The 2023 Kia Stinger occupies a unique niche in the car market. The Stinger has the look of a sports sedan while offering a comfortable and spacious interior that rivals the versatility of an SUV. The Stinger was first introduced in 2018, and since then, it has received praise for both its performance and functionality. The Kia Stinger is a reasonably priced alternative to the European sports sedan market, offering a luxurious interior and driving experience while still coming in at a price point that is both reasonable and competitive.
Overview
Although a still relatively new addition to the market, Kia has announced that 2023 will be the last year for the production of the Stinger. The farewell year for this model features two trim levels: the GT-Line and the GT2. Both trims come with standard rear-wheel drive and optional all-wheel drive.
One of the main differences between the trim levels is seen under the hood. The GT-Line comes with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, resulting in an impressive 300 horsepower. The GT2, on the other hand, cranks up the power a bit with a twin-turbocharged 3.3-liter V-6 engine, resulting in 368 horsepower.
Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters that deliver quick shifting and impressive response time to the driver. Rear-wheel-drive models come with Michelin Pilot Sport summer tires, while the all-wheel-drive option swaps the tires out with an all-season variety. The GT2 features upgraded Brembo brakes to create even quicker stops and better handling.
When it comes to gas mileage, the best fuel economy is found in the GT-Line rear-wheel drive, with EPA ratings of 22 mpg city and 32 mpg highway. Upgrading to the GT-Line all-wheel drive will slightly drop gas mileage to 21 mpg city and 29 mpg highway. The increased power in the V-6 engine of the GT2 results in another reduction in fuel efficiency, to 18 mpg city and 25 mpg highway in the rear-wheel-drive version and 17 mpg city and 24 mpg highway in the all-wheel-drive.
Interior Comfort
One area where the Stinger really shines is interior comfort. This car has enough space for the whole family and enough extra cargo room for luggage and gear. When looking at the vehicle’s dimensions, the Stinger has an overall length of 190.2 inches, a width of 73.6 inches, and a height of 55.1 inches. Overall interior volume comes in at 117.1 cubic feet, with a cargo capacity of 23.3 cubic feet. The long wheelbase (114.4 inches) and hatchback design make for a trunk that is easily accessible and roomy.
Seating
The 2023 Stinger offers 38.3 inches of headroom for the driver and front-seat passenger while still providing 37 inches of headroom for rear-seat passengers. Legroom is also ample, providing 42.6 inches for the driver and front-seat passenger and 36.4 inches for passengers in the back.
In addition to plenty of room for the driver and passengers to ride in comfort, a few additional amenities add to the overall driving experience. Front seats are heated and have either genuine leather or Napa leather trim, depending on trim level. On the GT2 trim, passengers also have heated rear outboard seats and ventilated front seats. Both trims have a 60/40 split-folding rear seat with a center armrest and adjustable rear headrests.
If you’re driving long distances, having appropriate back support is essential for an enjoyable ride. The Stinger has you covered with a 12-way power driver’s seat, including a four-way power lumbar support in the GT-Line. The GT2 has a 16-way power driver’s seat, including a four-way power air-cell lumbar adjustment with added two-way side bolster and cushion thigh extension. Passengers will also enjoy comfortable seating as well, with an optional eight-way power passenger seat including two-way power lumbar support on the GT-Line and a standard 12-way power passenger seat with four-way power lumbar support in the GT2.
Added Touches
You’ll find additional attributes that help lend to a luxurious feel elsewhere in the vehicle. While a tilt and telescopic steering wheel is standard on the GT-Line, the GT2 also includes driver’s memory seat integration. Both trims include a smart key that will allow you to start or turn off the car at the push of a button. Remote start is also included, a feature that comes in handy during cold Rochester winters.
Front and rear door bottle holders, as well as front seat rear pockets, provide ample space for storage while on the go. Glove box illumination comes in handy when searching for items in otherwise dim lighting. An auto-dimming rearview mirror is standard on both trim levels, and the GT2 includes a HomeLink garage door opener on the rearview mirror as well. A leather-wrapped sports design steering wheel and gear shift handle feel smooth to the driver’s touch.
Technology
The 2023 Kia Stinger includes a host of tech features to help you stay connected and stay up-to-date while on the road. The 10.25-inch touch-screen display with navigation and Kia Connect is easy to use and has a quick response time. The screen even displays real-time traffic from SiriusXM Traffic, a useful way to integrate the standard Sirius XM satellite radio. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, as is Bluetooth hands-free technology.
To help you with your listening needs, a nine-speaker audio system is standard on the GT-Line, and an upgraded 15-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system is standard on the GT2 and optional on the GT-Line. A wireless charging pad is standard, and front and rear USB charging ports mean you never have to worry about your phone battery dying.
The Kia Stinger is a unique blend of performance and comfort. The spacious and well-appointed interior makes it a pleasure for the driver and passengers alike when you hit the road. With Kia planning to phase this model out at the end of 2023, this will be your last chance to own this impressive and versatile car. If the Stinger sounds like a vehicle that matches your needs, check out our latest inventory at Tom Kadlec Kia in Rochester, Minnesota, to see what we currently have available.
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Warranties include 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and 5-year/60,000-mile basic. All warranties and roadside assistance are limited. See retailer for warranty details.