2027 Hyundai Kona Release Date, Price & Specs USA – The 2027 Hyundai Kona arrives in the United States as a largely carryover model with strong value, efficient powertrains, and competitive pricing that keeps most trims under $30,000 before destination. While Hyundai prepares an all-new third-generation Kona for a later reveal, the current 2027 gas-powered Kona and returning Kona Electric offer practical subcompact SUV options for American buyers right now.
2027 Hyundai Kona Release Date in the USA
The 2027 Hyundai Kona is already reaching U.S. dealers. Pricing and specifications for the gas-powered models were confirmed in early September 2026, and vehicles are in production and available at dealerships. This model year carries over the second-generation design introduced for 2024 with only minor equipment changes.
The Kona Electric skipped the 2026 model year due to existing inventory of 2025 units. Production resumed for the 2027 model year, bringing the electric version back to the U.S. market.
An all-new third-generation Kona (internally referred to as SX3) is under development. Spy photos and reports indicate a more angular, boxier design inspired by the Hyundai Crater concept, a revised platform, and expanded powertrain options including hybrids. Global launch targets point to late 2026 or early 2027, with U.S. arrival possibly in the second half of 2027 as a 2028 model year vehicle. The current 2027 Kona serves as a bridge model.
2027 Hyundai Kona Price in the USA
Hyundai kept base MSRPs essentially unchanged from 2026. A $50 increase in destination charges brings the fee to $1,650. Almost every trim stays under $30,000 before destination and options.
Approximate 2027 MSRP pricing (before destination and options):
- SE FWD: $25,500
- SEL Sport FWD: $26,825
- SEL Premium FWD: $28,425
- Limited FWD: $32,535
All-wheel drive (HTRAC) adds $1,500 on every trim. The top AWD Limited reaches around $34,035 MSRP. Delivered prices (including destination) typically start near $27,150 for the SE FWD and climb to the mid-$35,000s for loaded AWD Limited models, depending on the source and exact configuration.
These figures position the Kona as one of the more affordable subcompact SUVs available in the U.S., competing with models like the Kia Seltos, Subaru Crosstrek, and Volkswagen Taos.
2027 Hyundai Kona Specs and Powertrains
The 2027 Kona offers two gasoline engines and a returning electric option.
Gasoline models:
- SE and SEL Sport: 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder producing 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Front-wheel drive is standard; all-wheel drive is optional.
- SEL Premium and Limited: 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 190 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, matched to an eight-speed automatic transmission. FWD standard, AWD available.
Fuel economy (EPA estimates):
- 2.0-liter FWD: approximately 28 city / 35 highway / 31 combined mpg
- 2.0-liter AWD: lower figures around 26/29 mpg
- 1.6-liter turbo FWD: roughly 26/32 mpg
- Turbo AWD: around 24/29 mpg
Dimensions and practicality (carryover):
- Wheelbase: 104.7 inches
- Length: 171.3 inches
- Cargo space: 25.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to about 63.7 cubic feet with seats folded
- Seating for five with competitive rear legroom
Kona Electric (2027 return): Hyundai is bringing back the electric Kona primarily in base SE form with the smaller 48.6-kWh battery pack. It delivers 133 horsepower, front-wheel drive, and an EPA-estimated range of about 200 miles. Higher-output and longer-range versions from prior years are not expected in the same broad lineup for 2027. Exact U.S. pricing for the returning Electric has not been fully detailed in all sources but previously positioned it as an accessible entry-level EV.
Standard safety technology across the gas lineup includes Hyundai SmartSense features such as automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims add larger wheels, upgraded materials, and additional convenience items. The SE loses Idle Stop and Go for 2027, and ambient lighting moves exclusively to the Limited trim.
What’s New for the 2027 Hyundai Kona?
Changes are minimal. Hyundai describes the 2027 gas-powered Kona as a carryover model. Key updates include the deletion of Idle Stop and Go on the base SE (aligned with evolving U.S. regulations) and the restriction of ambient lighting to the Limited trim only. Pricing stability and the return of the Kona Electric represent the most notable news for U.S. buyers.
Looking Ahead: Next-Generation Hyundai Kona
While the 2027 model maintains the current design and mechanical package, development of the third-generation Kona continues. Reports suggest a longer wheelbase, more upright SUV proportions, Hyundai’s newer Pleos Connect infotainment system, and a broader range of powertrains that may emphasize hybrids. U.S. availability is expected later than some global markets, likely as a 2028 model. The current Kona remains a practical, well-equipped choice until the redesign arrives.
For U.S. shoppers seeking an affordable, feature-rich subcompact SUV with available all-wheel drive and strong warranty coverage (Hyundai’s standard 5-year/60,000-mile basic and 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranties), the 2027 Kona delivers solid everyday value. Check local Hyundai dealers for current inventory, exact pricing including destination and incentives, and availability of both gas and electric versions.