The Kia Stinger has been around for a while now. Previously, its potent turbo V6 was always necessary if you wanted good looks and performance. While the Stinger could be had with four-cylinder power and lower price point, that version always lacked the excitement when you hit the gas.
However, this year the Stinger touts a new engine under the hood and it really makes you think twice about whether you need to spend extra on the turbo V6. The new 2.5L turbo-four packs a healthy 300 hp punch – a big jump from previous four-cylinder versions.
The engine plays nicely during the normal commute, working seamlessly with an eight-speed automatic transmission that makes for an efficient cruiser. On the other hand, simply dial the switch to ‘sport’ and Stinger GT-Line snarls as the transmission holds out for maximum performance.
The Stinger’s standard RWD layout makes for a sedan that relishes curvy roads and its handling limits are higher than normal sedans on the market.
The Kia Stinger is really in its own class when it comes to style. No staid or boring four-door sedan here. The Stinger has curves, plus a lower roofline than most other small to mid-size sedans. It shares more style with a sleek coupe because of its pronounced sloping body.
For 2022, the Stinger sports a new face with modern LED lighting up front and a slightly changed grill design. The racy new design and 18-inch wheels set the Stinger apart from other sedans. The rear hatchback adds to that coupe style, and the large quad exhaust tips give strong hints of a performance machine.
Hop inside and the Kia Stinger gives off a premium look and feel. Leather and soft touch materials are standard even in this entry-level version of the Stinger.
However, I do feel the seats could have bit more padding for those in the back seat. You will also notice that sleek styling lowers the headroom compared to normal mid-size sedans.
The big rear hatch is a boon for cargo space with extra room for larger items. A larger 10.25-inch screen and NAV is standard for 2022 models. The car I tested came with the optional Harman-Kardon premium sound system that provides a good listening experience.
Cost: $36,090; as tested $39,715
MPG: 22 MPG City; and 32 MPG Highway. I managed 26.9 MPG in 317 miles of mixed driving.
Options: $2,300 sun and sound package; $125 cargo mat; $155 carpeted floor mats; $1,045 inland freight and handling.
Safety: Blind spot collision avoidance assist with pedestrian detection; rear cross traffic collision-avoidance assist; forward collision avoidance-assist, cyclist & junction turning; vehicle stability management; safe exit assist with power child lock; NAV smart cruise with stop-go; rear parking collision avoidance; highway drive assist; leading vehicle departure alert; rear occupant alert.
Things to know: The refreshed Kia Stinger GT-Line is a premium car that mixes style and sport in a useful five-door package. A new base engine makes it a tempting value under $40,000.
Pros:
- Impressive interior with high-quality materials
- Looks that standout in a usually conservative mid-size sedan class
- Big boost in power for the entry-level version with 300 hp turbo charged engine
Cons:
- Sleek style leads to less headroom for back seat passengers
- Rear vision out the back window suffers from low roofline
- Some may feel the seats need softer padding
