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Kia Stinger

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Kia Stinger: Kia's grand-touring sedan (2017-2023). 365 horsepower 3.3L twin-turbo V6 in GT trim. Modern enthusiast favorit
Photo: Alexander Migl / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0

Kia's grand-touring sedan (2017-2023). 365 horsepower 3.3L twin-turbo V6 in GT trim. Modern enthusiast favorite.

The Kia Stinger is a grand-touring sport sedan produced from 2017 to 2023. The Stinger was Kia first attempt at a genuine performance sport sedan, sharing platform with the Genesis G70 and Hyundai N program engineering. Available with 2.0L turbo four-cylinder or 3.3L twin-turbo V6 (the GT trim), rear-drive standard with AWD optional. The Stinger GT (with the 3.3L twin-turbo V6 making 365 horsepower) was the focused performance variant. Critics praised the chassis dynamics, ride quality (grand-tourer character rather than aggressive sport tuning), and overall refinement. Sales were modest globally; the Stinger was discontinued in 2023. The EV6 GT replaced the Stinger as Kia performance flagship. Used Stinger GTs have appreciated as the model becomes increasingly recognized as an underappreciated grand tourer. On WhipJury, Stinger GT submissions are common, particularly modified examples with tune, exhaust, and exterior modifications.

Stinger variants

Stinger 2.0T. 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder, 255 horsepower.

Stinger GT. 3.3L twin-turbo V6, 365 horsepower. Available AWD.

Frequently asked questions about Kia Stinger

Why was the Stinger discontinued?
Sales never reached projected levels. Kia was selling around 13,000 Stingers per year in North America at peak, far below segment competitors. Combined with the global pivot toward EVs, the Stinger platform was retired. The EV6 GT now serves as the brand performance flagship.
Is the Stinger really that good?
Yes, on chassis and powertrain. Reviews consistently praised the Stinger ride quality, steering feel, and twin-turbo V6 power delivery. Common criticisms were the interior materials (not quite at German competitor level) and the brand image. As a used car today, the Stinger GT represents excellent value.
How much does a Stinger cost?
Used pricing: 2.0T $20,000-$30,000. GT $25,000-$45,000+. Clean low-mile GT examples are at the higher end. The Stinger provides excellent value in the rear-drive sport sedan category.
Is the Stinger reliable?
Generally yes. The 3.3L twin-turbo V6 has been durable. Common issues include occasional infotainment concerns and various age-related items. Maintenance is moderately expensive due to specialty parts; significantly cheaper than European competitors.
Is the Stinger faster than a BMW 340i?
Comparable. The Stinger GT (365 horsepower, twin-turbo V6) competes directly with the BMW 340i (355 horsepower, single-turbo straight-six). Lap times are similar. The Stinger has more refined ride; the BMW has slightly better steering feel. Both are excellent grand tourers.

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