Hyundai Bayon-Based SUV to Get Petrol and CNG Engine Options, Hybrid Reserved for Next-Gen Creta

Hyundai is gearing up to strengthen its presence in India‘s competitive mid-size SUV market with a new Bayon-based crossover. The upcoming model will target buyers looking for an affordable and fuel-efficient SUV by offering a naturally aspirated petrol engine at launch, followed by a factory-fitted CNG variant shortly thereafter.

Unlike the next-generation Creta, the Bayon-based SUV is not expected to receive diesel or hybrid engine options. Instead, Hyundai plans to position it as a more accessible offering with lower running costs, while the Creta continues as the brand’s premium SUV with multiple powertrain choices.

Hyundai Bayon-Based SUV Engine and Transmission Options

The new SUV is expected to use Hyundai’s familiar 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, the same powerplant currently available in the Creta.

Customers are likely to have a choice between:

• 6-speed manual transmission.
• CVT automatic gearbox.

Hyundai is also planning to introduce a factory-fitted CNG version soon after the petrol model goes on sale, giving buyers a more economical fuel option without compromising practicality.

CNG Variant to Feature Underbody Tank Design

One of the highlights of the upcoming Bayon-based SUV will be its factory-fitted CNG system.

Unlike conventional dual-cylinder CNG setups that occupy luggage space, Hyundai is expected to use an underbody-mounted CNG tank. This layout will allow the SUV to retain its spare wheel while preserving cargo capacity.

If launched as expected, it will become Hyundai’s first vehicle longer than four metres in India to offer a CNG powertrain.

At present, Hyundai offers factory-fitted CNG options only on smaller models such as the:

• Hyundai Exter
• Hyundai Grand i10 Nios
• Hyundai Aura

Positioning Below the Next-Generation Creta

Hyundai plans to adopt a two-SUV strategy in the mid-size segment.

The Bayon-based SUV will serve as the entry-level model, focusing on affordability, fuel efficiency and practical ownership costs.

Meanwhile, the next-generation Creta will continue as the premium offering with a broader range of engine options, including Hyundai’s upcoming hybrid Technology.

This strategy allows Hyundai to cater to customers with different budgets while expanding its presence in one of India’s fastest-growing automotive segments.

What We Know About the Hyundai Bayon-Based SUV

Internally known by the codename BC4i, the Bayon-based SUV is expected to be one of Hyundai India’s major launches during FY2027.

The model has already been spotted testing both overseas and on Indian roads, giving a glimpse of its crossover-inspired styling.

Expected exterior highlights include:

• Modern crossover design.
• LED headlamps and tail lamps.
• Dual-tone alloy wheels.
• Sporty front and rear styling.

The SUV is expected to measure approximately 4.18 metres in length, placing it squarely in the mid-size SUV category.

Expected Features

Hyundai is likely to equip the Bayon-based SUV with a comprehensive list of premium features aimed at attracting urban buyers.

Expected equipment includes:

• Large touchscreen infotainment system.
• Digital instrument cluster.
• Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
• Automatic climate control.
• Connected car technology.
• Panoramic sunroof (variant dependent).
• Ventilated front seats.
• Wireless phone charging.
• 360-degree camera.
• Multiple airbags.
• Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).

Expected Launch Timeline

Hyundai is expected to introduce the petrol-powered Bayon-based SUV first, with the factory-fitted CNG version following shortly afterward.

Industry reports suggest the CNG model could make its debut by September 2026, further expanding Hyundai’s CNG portfolio in India.

Key Highlights

• New Hyundai Bayon-based SUV to launch in India with a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine.
• Manual and CVT transmission options are expected.
• Factory-fitted CNG variant to arrive soon after launch.
• Underbody-mounted CNG tank will retain luggage space and spare wheel.
• No diesel or hybrid option expected for this model.
• Next-generation Creta will continue as Hyundai’s premium SUV with hybrid technology.
• Expected to feature ADAS and a premium feature list.
• CNG version is likely to debut by September 2026.

Conclusion

With the upcoming Bayon-based SUV, Hyundai appears to be targeting buyers seeking a stylish, feature-rich and fuel-efficient alternative in the mid-size SUV segment. By combining a proven petrol engine with a practical factory-fitted CNG option, the company aims to attract cost-conscious customers while reserving advanced hybrid technology for the next-generation Creta. The dual-model strategy could help Hyundai strengthen its position in one of India’s most competitive automotive segments.