This is how Hyundai's upcoming mid-size SUV will look like

Hyundai's new mid-size SUV has been spotted testing in India, revealing more of its design and possibly dropping a subtle clue about the production name ahead of launch.Hyundai's upcoming mid-size SUV (Photo: Rushlane)Hyundai’s upcoming mid-size SUV has been spotted testing in India and this latest prototype may be dropping a subtle hint about what the production model could be called. This one wears a white wrap covered in words and phrases, with the letters ‘ON’ repeatedly highlighted in red.The most prominent message on the camouflage reads ‘BRING IT ON’, while other words include Innovation, Transformation, Inspiration, Reflection, Expression, Selection and Evolution. The repeated emphasis on ‘ON’ is particularly intriguing, as the upcoming India-spec SUV is understood to be derived from Hyundai’s global Bayon. Whether this is an intentional reference to the Bayon name or simply part of Hyundai’s pre-launch messaging remains unclear.Hyundai’s new SUV takes shape Side profile of Hyundai's upcoming mid-size SUV (Photo: Rushlane) Despite the disguise, the latest prototype reveals an upright yet crossover-inspired silhouette. The SUV gets a relatively flat roof, pronounced wheel arches, roof rails and conventional pull-type door handles. At the front, Hyundai appears to have adopted a split-lighting arrangement, with a slim LED signature positioned high up and the main lamps mounted lower on the bumper.The side profile features a rising window line and a noticeable kink around the C-pillar, while the rear gets a slim horizontal light signature and a prominent roof spoiler. The relatively upright rear section should also help create a practical cabin and boot. Rear of Hyundai's upcoming mid-size SUV (Photo: Rushlane) Interestingly, although the new SUV is based on the international Bayon, the India-spec version will reportedly feature substantially different exterior styling.Feature-packed cabin expected Interior of Hyundai's upcoming mid-size SUV (Photo: Rushlane) The interior has also been glimpsed in earlier sightings. Hyundai appears to be giving the SUV a modern dashboard with two screens integrated into a single horizontal layout. The steering wheel features the brand’s four-dot motif, representing the letter ‘H’ in Morse code, similar to the latest Venue. Equipment is expected to include a 360-degree camera, sunroof, connected-car functions and a suite of ADAS features, although the exact specification will vary by variant. The feature list is likely to be a key part of Hyundai’s strategy to position the SUV between the Venue and Creta.1.5-litre petrol and CNG optionsThe new Hyundai SUV is expected to use the company’s 1.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine. In the Creta, this motor develops 115bhp and 143.8Nm of torque and will likely be paired with a six-speed manual or CVT. Hyundai is also expected to offer a factory-fitted CNG version, potentially making this its first SUV measuring over four metres to receive a CNG powertrain.The new model is expected to launch around the festive season, with prices likely to fall in the Rs 10-15 lakh range, positioning it below the Creta and putting it directly into the growing mid-size SUV market.Subscribe to Auto Today Magazine - EndsPublished On: Sep 2, 2026 16:43 IST