- The 2027 Hyundai Kona debuts in Korea with a stealthy Black Exterior.
- New digital skins include Pikachu and the classic Hyundai Pony.
- Pricing starts lower, at $16k, thanks to the omission of standard features.
Hyundai has introduced a number of model year updates for the 2027 Kona in the South Korean market, focused on personalization. Highlights include the introduction of a new “Black Exterior” package, new animated themes for the digital cockpit, and a slightly lower entry price.
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Starting with the newest addition to the lineup, the Kona Black Exterior is offered exclusively in Abyss Black Pearl, paired with matching 18-inch alloy wheels and fully blacked-out exterior trim. The grille, emblems, skid plates, bumper garnish, and side cladding are all finished in black, complemented by body-colored fenders.
Hyundai Kona Black
Buyers can still opt for the standard and N Line body kits, available in both single-tone and two-tone finishes.
Gotta Catch ‘Em All
Inside, Hyundai is adding more personalization options without changing the upholstery or the trim. Instead, the company has introduced new skins for the digital cockpit, available through the BlueLink Store or app.
Owners of the Kona can customize their digital instrument clusters and 12.3-inch infotainment displays with various characters, including famous Pokemon Pikachu and Ditto, and local favorites such as Pororo Fun Train Journey, Tayo Colorful Garage, and Zanmang Loopy. There is also a special theme featuring the Hyundai Pony, the first mass-produced vehicle to come out of South Korea.
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The digital skins became available for select Hyundai models in Korea a few weeks ago. Each one costs 29,900 won ($20) for lifetime use, with the exception of the Pony theme which is offered for free. Still, access to the Hyundai BlueLink Store does require a subscription after the initial free trial period is over.
Carry-Over Powetrains
The powertrain lineup has been carried over, including gasoline, hybrid, and fully electric options. Still, the Kona Electric is not available with the Black Exterior package.
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The base naturally aspirated 2.0-liter engine is good for 147 hp (110 kW / 149 PS), the turbocharged 1.6-liter generates 195 hp (146 kW / 198 PS), and the hybrid 1.6-liter produces a combined 139 hp (104 kW / 141 PS).
The Kona Electric is available in two versions with 133 hp (99 kW / 135 PS) or 201 hp (150 kW / 204 PS) from a single electric motor, sourcing energy from battery packs with capacities of 48.6 kWh and 64.8 kWh, respectively.
Hyundai Kona N Line
Lower Entry Price At A Cost
For the 2027 model year, Hyundai has also restructured the Kona’s pricing and equipment levels in South Korea, bringing the entry price down by 490,000 won ($330) to 23.60 million won ($16,000) for the Kona Modern trim. However, accessibility comes at a cost, as the previously standard artificial leather upholstery, LED interior lights, electrochromic rearview mirror, and rear A/C vents are either optional or reserved for higher trims.
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The Kona Hybrid has become 590,000 won ($400) cheaper through similar tactics, and now starts at 28.96 million won ($19,600). The Kona Electric remains unchanged, starting from 41.52 million won ($28,100).
A sweet spot of the Korean lineup is the new Kona 1.6 Turbo H-Pick trim that comes standard with high-demand features such as the 12.3-inch display with navigation, dual-zone A/C, 18-inch alloy wheels, and rain sensors at 26.47 million won ($17,900). Finally, the Turbo Black Exterior costs 31.37 million won ($21,200), and the flagship N Line is priced at 31.99 million won ($21,600).
