Aug 14, 2026

The 2027 Hyundai Kona is the right choice for rural Ohio families who need a fuel-efficient, practical crossover without overpaying. Starting at $25,500 for the SE Automatic, the lineup spans eight trims — from entry-level front-wheel drive to the all-wheel drive Limited Automatic AWD at $34,035. The SE Automatic delivers 31 mpg combined, the best fuel economy in the range, while every trim seats five and carries about 25.5 cu ft of cargo. For Beaver Township families balancing farm errands and family outings, the Kona delivers genuine value.

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How Well Does the 2027 Hyundai Kona Serve Beaver Township Families and Outdoor Enthusiasts?

The 2027 Hyundai Kona fits the practical demands of rural Ohio life better than most small crossovers in its class. Five-passenger seating, a compact footprint that handles narrow country roads, and fuel economy reaching 31 mpg combined on the SE Automatic and SE Automatic AWD make it a sensible daily driver for families who split time between farm work, community gatherings, and weekend fishing trips.

The lineup offers two distinct powertrain paths. The SE Automatic and SE Automatic AWD use a naturally aspirated 2L Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder producing 147 hp and 132 lb-ft of torque, paired with Hyundai’s SHIFTRONIC® continuously variable transmission. The SE Automatic is front-wheel drive; the SE Automatic AWD adds all-wheel drive for added confidence on gravel lanes and wet terrain. The remaining six trims — Limited Automatic, Limited Automatic AWD, SEL Premium Automatic, SEL Premium Automatic AWD, SEL Sport AWD, and SEL Sport Automatic — carry the turbocharged 1.6L Gamma GDI engine rated at 190 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque, matched to an 8-speed automatic.

FeatureLimited AutomaticLimited Automatic AWDSE AutomaticSE Automatic AWDSEL Premium AutomaticSEL Premium Automatic AWDSEL Sport AWDSEL Sport Automatic
Engine1.6L1.6L2L2L1.6L1.6L2L2L
Horsepower190 hp190 hp147 hp147 hp190 hp190 hp147 hp147 hp
Torque195 lb-ft195 lb-ft132 lb-ft132 lb-ft195 lb-ft195 lb-ft132 lb-ft132 lb-ft
Transmissionautomatic 8-speedautomatic 8-speedSHIFTRONIC®SHIFTRONIC®automatic 8-speedautomatic 8-speedSHIFTRONIC®SHIFTRONIC®
DrivetrainFront-wheel driveAll-wheel driveFront-wheel driveAll-wheel driveFront-wheel driveAll-wheel driveAll-wheel driveFront-wheel drive

Shoppers who have questions about which trim fits their budget and lifestyle can find answers on Herrnstein Hyundai’s frequently asked questions page. Those open to a pre-owned option can also browse our current used vehicle inventory to see what certified and pre-owned Kona models are available.

Rugged and Refined: 2027 Hyundai Kona’s Exterior Design Tailored for Rural Terrain

The 2027 Kona wears a compact SUV body that measures 171.3 in long, 71.9 in wide, and varies in height from 62.2 in on the SE Automatic to 63.6 in on the Limited Automatic AWD — a profile that fits comfortably on narrow rural roads and in tight parking spots outside small-town businesses. The 104.7 in wheelbase keeps the turning circle manageable at 417.7 in curb-to-curb, which matters when navigating farm driveways or reversing in limited space.

The body carries painted front and rear bumpers, a roof spoiler, and standard black roof rails. The Limited Automatic and Limited Automatic AWD come with chrome and bright trim accents along the body sides, adding a degree of visual polish without sacrificing the SUV’s upright, purposeful stance. All trims ride on alloy wheels — 17 in units on the SE Automatic and SE Automatic AWD, stepping up to 19 in alloys on the turbocharged trims.

Color options span a range that suits both understated and expressive tastes: Cyber Gray Metallic, Ultimate Red Metallic, Soultronic Orange Pearl, and Neoteric Yellow are available across the lineup. The pearl and metallic finishes hold up well against the elements, which is relevant for vehicles that regularly travel unpaved approaches.

Ground clearance ranges from 6.7 in on the SE Automatic to 8.3 in on the Limited Automatic AWD — the AWD trims sit notably higher, giving them a modest advantage on uneven terrain. Buyers ready to explore available 2027 Kona models in stock can compare exterior configurations side by side, and those replacing an existing vehicle can get started by checking what their current vehicle is worth as a trade-in.

Performance and Capability of the 2027 Hyundai Kona Trims for Rural Ohio Roads

Two different powertrains define the Kona lineup, and choosing between them comes down to whether you prioritize fuel economy or outright responsiveness. The naturally aspirated 2L Atkinson engine in the SE Automatic and SE Automatic AWD produces 147 hp and 132 lb-ft of torque — adequate for flat-to-rolling terrain but less urgent on steeper grades. The turbocharged 1.6L Gamma GDI in the Limited, SEL Premium, and SEL Sport trims delivers 190 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque available from 1,700 rpm, which translates to noticeably quicker response when merging onto a state route or climbing a gravel hill loaded with supplies.

The 8-speed automatic transmission on the turbocharged trims shifts cleanly and keeps the engine in its torque band efficiently. The SHIFTRONIC® CVT on the 2L trims is calibrated with simulated stepped ratios, reducing the droning sensation common to traditional CVTs. Both transmissions include a manual-mode function for drivers who want more direct control.

AWD variants — the Limited Automatic AWD, SE Automatic AWD, SEL Premium Automatic AWD, and SEL Sport AWD — use a full-time system with automatic mode and manual selection, plus torque vectoring capability. The rear suspension on AWD trims upgrades to a fully independent multi-link setup, compared to the semi-independent torsion beam on front-wheel drive variants. That difference is tangible on rutted or uneven surfaces.

All trims include Downhill Brake Control (DBC) and Traction Control (TCS), alongside electronic stability control. Four-wheel disc brakes with two ventilated front rotors provide consistent stopping performance. The front suspension is a MacPherson strut design with coil springs across the entire range.

Owners who want to personalize their Kona for rural use — roof racks, hitch accessories, or all-weather protection — can explore genuine Hyundai parts and accessories to find options designed specifically for this model.

The fuel economy numbers break down as follows across the eight trims:

FeatureLimited AutomaticLimited Automatic AWDSE AutomaticSE Automatic AWDSEL Premium AutomaticSEL Premium Automatic AWDSEL Sport AWDSEL Sport Automatic
MPG26 city / 31 hwy / 28 combined25 city / 28 hwy / 26 combined29 city / 34 hwy / 31 combined27 city / 29 hwy / 28 combined26 city / 31 hwy / 28 combined25 city / 28 hwy / 26 combined26 city / 29 hwy / 27 combined28 city / 35 hwy / 31 combined

The SE Automatic and SEL Sport Automatic tie for the best combined rating at 31 mpg combined, with the SE Automatic reaching 34 mpg highway and the SEL Sport Automatic hitting 35 mpg highway — the highest highway figure in the lineup. On a 13.2 gal tank (turbocharged trims) or 12.4 gal tank (2L trims), a single fill stretches to roughly 343–384 miles of range depending on the trim, which covers a generous span of rural driving between fuel stops.

Comfort and Space Inside the 2027 Hyundai Kona Family Adventures

Every 2027 Kona seats five in a 2+3 configuration, and the interior dimensions hold up well for a compact crossover. Front headroom measures 38.3 in on turbocharged trims and 39.9 in on 2L variants — the slightly taller roofline on those trims benefits taller drivers. Rear headroom is 38.3 in across the board. Front legroom is 41.7 in and rear legroom is 38.2 in, which comfortably accommodates adults on drives to community events or weekend outings. Shoulder room is 56.8 in up front and 55.2 in in the second row, leaving reasonable space for three passengers across the rear bench.

Cargo capacity is about 25.5 cu ft with all seats in place — enough for a week’s worth of groceries, a couple of toolboxes, or a full set of fishing gear. Fold the rear seats in their asymmetrical split configuration and the load floor opens to about 64 cu ft, which handles larger hauls like farm supplies or camping equipment. Cargo hooks are standard, and the Limited Automatic and Limited Automatic AWD add a rigid cargo cover as standard equipment.

Interior quality steps up noticeably as trims ascend. The SE Automatic and SE Automatic AWD use cloth upholstery in black or gray, with a manual driver’s seat and a plastic-wrapped steering wheel. The SEL Premium Automatic, SEL Premium Automatic AWD, Limited Automatic, and Limited Automatic AWD swap in H-Tex leatherette seating in black or gray, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat with 5-way electric adjustment including electric lumbar. Both front seats are heated on these trims, and illuminated vanity mirrors are included.

Climate control also varies: the 2L trims use a manual air conditioning system, while the turbocharged trims step up to dual-zone automatic climate control. All trims include front and rear cup holders, a full floor console, and a partial overhead console for additional storage.

Stop by and see the interior in person — our showroom hours and directions are easy to find if you want to sit in the Kona before deciding.

User-Friendly Tech Features in the 2027 Hyundai Kona That Enhance Daily Life

A consistent tech foundation runs across every 2027 Kona trim, starting with a 12.3 in fixed-orientation center touchscreen and a 4.2 in TFT instrument cluster display. The touchscreen supports wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto as standard — both included with no subscription expiration — so drivers stay connected without managing cables. Bluetooth is standard across all trims, as are steering-wheel-mounted audio controls and AM/FM/digital radio with satellite radio available on a 3-month trial.

USB connectivity includes 2 front USB charging ports and 2 rear USB charging ports on every trim, plus a 12V front power outlet. The Limited Automatic and Limited Automatic AWD add a wireless charging pad and an additional front USB data connection, removing the need to plug in a phone at all.

Hyundai’s BlueLink connected services platform is standard on all trims and includes remote lock/unlock, remote start, vehicle diagnostics, geo-fencing, speed alerts, location sharing, theft notification, and find-my-car functionality. Remote HVAC control — pre-conditioning the cabin before you get in — is included for 36 months. The system connects via an in-vehicle SIM, so it operates independently of a paired phone. Over-the-air software updates are available on turbocharged trims, allowing the vehicle to receive improvements without a dealership visit.

The Limited Automatic and Limited Automatic AWD add a Surround View Monitor — a 360-degree camera system that stitches together a bird’s-eye view of the vehicle’s surroundings. This feature proves genuinely useful when maneuvering near equipment, fences, or tight parking situations. The remaining trims include a rearview camera with Rear View Monitor guidance overlays as standard.

Traffic sign recognition and a reconfigurable instrument cluster are standard on turbocharged trims, helping drivers stay aware of posted speeds without taking their eyes off the road.

Safety Innovations in the 2027 Hyundai Kona Built for Peace of Mind on Roads

The 2027 Kona carries a strong safety foundation on every trim. Six airbags are standard across the lineup — dual front airbags, front side airbags, and front-to-rear side curtain airbags — along with a roof airbag. Front seat belts include pre-tensioners and height adjusters; the rear center position uses a 3-point belt. All trims include LATCH child seat anchors, and front and rear head restraints are height-adjustable.

Active safety systems are standard on all trims and include automatic emergency braking, Blind Spot Collision Warning (BCW), Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning (RCCW) via radar, and front cross-traffic collision avoidance using a combined radar and camera system. Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability is included on all trims, maintaining a set following distance and bringing the vehicle to a complete stop in traffic without driver intervention. Lane Keeping Assist is standard on 2L trims and on the turbocharged variants alike, applying gentle steering correction when the vehicle begins to drift.

The Limited Automatic and Limited Automatic AWD add Parking Distance Warning-Reverse sensors and the Surround View Monitor, giving the driver a comprehensive picture of obstacles during low-speed maneuvering — a practical benefit when backing near farm equipment or navigating a crowded parking area.

Braking hardware is four-wheel disc with two ventilated front rotors, ABS, brake assist, and an electronic parking brake with auto-hold. Hill-hold control prevents rollback on inclines. Downhill Brake Control (DBC) manages speed automatically on descents, which is useful on the rolling terrain common to this part of Ohio.

The Kona’s Level 2 partial automation capability — combining adaptive cruise with lane keeping — reduces driver fatigue on longer highway stretches.

Breaking Down 2027 Hyundai Kona Pricing and Trims for Buyers

The 2027 Kona lineup spans a $8,535 range from the most affordable trim to the most expensive, giving buyers meaningful choices at each budget level. All prices listed are base MSRP before the $1,650 destination charge.

FeatureLimited AutomaticLimited Automatic AWDSE AutomaticSE Automatic AWDSEL Premium AutomaticSEL Premium Automatic AWDSEL Sport AWDSEL Sport Automatic
Base MSRP$32,535$34,035$25,500$27,000$28,425$29,925$28,325$26,825

The SE Automatic at $25,500 is the entry point and delivers the most fuel-efficient powertrain in the range — 29 city / 34 hwy / 31 combined mpg — making it the strongest choice for buyers whose priority is minimizing operating costs. Adding AWD costs $1,500 on the SE tier, bringing the SE Automatic AWD to $27,000.

The SEL Sport Automatic at $26,825 and SEL Sport AWD at $28,325 occupy the middle of the range and use the 2L Atkinson engine, offering the best highway fuel economy in the lineup at 35 mpg highway for the FWD variant. The SEL Premium Automatic at $28,425 and SEL Premium Automatic AWD at $29,925 step up to the turbocharged 1.6L with 190 hp, adding power-adjustable heated front seats, wireless charging, and dual-zone automatic climate control.

The Limited Automatic at $32,535 and Limited Automatic AWD at $34,035 represent the fully equipped tier, adding a Bose® 8-speaker audio system, the Surround View Monitor, hands-free liftgate, and electric power-fold hatch, on top of everything in the SEL Premium trims.

Browse our new Hyundai inventory to check current availability on any of these trims. When you’re ready to move forward, you can submit a credit application online to get the purchase process started before your visit.

Warranty, Maintenance, and Service Options for 2027 Hyundai Kona Owners

Hyundai backs the 2027 Kona with one of the most comprehensive warranty packages in the small SUV segment. The basic vehicle warranty runs 5 years / 60,000 miles, the powertrain warranty extends to 10 years / 100,000 miles, and anti-corrosion coverage is provided for 6 years. Paint protection is covered for 3 years / 36,000 miles. Roadside assistance is included for 5 years with unlimited mileage, meaning a flat tire or dead battery on a rural road is covered at no additional cost throughout the warranty period.

Hyundai roadside assistance provides manufacturer-backed service quality, connecting owners directly to authorized support rather than a third-party network. For rural drivers who may be miles from the nearest town, that unlimited-mileage coverage is a meaningful benefit.

Owners can schedule a service appointment online at Herrnstein Hyundai to keep maintenance on track. Current service and parts specials are posted regularly and can reduce the cost of routine maintenance. Buyers interested in a Hyundai Certified Pre-Owned vehicle with its own warranty backing can view our certified pre-owned inventory for available options.

The Kona’s turbocharged trims accept regular 87-octane fuel, keeping fuel costs predictable. The 2L trims also run on regular unleaded, with a 12.4 gal tank and the 1.6L trims carrying 13.2 gal.

Awards, Expert Reviews, and Recognition Highlighting the 2027 Hyundai Kona’s Strengths

The Kona generation underpinning the 2027 model has earned strong third-party safety recognition from both IIHS and NHTSA. The IIHS awarded the Kona a Top Safety Pick designation, with Good ratings in moderate overlap front, small overlap front driver-side, and side impact tests. Headlights, LATCH ease of use, and seat belt reminder systems all received Acceptable ratings. The front crash prevention system earned an Advanced rating in the vehicle-to-pedestrian daytime test — a meaningful result for a vehicle that regularly operates near pedestrians in community settings.

NHTSA testing produced a 4-star overall safety rating, with a 5-star side impact score and a 4-star frontal crash rating. Rollover resistance also earned a 4-star result.

These ratings reflect testing on the current Kona platform and provide third-party validation of the structural and active safety systems described throughout this article. For buyers who weigh crash test performance heavily — particularly families transporting children or older passengers — the Kona’s results place it in competitive standing within the small SUV segment against rivals like the Toyota C-HR, Honda HR-V, and Mazda CX-30.

Dimensions & Capacity

Capacity and dimensions by trim

FeatureLimited AutomaticLimited Automatic AWDSE AutomaticSE Automatic AWDSEL Premium AutomaticSEL Premium Automatic AWDSEL Sport AWDSEL Sport Automatic
Curb weight3,318 lbs3,505 lbs3,005 lbs3,203 lbs3,267 lbs3,483 lbs3,241 lbs3,053 lbs
Payload959 lbs948 lbs1,085 lbs1,074 lbs1,010 lbs970 lbs1,036 lbs1,037 lbs

Standard across all trims:

FeatureIncluded
Seating5
Cargo25.5 cu ft

2027 Hyundai Kona Buyer Questions Answered

Q: Which 2027 Kona trim offers the best fuel economy for long drives across rural Ohio?

The SEL Sport Automatic delivers the best highway fuel economy in the lineup at 35 mpg highway and 31 mpg combined, using the 2L Atkinson-cycle engine with front-wheel drive. The SE Automatic matches the 31 mpg combined figure with a 34 mpg highway rating. Both are strong choices for drivers covering significant distances on state routes between farms, towns, and community centers. If AWD is a priority, the SE Automatic AWD returns 28 mpg combined — still competitive for an all-wheel drive crossover in this class.

Q: Is the 2027 Kona’s cargo space adequate for hauling farm supplies or fishing gear?

Yes. The Kona carries about 25.5 cu ft of cargo behind the rear seats — enough for a full load of groceries, a fishing cooler and tackle bags, or a set of hand tools. Folding the rear seats expands the floor to about 64 cu ft, which handles larger items like feed bags, camping gear, or flat-pack materials. Cargo hooks are standard, and a rigid cargo cover is included on the Limited Automatic and Limited Automatic AWD to keep the load area concealed.

Q: What is the difference between the SE Automatic and the SEL Premium Automatic?

The gap is substantial. The SE Automatic at $25,500 uses the 2L engine with 147 hp, cloth seats, a manual driver’s seat, and manual air conditioning. The SEL Premium Automatic at $28,425 steps up to the turbocharged 1.6L with 190 hp, H-Tex leatherette seating, a 5-way power-adjustable heated driver’s seat, heated passenger seat, wireless charging, dual-zone automatic climate control, and over-the-air update capability. The $2,925 difference buys a meaningfully different interior experience and a more responsive powertrain.

Q: Does the 2027 Kona have AWD, and which trims offer it?

Four of the eight trims are available with all-wheel drive: the Limited Automatic AWD, SE Automatic AWD, SEL Premium Automatic AWD, and SEL Sport AWD. AWD trims also feature an independent rear multi-link suspension in place of the torsion beam used on front-wheel drive variants, which improves ride quality and handling on uneven terrain. Ground clearance on AWD trims ranges from 8.1 in to 8.3 in, compared to 6.7 in to 6.9 in on FWD trims.

Q: How do I get started purchasing a 2027 Kona at Herrnstein Hyundai?

Herrnstein Hyundai is located at 2827 River Rd, Chillicothe, OH 45601. You can reach the sales team directly at (740) 779-6555 to check trim availability, ask about current incentives, or set up a test drive. The dealership serves buyers from Beaver Township and the surrounding communities, with staff familiar with the rural driving conditions and practical needs of this region.


© 2026 Herrnstein Hyundai. All rights reserved.

Vehicle specification data © JATO Dynamics Limited.