyundai Bayon-based SUV to launch with petrol first, CNG to follow
According to reports, the Bayon-based SUV will launch first with a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, while a factory-fitted CNG version is expected to follow soon after. Hyundai is unlikely to offer diesel or hybrid versions of this SUV. The petrol model is expected to use the same 1.5-litre engine found in the current Creta, paired with either a manual gearbox or a CVT automatic.
The CNG version is expected to use the same 1.5-litre engine but with an underbody-mounted CNG tank instead of the conventional boot-mounted cylinder. This setup is expected to preserve boot space while also retaining a spare wheel. This is an advantage over many existing CNG cars, where the cylinder occupies a large part of the boot.
What is known about the model so far
Internally codenamed Bc4i, the Bayon-based SUV is expected to be one of two new Hyundai models arriving in FY2027. It has already been spotted testing in India and overseas, revealing a crossover-inspired design with LED lighting and dual-tone alloy wheels. The SUV is expected to measure around 4.18 metres in length, placing it below the Creta. Expected features include ADAS, along with other premium equipment, while its launch is likely to take place by September 2026.
Upcoming Hyundai Bayon-based SUV could give Hyundai its first midsize CNG SUV
The upcoming Bayon-based SUV will sit below the Creta in Hyundai's lineup. The Bc4i will slot between the Exter and the Venue in Hyundai's India lineup, filling a gap between the smaller micro-SUV and the established compact-SUV territory.
If launched with a factory-fitted CNG option, it will also become Hyundai's first model longer than 4 metres to offer CNG. Currently, the company limits factory-fitted CNG to smaller models such as the Exter, Grand i10 Nios, and Aura. This move would give buyers a more fuel-efficient option in Hyundai's midsize SUV range.
The new SUV is expected to rival the Maruti Victoris, which currently offers an underbody-mounted CNG tank but misses out on a spare wheel. According to leaked reports, Hyundai's SUV is expected to retain both the underbody CNG tank and a spare wheel, making it a better choice.
Upcoming Hyundai SUV launch timeline, pricing, and rivals
Launch is targeted for Q2 FY2027, which translates to the July to September 2026 window. Pricing is expected to be in the range of Rs 8 lakh to approximately Rs 15.65 lakh, broadly in line with the current Venue.
Its primary rivals will be the Maruti Suzuki Fronx, Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor, Renault Kiger, and Nissan Magnite. Given Hyundai's track record with value positioning in this segment, the Bc4i is expected to be a competitive entry.
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