I'm sure there's a modern bike out there that checks all of your boxes if you look hard enough. There's plenty of brands offering 27.5" hardtails in XS (or even 2XS) sizes with quality gear. Both from local stores (Trek, Liv...) or online (Canyon...). If you need any hints write me a dm - I'd be glad to help.

All that said, it's not about the bike you ride, it's the fun you have riding it. And you can certainly have fun on an old clunker if that's your thing! :)