2027 Hyundai Kona Review, Engine, Configurations

2027 Hyundai Kona Review, Engine, Configurations – The 2027 Hyundai Kona enters a new generation with a complete overhaul that transforms it into a more mature, more spacious, and more tech-savvy subcompact SUV. Hyundai’s approach for this redesign was “EV-first,” meaning the design was originally intended for the electric model and then adapted for internal combustion and hybrid versions.

This strategy gives the new Kona a clean, modern appearance and better cabin packaging. The overall length increases by nearly six inches, with a longer wheelbase offering more room for passengers and cargo. 2027 Hyundai Kona Review

2027 Hyundai Kona Redesign and Update Plan

Exterior & Interior

From a visual standpoint, the 2027 Kona pushes the boundaries of subcompact SUV styling. The floating roof design, hidden rear wiper, flush door handles, and sharp rear light blade give the vehicle a high-tech, almost concept-car look.

Buyers can select between monochrome finishes or bold two-tone color schemes, including standout options like Meta Blue with a contrasting Abyss Black roof. Wheel sizes range from 17 to 19 inches, depending on the trim, and Hyundai has fine-tuned the suspension to better match each version’s visual identity—comfort-biased for the Limited, firmer and more reactive for the N Line.

Inside, the Kona’s transformation is even more apparent. The dashboard features a wide twin-screen setup with a 12.3-inch digital cluster and 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment unit housed under one curved glass panel. Ambient lighting, customizable themes, and tactile physical controls for climate settings blend digital polish with real-world usability.

Storage is vastly improved, thanks to a flat floor and repositioned gear selector (now a stalk behind the steering wheel). Rear passengers benefit from increased legroom, reclining seatbacks, and USB-C ports, while cargo capacity grows to 26 cubic feet behind the second row and up to 63 cubic feet with the seats folded.

Styling changes are dramatic. The front fascia adopts a seamless horizontal light bar—a now-signature Hyundai look—paired with crisp edges and aggressive surfacing that set it apart in a crowded segment. The grille is lower and wider, framed by stacked vertical headlamp clusters for a more assertive expression. Every trim level has its own styling tweaks: N Line adds a sportier front bumper and black accents, while the rugged XRT trim (new for 2027) features chunkier cladding and skid plates. Aerodynamics have also been optimized with active grille shutters and carefully sculpted air curtains.

2027 Hyundai Kona Specs

Engine & Performance

The 2027 Hyundai Kona lineup includes three powertrain options: a standard gasoline engine, a turbocharged performance variant, and a fully electric version. Base models use a 2.0-liter inline-four producing 147 horsepower, paired with an updated CVT that’s been retuned for smoother acceleration and improved fuel economy.

The N Line and XRT trims step up to a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder generating 190 horsepower, now paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission that replaces the previous dual-clutch gearbox. The result is more consistent shifts and less low-speed jerkiness, especially in city traffic.

The Kona Electric continues to be a major focus. For 2027, it features a 64.8-kWh battery pack paired with a single front-mounted motor producing 201 horsepower. Range increases to an EPA-estimated 270 miles thanks to better battery chemistry and improved efficiency.

Fast charging is quicker, too—10% to 80% now takes around 43 minutes on a DC fast charger. All-wheel drive is available on both gas-powered variants but remains unavailable on the EV. Driving dynamics have been tightened across the board, with better steering calibration and reduced body roll for more confident cornering without sacrificing comfort. 2027 Hyundai Kona Review

2027 Hyundai Kona Fuel Economy 

The 2027 Kona delivers excellent fuel efficiency across the lineup. The base 2.0L FWD variant returns an estimated 31 mpg city and 38 mpg highway, while the turbocharged 1.6L delivers slightly less at 29/34 mpg due to increased power. All-wheel-drive versions see a small reduction in efficiency but still remain competitive within the segment. The electric Kona, as mentioned earlier, offers up to 270 miles of range, making it ideal for urban commuters or weekend adventurers alike.

2027 Hyundai Kona Safety Features

Hyundai has made safety a priority for the 2027 Kona, standardizing its latest SmartSense suite across all trims. This includes forward collision warning with pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, driver attention warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality. New for this generation is Junction Turning Assist, which helps prevent collisions while making left-hand turns at intersections by applying brakes automatically if oncoming traffic is detected.

Upper trims add a more sophisticated Highway Driving Assist system that combines adaptive cruise and lane centering, along with a 360-degree surround view monitor, parking collision-avoidance assist, and front and rear parking sensors. A digital key (available via smartphone) and Safe Exit Assist further enhance convenience and child safety. The Kona also includes a front center airbag between the driver and passenger to reduce injury during side collisions. These enhancements not only boost safety ratings but also make the Kona feel like a class-above vehicle in daily use.

2027 Hyundai Kona Release Date & Price

Pricing begins at around $25,500 for the base SE model, while the SEL starts near $27,000. The N Line and XRT trims are positioned around $30,000, with the fully loaded Limited topping out at about $33,500. The Kona Electric, eligible for EV tax incentives in some markets, is expected to start near $36,000. Hyundai will officially release the 2027 Kona lineup in early spring 2027, with dealer availability rolling out nationwide by March. Early indicators suggest demand will be strong, especially for the tech-heavy trims and EV variants, as buyers shift further toward electrification and modern design. 2027 Hyundai Kona Review

Conclusion

The 2027 Hyundai Kona sets a new standard in the subcompact SUV segment with its cutting-edge design, expansive tech features, versatile powertrains, and a thoughtful blend of efficiency and performance. Whether you’re looking for a stylish urban crossover, a sporty commuter, or a fully electric daily driver, the latest Kona lineup delivers more of everything that matters—with no compromises.

Note: Everything you see in the following article is based on information that was available before the product was even released. Official sources or your local dealership are the best places to get up-to-date information.

Read Also:

• 2027 Hyundai Accent Release Date, Price, MPG
• 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Review, Specs, Configurations
• 2026 Hyundai i20 Release Date, Specs, Dimensions
• 2026 Hyundai i20 Features, Configurations, Interior
• 2026 Hyundai Tucson Price, Specs, Features