Hyundai Unveils the All-New BAYON and TUCSON at Paris Motor Show 2023
Hyundai made a significant impact at the Paris Motor Show 2023 by launching its latest models, including the world premiere of the brand-new BAYON. This redesigned B-SUV combines aggressive styling with advanced technology, targeting urban drivers seeking a compact vehicle with SUV characteristics. The BAYON N Line enhances this appeal with sporty elements like 18-inch wheels and exclusive interior touches, delivering a dynamic driving experience.
Design and Features of the New BAYON
The new BAYON features a bold front grille, sharp LED headlights, and a muscular stance. Inside, it accommodates five passengers comfortably with increased legroom and premium finishes. The interior showcases Hyundai’s latest digital cockpit, including a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch infotainment display supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The vehicle’s cargo capacity stands at 440 liters, ideal for daily errands and weekend trips.
Engine Options and Hybrid Technology
The BAYON offers a selection of efficient engines, notably a 1.0 T-GDI turbocharged petrol engine producing 90 PS and 115 PS variants. A future addition will include a 1.6 HEV hybrid with an estimated 138 PS, emitting as low as 102 g/km of CO₂. The hybrid system employs regenerative braking and a reconfigurable drive mode, mimicking electric vehicle behavior for city commuting and highway driving.
Advanced Safety and Driver Assistance
The new BAYON integrates Hyundai’s Hyundai SmartSense suite, which includes features such as:
- Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA 2)
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist 2 (FCA 2)
- Lane Following Assist 2 (LFA 2)
- Blind-Spot View Monitor (BVM)
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist (RCCA)
This comprehensive package ensures enhanced safety for all occupants during urban driving, highway travel, and parking maneuvers.
The New TUCSON: Bigger, Smarter, and More Innovative
Hyundai introduced the redesigned TUCSON with increased dimensions, delivering more space and comfort. This SUV now features a robust exterior inspired by Hyundai’s ‘Art of Steel’ design philosophy with prominent, muscular body lines and a wider stance. Inside, the TUCSON boasts a 17-inch infotainment screen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, supporting Hyundai’s Pleos Connect system.
Passenger comfort improves with larger door openings, increased headroom (1,038 mm front, 1,002 mm rear), and a class-leading 695 liters of cargo space. The cabin incorporates a minimalist dashboard layout with a dual-layer design, offering practical storage and a modern aesthetic.
Performance, Powertrains, and Electrification
The TUCSON now offers multiple powertrain options, including:
- Internal Combustion Engines: 1.6-liter turbo petrol producing 150 PS
- Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV): 1.6-liter turbo hybrid delivering 292 PS, with an electric-only range of up to 81 km
- Hybrid (HEV): 245 PS
- Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV): Details pending, but supports fast charging up to 800V architecture for 10-20 minute top-up
The plug-in hybrid uses a 17.1 kWh battery, with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, optimizing both efficiency and driving pleasure. The vehicle supports Hyundai’s SmartSense technology, including Highway Driving Assist 2, Traffic Jam Assist, and more, ensuring safety during diverse driving conditions.
Connectivity and Interior Tech
Hyundai enhances the TUCSON with the latest Pleos Connect system, running on Android Automotive OS. Drivers access a seamless interface with voice recognition, live traffic information, and AI-powered assistant Gleo. The system manages features like remote vehicle control, software updates over-the-air (OTA), and a premium Bang & Olufsen sound system. Interior lighting includes interactive Mood Lamp options, customizable to suit driver preferences.
Electrification and Commercial Vehicle Strategy
Hyundai advances its electrification with the fully electric STARIA Cargo van, targeting commercial sectors. It offers a 450 km WLTP range, rapid 800V charging, and server-grade energy management systems suitable for urban deliveries and fleet use. The STARIA crew and cargo configurations incorporate Hyundai’s connected vehicle ecosystem, enabling real-time diagnostics, remote management, and energy transfer capabilities (V2L).
Partnerships and Future Initiatives
The Paris Motor Show also highlights Hyundai’s collaboration with UEFA Champions League, emphasizing brand prestige and global outreach. The partnership includes hosting the trophy and deploying special branding campaigns, aligning Hyundai’s commitment to performance, innovation, and community engagement.
Additionally, Hyundai explores autonomous vehicle technology, exemplified by its partnership with Waymo. Discussions focus on expanding autonomous ride-hailing services globally, leveraging Hyundai’s latest electric platforms and Waymo’s autonomous driving system. The deployment of Hyundai’s first Level 4 autonomous vehicles in North America marks a significant step toward future mobility solutions.
