Tustin Hyundai - What to Know About the 2027 Hyundai KONA
The 2027 Hyundai KONA continues to stand out as a smart, stylish, and easy-to-live-with small SUV for drivers who want modern technology, flexible utility, and confident everyday performance in a compact footprint. As a carry-over model from the 2026 model year, the 2027 KONA keeps the strengths that have made this SUV such a compelling choice: a roomy cabin, available all-wheel drive, intuitive safety features, and a design that feels fresh without sacrificing practicality. At Tustin Hyundai, we are excited to help shoppers learn what makes the 2027 KONA worth a closer look.
For shoppers comparing small SUVs, the KONA is appealing because it balances urban-friendly sizing with surprising interior space. It is easy to maneuver, simple to park, and comfortable enough for longer drives. The 2027 Hyundai KONA gas model offers two engine choices depending on trim, along with front-wheel drive or available Active On-Demand all-wheel drive. Add in a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen audio display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a strong roster of standard safety technologies, and the KONA feels well prepared for modern driving needs.
A Confident Small SUV With Everyday Versatility
The 2027 Hyundai KONA is classified as a small SUV, but its cabin and cargo design help it feel useful beyond the daily commute. The KONA offers seating for five, a 60/40 split flat-folding rear seatback, and a dual-level cargo floor across the lineup. With the rear seats up, cargo capacity is rated at 25.5 cubic feet. Fold the rear seats down, and cargo space expands to 63.7 cubic feet, giving drivers the flexibility to carry luggage, supplies, outdoor gear, or bulky household items.
Interior measurements also support the KONA’s practical appeal. Front leg room is listed at 41.7 inches, while rear leg room is 38.2 inches. That makes the cabin feel accommodating for a compact SUV, especially for passengers riding in the second row. The elevated seating position, thoughtful storage areas, rear USB-C power outlets, and available comfort upgrades help make the 2027 KONA a practical choice for commuters, small families, first-time SUV shoppers, and anyone moving up from a sedan or hatchback.
Engine Options and Driving Feel
The 2027 Hyundai KONA gas model offers two engine families. SE and SEL Sport trims feature a 2.0L MPI Atkinson inline 4-cylinder engine with 147 horsepower and 132 lb.-ft. of torque. This engine is paired with an Intelligent Variable Transmission, which is designed for smooth acceleration and efficient everyday driving. For shoppers who want a more energetic feel, SEL Premium and Limited trims feature a 1.6L Turbo-GDI inline 4-cylinder engine with 190 horsepower and 195 lb.-ft. of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
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 models add Snow mode, giving drivers another way to tailor vehicle response. The KONA’s compact size, responsive steering, and tight curb-to-curb turning diameter of 34.8 feet help make it feel agile in busy areas while still delivering the SUV confidence many shoppers want.
- 2.0L engine: Standard on SE and SEL Sport with 147 horsepower and an Intelligent Variable Transmission
- 1.6L turbo engine: Standard on SEL Premium and Limited with 190 horsepower and an 8-speed automatic transmission
- Available AWD: Active On-Demand all-wheel drive is optional across the lineup
- Drive modes: Normal and Sport are standard, while AWD models add Snow mode
Technology That Feels Current and Easy to Use
One of the most appealing parts of the 2027 KONA is how much technology comes standard. Every trim includes a 12.3-inch touchscreen audio system with AM/FM, SiriusXM, HD Radio, and six speakers. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility are also standard, making smartphone integration simple without needing to plug in a cable. Front dual 3-amp USB-C outlets and rear dual USB-C power outlets are included, which is useful for keeping devices charged throughout the cabin.
The KONA also includes Bluelink Connected Car System capability and over-the-air software updates. These features help support long-term convenience, allowing certain vehicle systems to stay current more easily. Higher trims add premium touches such as Bose premium audio on the Limited, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Surround View Monitor, and Remote Smart Parking Assist. Ambient lighting is available on the Limited trim for 2027, adding a more refined cabin feel with user-selectable color in select interior areas.
Comfort and Interior Features by Trim
The KONA lineup is structured to support different priorities. The SE trim focuses on value and essential technology, while the SEL Sport adds convenience upgrades such as heated front seats, LED interior lights, privacy glass, and available design enhancements. SEL Premium brings in the turbocharged engine, H-Tex trimmed seating surfaces, an 8-way power driver’s seat, power lumbar support, paddle shifters, and additional interior refinements. The Limited trim adds the most premium feature set, including ventilated front seats, a power tilt-and-slide sunroof, Bose premium audio, Surround View Monitor, hands-free smart liftgate with auto open, and the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.
Comfort details matter in a compact SUV, and the 2027 KONA includes several thoughtful touches. Available heated and ventilated front seats, rear center armrest with cupholders on most trims, dual automatic temperature control, cabin air filtration, and available LED interior lighting all contribute to a more enjoyable cabin experience. The Limited trim also includes features such as an auto-dimming rearview mirror, illuminated glove compartment, and cargo-area cover for added convenience.
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
The 2027 Hyundai KONA offers a strong list of standard safety and driver-assistance technologies. Every trim includes Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with pedestrian, cyclist, junction-turning, and direct oncoming detection. Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist, Driver Attention Warning, High Beam Assist, Intelligent Speed Limit Assist, Rear Occupant Alert, Safe Exit Warning, Blind-Spot Collision Warning, and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist are also standard. That is a notable safety package for a small SUV.
Standard active safety systems include anti-lock brakes, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control, Brake Assist, Vehicle Stability Management, and Tire Pressure Monitoring System with individual tire indicator. The Limited trim expands visibility and parking confidence with Surround View Monitor, Blind-Spot View Monitor, Parking Distance Warning for forward, side, and reverse detection with contour warning, and Remote Smart Parking Assist. For shoppers who prioritize peace of mind, this combination of standard and available technologies makes the KONA especially competitive.
- Standard collision support: Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist includes multiple detection capabilities
- Standard lane support: Lane Keeping Assist and Lane Following Assist help support confident highway driving
- Standard awareness features: Blind-Spot Collision Warning and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist are included
- Available parking support: Limited adds Surround View Monitor and Remote Smart Parking Assist
Exterior Design, Size, and Capability
The 2027 KONA has a modern exterior personality with LED projector headlights, LED daytime running lights, LED taillights, automatic headlights, and High Beam Assist across every trim. Wheel sizes vary by trim, starting with 17-inch alloys on SE, 18-inch alloys on SEL Sport, and 19-inch alloys on SEL Premium and Limited. Roof rails are standard on SEL Sport and above, while the Limited trim adds premium touches such as a power sunroof and hands-free smart liftgate.
In terms of size, the KONA measures 171.3 inches long, 71.9 inches wide, and rides on a 104.7-inch wheelbase. Ground clearance depends on drivetrain and wheel configuration, with all-wheel-drive models offering higher clearance than front-wheel-drive versions. Trailer towing is not recommended for the 2027 KONA gas model, so shoppers should view this SUV primarily as a versatile passenger and cargo vehicle rather than a towing-focused model.
Fuel Economy and Practical Ownership Considerations
Fuel economy is another reason many shoppers consider the KONA. With the 2.0L engine and front-wheel drive, the 2027 KONA is rated at 28 city, 35 highway, and 31 combined MPG. With all-wheel drive, the 2.0L model is rated at 26 city, 29 highway, and 27 combined MPG. The turbocharged 1.6L model is rated at 26 city, 32 highway, and 28 combined MPG with front-wheel drive, or 24 city, 29 highway, and 26 combined MPG with all-wheel drive.
For many drivers, the decision comes down to priorities. The 2.0L engine is a sensible fit for efficient daily driving, while the 1.6L turbo delivers stronger acceleration and a more responsive feel. Front-wheel drive maximizes efficiency, while available all-wheel drive adds confidence for varied road conditions. For shoppers near Irvine, Lake Forest, and Fountain Valley, the KONA’s blend of efficiency, technology, and maneuverability makes it a well-rounded choice for local streets, highways, errands, and weekend plans.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is the 2027 Hyundai KONA completely redesigned?
No. The 2027 Hyundai KONA gas model is a carry-over model from the 2026 model year, meaning the overall design, powertrain lineup, and feature structure remain largely familiar.
What changed for the 2027 Hyundai KONA?
For 2027, Idle Stop and Go is dropped from the SE trim, and ambient lighting is listed for the Limited trim. Most core features and specifications carry over from the prior model year.
Does the 2027 Hyundai KONA offer all-wheel drive?
Yes. Active On-Demand all-wheel drive is available across the lineup. AWD models also include Snow mode in addition to Normal and Sport drive modes.
Which 2027 KONA trim has the turbo engine?
The 1.6L turbocharged engine is standard on SEL Premium and Limited trims. SE and SEL Sport use the 2.0L engine.
Is the 2027 Hyundai KONA a good small SUV for technology?
Yes. Every trim includes a 12.3-inch touchscreen audio system, wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, USB-C outlets in both rows, Bluelink connected services, and over-the-air software update capability.
Final Thoughts on the 2027 Hyundai KONA
The 2027 Hyundai KONA remains a standout small SUV because it brings together smart packaging, bold design, helpful safety features, and modern connectivity in a vehicle that is easy to drive every day. Shoppers can choose a value-focused trim, a sportier configuration, a more powerful turbo model, or a premium Limited trim with upscale convenience features. With standard driver assistance, available all-wheel drive, generous cargo flexibility, and a tech-forward cabin, the KONA continues to be a strong option for drivers who want compact size without giving up comfort or confidence.