Kia is best known for creating affordable small to midsize cars that appeal to young drivers who want a cute vehicle for getting from point A to point B. While the South Korean automaker caters well to this niche, its range offers something for everybody. If you’re considering owning a Kia for the first time, the 2023 Kia Stinger may be the vehicle to win you over. Let’s take a closer look at the Kia that breaks the mold.
Kia Stinger Trim Levels
Image via kia.com
For 2023, Kia has dropped the GT1 trim, so there are now two options: the GT-Line and the GT2. It’s a simple strategy that makes it easy for you. If you’re on a budget, the entry-level GT-Line trim is the one for you. If you crave the power of a V-6 engine, opt for the GT2. There are a few more differences between the trim levels, but the motor will likely be the deciding factor for most consumers.
The GT2 can handle all that power under the hood, with adaptive suspension and 19-inch alloy wheels, an inch larger than the GT-Line’s, keeping the ride smooth. The upgraded 720-watt Harman Kardon surround-sound system, power-adjustable steering column, and more adjustable front seats, which gain heating and ventilation, also help you travel in style. The GT2 also features advanced safety technology, including a head-up display and a 360-degree camera system. The powered sunroof, optional in the GT-Line, becomes standard on the GT2.
Quality Engine Options
Unlike many base model motors, the GT-Line’s engine is no lightweight. This turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder is a capable sports motor, generating 300 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque. However, many motorists wouldn’t contemplate getting a sports sedan and settling for anything but the gutsiest motor on offer. If that’s true of you, the GT2’s twin-turbocharged 3.3-liter V-6 should have you salivating. This beast of an engine makes its presence felt, generating 368 hp and 376 lb-ft of torque.
Front-, rear-, and all-wheel-drive layouts are available with both motors. Limited-slip differential on the rear-wheel drive and torque vectoring on the all-wheel drive keeps the ride stable, even when you’re cornering at speed.
Luxurious Interior of the 2023 Kia Stinger
No matter what trim you choose, the Stinger’s interior should make you feel like a VIP. From the perforated leather-wrapped steering wheel to the sturdy aluminum pedals, it feels like a special vehicle. The upholstery is leather trimmed, although the Nappa version in the GT2 is a little softer. The 12-way power driver’s seat in the GT-Line is more adjustable than in most top-trim vehicles, although the GT2 trim has a 16-way chair. Both have lumbar support, but the two-way side bolsters and cushion thigh extension in the GT2 reward you if you’re willing to spend a little extra.
The driver and front passenger enjoy space to spread out, but the Stinger’s sloping roofline does impact the rear headroom a little. We expect that in a sports car, and most motorists will willingly make the compromise. After all, you can best enjoy it with a special someone by your side rather than with a car full of people on your daily commute.
Top Infotainment and Safety Technology on Board
The large 10.25-inch touch-screen display set on top of the dashboard is an instant reminder that the Stinger is a modern motorcar. This infotainment system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, navigation, Bluetooth, and satellite radio. It also includes the brand’s own Kia Connect, giving you access to remote features such as Find My Car, remote locking and unlocking, and climate control. Wireless charging and USB ports in the front and back ensure you’ll never run out of battery power on a road trip.
While it looks like a rebellious vehicle, the Stinger puts safety first. The list of standard driver assistance features is impressive. Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic collision avoidance, lane-following and lane-keeping assistance, and navigation-based adaptive cruise control are all on hand to help you out. Automatic high beams, rain-sensing wipers, and rear parking sensors are also on board to help you drive more safely.
Generous Trunk Space
The Stinger isn’t one of those sports cars that forgets practicality in pursuing more power. Since it’s still a sedan, Kia treats you with more trunk space than you see in many sporty vehicles. With 23.3 cubic feet of trunk space behind the 60/40 split-folding rear seats, it’s got more than twice the space of some rivals. And you can always push down the rear seats to expand the cargo room. That makes the Stinger a great choice for short getaways and shopping sprees in and around Rochester.
Competitive Pricing
As one of Kia’s largest, most powerful vehicles, the 2023 Stinger is also one of the automaker’s most expensive. However, its price is competitive compared to other vehicles in the same class. It starts with an MSRP of $36,590 for the four-cylinder GT-Line trim. The V-6 GT2 model is understandably more expensive, with an MSRP price starting at $51,790.
You’ll need to budget an additional $2,200 to upgrade to an all-wheel drive. The Stinger’s nearest competitors cost around $1,500 to $9,000 more, depending on the model. While the Stinger isn’t a budget vehicle, it still offers real value for money in this class.
An Impressive Factory Warranty
The Stinger may be more affordable than many rivals, but Kia doesn’t skimp on the warranty. Its generous five-year/60,000-mile basic warranty helps you drive for years without worrying about facing major repair bills. With a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty covering the largest potential bills, Kia looks after its customers. This generous warranty is a testament to Kia’s belief in the quality of its cars, including the Stinger.
The 2023 Kia Stinger has already begun arriving at local dealerships. If you’d like to be one of the first to own one of these sporty sedans, speak to the friendly team at Tom Kadlec Kia. We can answer any questions about the latest Stinger and organize a test drive so you can experience what these vehicles can do.
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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.