What to Know About the 2027 Hyundai KONA

Jones Junction - What to Know About the 2027 Hyundai KONA

The 2027 Hyundai KONA continues to stand out as a smart, stylish, and practical small SUV for drivers who want everyday versatility without moving into a larger vehicle. As a carry-over model from the 2026 model year, the 2027 KONA keeps the core strengths that have made it appealing: a confident design, useful interior space, modern connectivity, available all-wheel drive, and a strong lineup of safety and driver-assistance technologies. For shoppers comparing compact SUVs, the KONA remains a compelling choice because it balances maneuverability with a cabin that feels thoughtfully packaged.

At Jones Junction, we know many shoppers want a vehicle that is easy to drive, comfortable for daily routines, and flexible enough for work, errands, commuting, and weekend plans. The 2027 KONA fits that mission well, offering two gas engine options, a clean and modern interior layout, and trim levels that make it easier to choose the right mix of features. If you are researching the 2027 Hyundai KONA near Maryland communities and want a helpful overview before visiting our dealership serving Baltimore, White Marsh, and Abingdon, this guide covers the key highlights.

A Confident Small SUV With Practical Dimensions

The 2027 Hyundai KONA is classified as a small SUV, but its design makes excellent use of space. With an overall length of 171.3 inches, a 104.7-inch wheelbase, and 71.9 inches of width, the KONA is compact enough for easy parking while still providing a comfortable interior. Front passengers get 41.7 inches of leg room, while the second row offers 38.2 inches, which is generous for the segment. Cargo space is also a major advantage, with 25.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and up to 63.7 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded down.

That balance is one of the KONA's biggest strengths. It feels city-friendly, but not limited. The dual-level cargo floor adds flexibility for groceries, gear, luggage, and everyday items. The 60/40 split flat-folding rear seatback gives drivers more ways to carry passengers and cargo at the same time. Whether you are upgrading from a sedan or downsizing from a larger SUV, the KONA provides a useful middle ground.

Engine Options and Driving Feel

The 2027 KONA offers two gas powertrains depending on trim. SE and SEL Sport models use a 2.0L MPI Atkinson 4-cylinder engine rated at 147 horsepower and 132 lb.-ft. of torque. This engine is paired with an Intelligent Variable Transmission and is designed for smooth, efficient daily driving. SEL Premium and Limited models step up to a 1.6L Turbo-GDI 4-cylinder engine with 190 horsepower and 195 lb.-ft. of torque. The turbocharged engine pairs with an 8-speed automatic transmission, giving the KONA a more responsive feel for drivers who prefer added acceleration.

Front-wheel drive is standard, while Active On-Demand all-wheel drive is available. Drive Mode Select is included, with Normal and Sport modes on front-wheel-drive models. All-wheel-drive versions add Snow mode, which can be useful when extra traction management is preferred. The KONA also includes helpful driving hardware such as motor-driven power steering, 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Downhill Brake Control, and Hillstart Assist Control.

• Standard engine: The 2.0L 4-cylinder provides a balanced mix of efficiency and everyday drivability.
• Available turbo engine: The 1.6L Turbo-GDI adds stronger horsepower and torque for a more energetic drive.
• Available all-wheel drive: Active On-Demand AWD adds confidence for changing road conditions.
• Transmission choices: The 2.0L uses an Intelligent Variable Transmission, while turbo models use an 8-speed automatic.

Fuel Economy That Supports Daily Driving

For many shoppers, fuel economy plays a major role in choosing a small SUV. The 2027 KONA performs well in this area. SE and SEL Sport front-wheel-drive models are rated at 28 city, 35 highway, and 31 combined mpg. With all-wheel drive, those models are rated at 26 city, 29 highway, and 27 combined mpg. The turbocharged SEL Premium and Limited models are rated at 26 city, 32 highway, and 28 combined mpg with front-wheel drive, while AWD versions are rated at 24 city, 29 highway, and 26 combined mpg.

Those numbers make the KONA a practical option for drivers who want SUV utility without sacrificing efficiency. Recommended fuel is regular unleaded for both engines, which helps keep ownership simple. For shoppers comparing the KONA to other small SUVs, the mix of fuel economy, available AWD, and usable cargo space makes the 2027 model especially well-rounded.

Exterior Design and Trim-Level Style

The KONA has a bold exterior that gives it a more expressive personality than many small SUVs. Every trim includes LED projector headlights, LED daytime running lights, automatic headlights, LED taillights, and High Beam Assist. Wheel designs vary by trim, with 17-inch alloy wheels on SE, 18-inch alloy wheels on SEL Sport, and 19-inch alloy wheels on SEL Premium and Limited. The result is a progressive look that becomes more upscale as you move through the lineup.

Practical details are also built in. Heated outside mirrors are included on SEL Sport and above, while SEL Premium and Limited add side mirror turn signal indicators. Roof rails are standard on SEL Sport and higher trims, and the Limited trim adds upscale convenience with a power tilt-and-slide sunroof, hands-free smart liftgate with auto open, and satin chrome exterior accents. These details help the KONA feel both functional and polished.

Interior Comfort, Technology, and Convenience

Inside, the 2027 KONA feels modern and user-friendly. Every trim seats five and includes a 12.3-inch touchscreen audio system with AM/FM/SiriusXM, HD Radio, 6 speakers, wireless Android Auto, and wireless Apple CarPlay. Front and rear USB-C outlets are standard, helping passengers stay connected. A rear view monitor with parking guidance is also included across the lineup.

Comfort features increase as you move up the trim range. SEL Sport adds heated front seats, wireless device charging, LED interior lights, illuminated sunvisors, and a rear center armrest with cupholders. SEL Premium and Limited add H-Tex trimmed seating surfaces, a power driver's seat, lumbar support, paddle shifters, premium soft-touch door panels, and retractable rotary-style front cupholders. Limited models add ventilated front seats, a Bose premium audio system, Surround View Monitor, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, auto-dimming rearview mirror, and ambient lighting.

• Everyday tech: A 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone integration, and multiple USB-C ports come standard.
• Premium available features: Limited models offer Bose audio, Surround View Monitor, ventilated front seats, and a digital instrument cluster.
• Flexible storage: The dual-level cargo floor and fold-flat rear seatbacks support different cargo needs.
• Connected capability: Bluelink connected services and over-the-air software updates are standard.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Hyundai equips the 2027 KONA with a strong collection of safety features across every trim. Standard systems include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with pedestrian, cyclist, junction turning, and direct oncoming detection, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist, Blind-Spot Collision Warning, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, Driver Attention Warning, Safe Exit Warning, Rear Occupant Alert, Intelligent Speed Limit Assist, and High Beam Assist. This broad standard safety package is one of the KONA's most attractive qualities.

Passive safety features include advanced front airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags with rollover sensors, 3-point seatbelts, rear LATCH anchors, child safety locks, front and rear seatbelt reminders, and an anti-theft system. The Limited trim adds Parking Distance Warning with forward, side, and reverse detection, plus Remote Smart Parking Assist. For drivers who value both awareness and convenience, these features help make the KONA feel confident in everyday driving situations.

What Changed for the 2027 Hyundai KONA?

Because the 2027 Hyundai KONA is a carry-over model, major design and engineering changes are limited. Hyundai notes two key updates compared with the 2026 model year. Idle Stop and Go is dropped from the SE trim, and ambient lighting availability moves to the Limited trim. For most shoppers, the big story is continuity: the 2027 KONA keeps the design, technology, safety features, and powertrain choices that already made the previous model appealing.

That continuity can be a good thing. When a model carries over with proven strengths, shoppers can focus on selecting the right trim rather than sorting through a complicated redesign. The SE trim remains a value-minded entry point, the SEL Sport adds popular comfort and style features, the SEL Premium brings the turbocharged engine and enhanced interior details, and the Limited delivers the most complete premium experience.

Which 2027 KONA Trim May Be Right for You?

1. SE: A practical choice for drivers who want essential technology, standard safety features, and efficient performance.
2. SEL Sport: A strong step up with heated front seats, wireless charging, larger wheels, roof rails, and added comfort features.
3. SEL Premium: A great fit for shoppers who want the 1.6L turbo engine, H-Tex seating, 19-inch wheels, and a more upscale cabin.
4. Limited: The top choice for premium features such as ventilated front seats, Bose audio, Surround View Monitor, sunroof, hands-free smart liftgate, and ambient lighting.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Is the 2027 Hyundai KONA a redesigned model?

No. The 2027 Hyundai KONA is a carry-over model from the 2026 model year, keeping the same overall design, powertrain lineup, and core features with only limited equipment changes.

Does the 2027 Hyundai KONA offer all-wheel drive?

Yes. Front-wheel drive is standard, and Active On-Demand all-wheel drive is available across the lineup. AWD models also include a Snow drive mode in addition to Normal and Sport.

How much cargo space does the 2027 KONA have?

The 2027 KONA offers 25.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and up to 63.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.

Which 2027 KONA trims have the turbocharged engine?

The SEL Premium and Limited trims use the 1.6L Turbo-GDI 4-cylinder engine, which produces 190 horsepower and 195 lb.-ft. of torque.

Is wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard?

Yes. Wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto are standard on every 2027 Hyundai KONA trim.

The 2027 Hyundai KONA is a smart pick for drivers who want a small SUV with expressive style, useful space, strong standard safety features, and modern technology. With efficient and turbocharged engine choices, available all-wheel drive, and four well-defined trims, it gives shoppers plenty of flexibility without feeling overwhelming. For anyone comparing small SUVs, the KONA deserves a close look.

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