Right now the Bayon is only offered with an 89bhp 1.0-litre turbocharged three-cylinder with the mild-hybrid ditched from the line up in 2024. If this next-generation Bayon sits on the K2 platform, we could see the 113bhp mild-hybrid return. This would undoubtedly improve efficiency and performance, but also give it the tools to compete with the new Stonic, which does get that 1.0-litre mild-hybrid, and others like the Ford Puma mild-hybrid and Suzuki S-Cross.

All Bayons currently get twin 10.25-inch screens on the dash with integrated sat-nav and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The new car is likely to benefit from Hyundai’s usual twin 12.3-inch display – something already offered on the Kia Seltos. While we know that the company is working on its next generation of user interface, this model’s position at the more affordable end of the brand’s range suggests it’ll retain a more basic set-up. Inside, expect headroom to be a little more accommodating than in the outgoing Bayon thanks to that taller profile. 

The key stat for the new Bayon, however, will be its price. The larger Kona kicks off at just over £27,000 so we don’t expect a huge increase over the current car’s price – which starts at £23,795 in Black Line trim. 

We don’t yet know when the new Bayon will be revealed, but given the prototype’s appearance, with production-ready lighting and bodywork, we wouldn’t be surprised to see the covers come off before the end of the year. 

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