I love this car! looks amazing and it's a blast to drive.
Most cars from KIA are created for the masses. They’re known for being affordable, fuel efficient and well-built for their price point. Kia definitely decided to spice things up with the all new Stinger. When I first saw this car debut at the Detroit auto show, I was elated that Kia would create something so electrifying. They did everything right with the Stinger, having sparing no research expense. Both powertrain options include turbos and provide an abundance of power. Plus, you can pair it with either all-wheel-drive or rear wheel drive if you desire. It’s a true grand touring car - from the way it looks, to how it drives.
Kyle EdwardAWD or RWD like a true GT
It immediately captures your attention with a long rear roof line, lengthy hood and and wrap around rear lights. I really appreciated the aggressive styling the designers came up with, allowing the Stinger to set itself apart in the marketplace. Previously not possible, KIA will be able to capture buyers from other brands with a car that looks as good as this.
The interior doesn’t disappoint either. They were able to carry that sportback design inside as well, with a wide, unobstructed dashboard, unique center air vents and sporty red gauges. The heated and cooled seats were exceedingly comfortable. Our base model didn’t have many tech options added but still felt special and was nicely equipped with features such as laser guided cruise control (with stop and go technology,) blind spot detection and keyless entry with push to start. Once you push that start button, you hear the engine roar to life (sounding pretty good for a four cylinder,) you can imagine little dancing chipmunks telling you to put it in drive.
Because that’s what this car was made for. I was surprised by the responsiveness and agility of the base engine: a 2.0L turbocharged four cylinder, cranking out 255 hp and 260 pound feet of torque at just 1400 RPMs. It gives you quite a bit of grunt off the line. Once I had it up to cruising speed, I was able to see if the Stinger lived up to my handling expectations. With its low center of gravity and long wheel base my anticipations were very high. I’m happy to report after driving it along some of my favorite roads, I am very satisfied with the driving dynamics of the Stinger. The first thing I noticed was how responsive the steering is. It works very well with the chassis, giving the driver appropriate road feel and feedback. The ride was also very comfortable and with a quick switch to sport mode, you’re ready to carve canyon roads in the mountains and have a blast.
If you’re looking for a unique, exciting vehicle to drive, I would take a very close look at the Stinger - with a starting price of around $33,000, it’s also a great buy. Similar vehicles in this category, such as the Audi A5 Sportback, cost over $10,000 more. If you want to do 0 to 60 miles an hour in a class-leading 4.7 seconds, you can option for the GT model. The starting price is just over $38,000, still less than a base A5 Sportback.
Overall Rating: 9.5
The Facts:
Base Price: $35,000
Engine: 2.0L Twin Scroll Turbo 4-Cyl
Horsepower: 255 @ 6200 rpm
Torque: 260 @ 1400 – 4000 rpm
Transmission: 8-speed automatic with manual shifting mode
Curb Weight: 3,792 lb
0-60: 6.1 sec
MPG: 21/29
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Comments (4)
Brilliant article Kyle (as always)! And that photography- sensational! 5 stars though? I know the Stinger's good, but perfect? Skeptical...
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