AFFORDABLE these days means around the £20,000 mark, so with Hyndai's recent newcomer, the Bayon, you are not looking in the bargain basement, particularly with this range topper at well over £25,000.

But, starting from £20,295, the SE Connect 1.0 T-GDI 100ps six-speed 48V mild hybrid includes a comprehensive specification that just gets better as you move up the range from Premium to Ultimate.

You are not spoiled for engine choice. A single three-cylinder petrol engine with 1.0-litre T-GDi engine with 48V mild hybrid technology is available with either 120 or 100ps.

The 120ps unit in this case was mated to a six-speed transmission. Both are economical with the tested model here delivering around 52mpg.

It also features three drive modes to optimise the engine response and steering performance offering a sedate, to a more sporty drive.

Hitting 60mph in just over 10 seconds, it is not particularly rapid, but the mild hybrid delivers additional torque during acceleration, while the rasp of the three-pot engine in the background under acceleration, it feels quicker.

It does have a distinctive look - with angular body lines and the front featuring a deep wide patterned grille and triangular-shaped light clusters.

These sit below a slim air intake incorporating smart daytime running lights.

Neat finishing touches include 17-inch Alloy wheels, roof rails and spoiler and body-coloured bumpers.

To the rear, it features a unique arrow design incorporating full LED lights and indicators

The interior is smart, functional and offers some top end features usually found on more expensive cars.

It features high-quality fabric seats with easy access and offers a commanding driving position.

Hyundai claims a best-in-class digital cockpit and top-line infotainment features which includes a Bose sound system together with ambient lighting and wireless charging.

The central point for the SUV is a 10.25-inch digital instrument panel and a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen which can accommodate wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Owners can also create user profiles using the BlueLink smartphone app, see where they've parked the car and remotely unlock it, and display events on the navigation screen.

One of the two front USB ports also allows data transfer, enabling occupants to connect their phone to the vehicle's infotainment system.

In practical terms, at 4,180 mm long, 1,775mm wide, and 1,490mm tall passengers have pretty good head and legroom for a vehicle of these dimensions.

In addition the 411 litres of boot space increases to a maximum of 1,206, which is spacious for a car of this size.

On the road, the 120ps engine has plenty of torque and decent initial acceleration.

Despite its SUV designation, it feels stable on corners, while the ride is generally comfortable.