Key Features of the 2027 Hyundai KONA

2.0L MPI and 1.6L Turbo-GDI Engine Choices

The 2027 Hyundai KONA gives shoppers two distinct engine paths. SE and SEL Sport models use the Nu PE Engine Family 2.0L MPI Atkinson DOHC 16-valve Inline 4-cylinder engine, with 1,999 cc of displacement, Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing, 147 horsepower at 6200 rpm, and 132 lb.-ft. of torque at 4500 rpm. This engine is paired with an Intelligent Variable Transmission and includes Shift-by-Cable w/ SHIFTRONIC® manual shift mode, creating a smooth and approachable driving character. SEL Premium and Limited models step up to the Gamma II Engine Family 1.6L Turbo-GDI DOHC 16-valve Inline 4-cylinder engine, with 1,598 cc of displacement, 190 horsepower at 6000 rpm, and 195 lb.-ft. of torque from 1700 to 4500 rpm. This turbocharged powertrain uses an 8-speed Automatic Torque Converter transmission, Shift-by-wire, and Paddle Shifters. For shoppers who want responsive passing power and a more energetic feel, the turbo engine is especially compelling. Both engines use Regular Unleaded fuel, which supports everyday ownership convenience.

AWD, Active On-Demand

FWD is standard across the KONA lineup, but AWD, Active On-Demand, is available for shoppers who want additional confidence. The system adds an AWD-specific Drive Mode Select setup with Normal, Sport, and Snow modes, while FWD models include Normal and Sport. The AWD layout also changes the rear suspension from a Coupled Torsion Beam Axle to a Multi-link setup, which can contribute to a more composed feel over varied road surfaces. Ground clearance is another meaningful distinction: FWD models offer 6.7 inches with 17-inch wheels and 6.9 inches with 18-inch and 19-inch wheels, while AWD models provide 8.1 inches with 17-inch and 18-inch wheels and 8.3 inches with 19-inch wheels. That added clearance can be helpful for uneven driveways, gravel paths, and rougher local routes. With a tight 34.8-foot turning diameter and Column-mounted, motor-driven power steering, the KONA remains easy to maneuver even when equipped for extra traction.

12.3-Inch Touchscreen Audio

Every 2027 KONA trim includes a 12.3-Inch Touchscreen Audio system with ccNC Lite, AM/FM/SiriusXM®/HD Radio® System, 6 speakers, and a 1920 x 720 resolution. That is an impressive standard technology foundation for a small SUV, especially because Hyundai also includes wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay Compatibility across the lineup. The cabin is designed for modern device use with front dual 3-amp USB-C outlets, including one Power/Data and one Power outlet, plus rear dual 3-amp USB-C outlets for second-row passengers. Wireless Device Charging for supported devices is included on SEL Sport, SEL Premium, and Limited. The standard Rear View Monitor with parking guidance helps simplify backing into spaces, while Limited adds Surround View Monitor for a more complete view around the vehicle. Bluelink® Connected Car System and OTA Software Updates are also standard, allowing the KONA to support connected convenience throughout ownership. For online shoppers comparing cabin technology, this screen-centered setup makes the KONA feel current, practical, and easy to use.

Hyundai SmartSense Safety Technologies

The 2027 Hyundai KONA includes a broad set of active and passive safety features. Standard active safety equipment includes Anti-lock Braking System with 4-wheel disc brakes, Electronic Stability Control with Traction Control and Brake Assist, Vehicle Stability Management, and Tire Pressure Monitoring System with Individual Tire Indicator. Driver-assist technologies include Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance Warning, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist w/ Pedestrian/Cyclist/JT/DO Detection, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist, Intelligent Speed Limit Assist, Driver Attention Warning, High Beam Assist, Rear Occupant Alert, and Safe Exit Warning. Limited models add Parking Distance Warning - Forward/Side/Reverse with Contour Warning, which is especially useful in tight parking spaces. The KONA also includes advanced restraint systems such as front advanced airbags, driver and front passenger side-impact airbags, side air curtains with rollover sensors, front and rear seatbelt reminder, rear LATCH Lower Anchors and Upper Tether Anchors, and rear child safety locks. Together, these systems create a reassuring support network for daily driving.

Flexible Interior and Cargo Space

The KONA’s cabin is one of its biggest strengths because it maximizes space in a compact footprint. Hyundai lists 39.9 inches of front headroom, 38.3 inches of rear headroom, 41.7 inches of front legroom, and 38.2 inches of rear legroom. That makes the second row useful for passengers rather than simply occasional seating. Cargo capacity measures 25.5 cubic feet with the rear seats up and expands to 63.7 cubic feet when the 60/40 Split flat rear seatback is folded down. A dual-level cargo floor is standard, helping owners configure the cargo area for taller items or a flatter loading surface. Seating content varies by trim, beginning with cloth seating and adding H-Tex® Trimmed Seats on SEL Premium and Limited. Heated front seats are included from SEL Sport upward, while Limited adds ventilated front seats, a power tilt-and-slide sunroof with sunshade, ambient lighting with user-selectable color, Hands-free Smart Liftgate w/ Auto Open, and Bose premium audio with external amp and 8 speakers. It is a cabin built to make everyday driving feel easier.