2027 Hyundai KonaMotorTrend - MotorTrendFunky-cool exteriorGenerous standard featuresClever interiorNext-gen model soon?No hybrid engineToo expensive?Standout design and a thoughtful driving experience aren't reserved only for high-end cars, and the Hyundai Kona is proof. The Korean automaker's smallest and most affordable SUV showcases interesting styling and a smart cabin.This generation of Kona was introduced for 2024. An all-electric variant has also been available. Rumors suggest a heavily refreshed or fully redesigned Kona could arrive within a year or two. Main rivals in the subcompact SUV segment include the Nissan Kicks, Kia Seltos, and Subaru Crosstrek.What's NewThe 2027 Kona carries over largely unchanged from the 2026 model. Engine stop/start has been removed from the entry-level SE trim. Interior ambient lighting is no longer part of the SEL Premium trim, now reserved for the range-topping Limited trim.What We ThinkFuturistic looks make the Kona stand out, but there's substance behind the style. Hyundai's subcompact SUV has a functional and human-centric cabin with an adult-friendly rear seat, generous cargo hold, and a clever center console layout. A large touchscreen, plentiful physical controls, and useful driver assist tech make daily use easy.AdvertisementAdvertisementDynamic polish is less convincing. The available 1.6-liter turbo is preferable to the lethargic base 2.0-liter, but its response can be surgy. The transmission hesitates to downshift, and fuel economy is disappointing; there's no hybrid, and the EV's status isn't certain.Broken pavement exposes loose body control, and the aggressive exterior promises more athleticism than its soft character delivers. On the flipside, the quiet, supple ride makes the Kona a smooth highway cruiser.Small SUV buyers prioritizing design, technology, and versatility will find plenty to like. Just budget carefully; the base model is more expensive than some rivals, and desirable turbo trims climb into larger-SUV money, undermining an otherwise strong value play.Top-Ranked Competitors:Kia SeltosMazda CX-30Nissan KicksSubaru CrosstrekMotorTrend TestedThe Kona SE and SEL Sport trims are equipped with a 2.0-liter I-4 engine that produces 147 hp and 132 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a CVT automatic, with FWD standard and AWD optional.AdvertisementAdvertisementExpect 0–60-mph acceleration to take between 9.0 and 10.0 seconds with this engine.In SEL Premium and Limited trims, the Kona gains a turbocharged 1.6-liter I-4 engine that makes 190 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque.Output is distributed through an eight-speed automatic transmission, once again with FWD standard and AWD available. In MotorTrend testing, the turbocharged Kona hit 60 mph in 7.7 seconds.MPGs and RangeWith the 2.0-liter engine, fuel economy for the Kona rates at 28/35 mpg city/highway with FWD, 26/29 mpg with AWD. Driving range on a full tank of gas is approximately 380 miles with FWD and 330 miles with AWD.AdvertisementAdvertisementWhen equipped with the turbocharged 1.6-liter engine, the Kona gets 26/32 mpg with FWD and 24/29 mpg with AWD. With a full tank of fuel, this Kona engine provides about 370 miles with FWD and 340 miles with AWD.Does Hyundai Make an Electric Kona?Hyundai has offered an all-electric Kona, but its current status is somewhat unclear. It was put on a sales pause after 2025 so that Hyundai could sell through existing inventory. The Kona EV could return for 2027, but as of now it's not listed on Hyundai's consumer website.Safety Ratings and FeaturesIn its most recent crash safety testing for 2026, the Kona earned IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation, the best possible result. However, in NHTSA procedures, the SUV received four out of a possible five stars in its overall safety evaluation.Standard FeaturesEvery Kona is equipped with front and rear automatic emergency braking, side and rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high-beams.Available FeaturesThe high-end Kona Limited gains front and rear parking sensors and blind-spot view cameras.Cargo Space and Interior RoomThe Kona provides ample space inside its subcompact body, especially in the back seat and cargo area.TechnologyInfotainmentAll 2027 Kona models have a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The SE and SEL Sport models have a 4.2-inch gauge cluster screen. All models have USB-C ports in both rows of seats.Sound SystemAbove the base system, the Kona Limited is equipped with an eight-speaker Bose premium audio setup.Available UpgradesA wireless charging pad is added above the SE trim. The SEL Premium and Limited trims get a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster display. A 360-degree camera and interior ambient lighting are exclusive to the Limited model.ValueStandard FeaturesPricing for the 2027 Kona begins at slightly more than $27,000 in base SE FWD trim. Standard exterior features include 17-inch wheels, LED headlights and taillights, body-color side mirrors and door handles, and a rear spoiler.AdvertisementAdvertisementInside, the Kona SE gets cloth upholstery, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, physical climate control buttons, and a 60/40 split-folding rear seat. Keyless entry with push-button start, a one-touch driver's door window, and height-adjustable cargo floor add convenience.Recommended TrimThe SEL Premium starts at just over $30,000 with FWD and is our pick in the Kona range. It gains the turbocharged engine, which improves drivability. It also gets exterior upgrades such as 19-inch wheels and roof rails.The cabin improves with a 12.3-inch driver's display, leatherette upholstery, power-adjustable driver's seat, heated front seats, wireless charging pad, second-row air vents, and dual-zone climate control.Future Hyundai Kona Coming Soon?This generation of Kona has only been on sale since 2024, but an all-new next-generation model already appears to be in the works. Heavily camouflaged prototypes of a small Hyundai SUV have been spotted.AdvertisementAdvertisementSeeing through the coverings is difficult, but certain shapes and details appear similar to the burly Hyundai Crater concept. If the next-generation Kona takes these rugged cues, it would be a big shift in design and personality for Hyundai's entry-level SUV.
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