{"id":1292,"date":"2019-08-04T21:18:47","date_gmt":"2019-08-05T01:18:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/articles.carcostcanada.com\/?p=1292"},"modified":"2025-03-06T16:23:21","modified_gmt":"2025-03-06T21:23:21","slug":"2019-kia-stinger-gt-line-road-test","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/articles.carcostcanada.com\/2019-kia-stinger-gt-line-road-test\/","title":{"rendered":"2019 Kia Stinger GT-Line Road Test"},"content":{"rendered":"
\"2019
Great looking Kia Stinger makes a strong visual statement. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Finally! Every time I\u2019ve been given the opportunity to test the new Kia Stinger something got in the way. The test model was either damaged by another journalist, or got put out to pasture before I could get into it, the latter due to me being out of country, but just a matter of days back from my regular winter warming in my favourite tropical isle had me ogling a beautiful California Red painted Stinger GT-Line parked in front of my temporary left coast home.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

I have to say the Stinger looks impressively upscale. Even in my tester\u2019s base GT-Line trim, it comes standard with automatic dual-function LED headlamps, LED daytime running lights, LED positioning lamps, body-wide bar-type LED tail lamps, classy dark chrome exterior trim details with the same darkened chrome used for the side mirror housings, these also enhanced with slim LED turn signals, while sharp looking 18-inch machine-finished alloy wheels on 225\/45 rubber round out the look, as does a set of chromed exhaust pipes at back.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

While base, it should be noted that the entry-level Stinger starts at a considerable $39,995 plus freight and fees, but despite its less than prestigious Kia branding it really comes across as something much closer to premium than most anything in its mid-size segment.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"2019
The Stinger’s sloping rear profile makes it look fast standing still. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The Stinger is a mid-size sedan, by the way. I\u2019ve noticed some consider it compact because it utilizes the same underpinnings as the Genesis G70, which is a compact luxury model going up against BMW\u2019s 3 Series, Mercedes\u2019 C-Class, Audi\u2019s A4, et al, but in spite of having similar wheelbase lengths of 2,910 mm (114.4 in) compared to 2,835 mm (111.6 in), both being longer than the Optima\u2019s 2,805-mm (110.4-in) wheelbase, the Stinger\u2019s 4,830 mm (190.2 in) nose-to-tail length spans 145 mm (5.7 in) farther than the G70\u2019s, while it only measures 20 mm (0.8 in) shorter than Kia\u2019s Optima family sedan.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Also notable, at 1,870 mm (73.6 in) the Stinger is 20 mm (0.8 in) wider than the G70 and 10 mm (0.4 in) narrower than the Optima, while it stands 1,400 mm (55.1 in) tall, which is identical to the G70 and 70 mm (2.7 in) lower than the Optima. Those still choosing to call the Stinger compact will also want to take note that it\u2019s 190 mm (7.5 in) longer than the Forte sedan (a reasonable large compact itself), with a 210-mm (8.2-in) longer wheelbase, while it\u2019s 70 mm (2.7 in) wider too. So it\u2019s obviously a mid-size model, even offering up a longer wheelbase and more width than the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord, although slightly less length and height.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"2019
The LED headlights, 18-inch alloys, and dramatic styling come standard. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The Stinger\u2019s long, low and wide dimensions make it more of a four-door coupe-like sedan, its sporty profile backed up by dynamic styling and a premium cabin, at least for its volume branded pedigree (or lack thereof). I should mention this isn\u2019t Kia\u2019s first premium-like entry, or for that matter its most luxurious. We only need to look to the Mercedes S-Class\/BMW 7 Series-sized K900 for Kia\u2019s highest-end car, a model that might only be outmaneuvered amongst pedestrian brands for all out premium cachet by the Volkswagen Phaeton, but like that outrageous VW the K900 didn\u2019t garner enough popularity to enjoy prolonged availability in Canada, so therefore is now history north of the 49th.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Where the K900 was a seriously impressive luxury sedan, it couldn\u2019t even come close to the Stinger\u2019s viability here in Canada. It comes down to affordability, its more popular mid-size market segment, and a greater focus on performance than luxury. Size aside, I would\u2019ve previously said it comes closest to mirroring the Dodge Charger in spirit than anything else in its class, at least until Volkswagen showed up with its new Arteon a few months ago. The Arteon, that\u2019s based on the European Passat, just replaced the outgoing CC four-door coupe. The two are near identical in size and similarly powered, so are therefore going after the same sport-oriented customers, in the Stinger\u2019s base trim at least, but with its base price more than $8,000 loftier than the Stinger\u2019s aforementioned window sticker, the new Arteon is reaching up much further into premium territory.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"2019
All the black chromed detailing adds a rich, upscale look. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

By the way, the Stinger weighs in between 1,729 and 1,782 kilograms (3,812 and 3,929 lbs) with its as-tested 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder, or 1,873 and 1,889 kg (4,129 and 4,165 lbs) with its optional V6, whereas the Arteon hits the scale at 1,748 kilos (3,854 lbs) and the larger and heftier Charger offers more mass for your dollars at 1,823 to 1,980 kg (4,021 to 4,530 lbs). While lighter than the Charger, the all-wheel drive Stinger and Arteon are significantly heavier than the previously noted mid-size front-drive family sedans, giving the car being reviewed here, at least (I\u2019ve yet to drive the Arteon that\u2019s scheduled for August 26), more of a substantive, premium-like feel.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Kia really does manage to pull off a near luxury brand level of refinement inside thanks to details like cloth-wrapped A, B and C pillars, a soft, pliable dash top with a really well-finished padded instrument bolster crossing the entire dash front, as well as premium-level soft composite door uppers front to back. All of the Stinger\u2019s button, knobs and switches are nicely fitted with good damping as well, with some aluminized for an especially upscale look and feel, while this base model\u2019s standard perforated leather upholstery is definitely up to par for a volume-branded sedan.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"2019
Those unfamiliar with Kia will be surprised at the Stinger’s refined cabin. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Being that we\u2019re already talking about features, standard content includes a heated leather-clad flat-bottom sport steering wheel that\u2019s sized perfectly for performance and feels great in the hands, plus a leather-wrapped and chrome-adorned shift knob, piano black interior accents, comfortable and supportive heatable eight-way powered front seats with four-way power-adjustable lumbar, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, power-folding outside mirrors, two-zone auto HVAC, LED cabin lighting, ambient mood lights, and a 7.0-inch infotainment touchscreen that\u2019s my only cause for complaint, being that it\u2019s too small and isn\u2019t flush within its fixed mounting and therefore looks dated.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

This display houses the usual backup camera, plus Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, and Kia\u2019s exclusive UVO Intelligence connected car services, while nine-speaker audio provides good sound quality for a base stereo, even incorporating standard satellite radio, whereas the wireless device charger is a very impressive standard feature as well.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"2019
The Stinger mixes sport elements with plenty of luxurious touch points. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Proximity-sensing technology lets you in the car while a satin-silver button fires up the engine, again on the standard menu, while the electric parking brake releases automatically. The just noted rearview camera combines with standard rear parking sonar and rear cross-traffic alert to help keep the Stinger\u2019s dazzling paintwork free from scratches and dents, the latter feature bundled together with blind spot detection. Once pointing forward choose from a list of Drive Mode Select settings including Smart, Eco, Comfort, Sport and Custom, slot the eight-speed Sportmatic automatic gearbox in Drive or move the lever over to manual mode in order to get the most out of the standard steering wheel paddle shifters, which is how I enjoyed all 255 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque generated by the Stinger\u2019s standard direct-injection, turbocharged, 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

This might only be the base powertrain, but due to 100 percent of its torque arriving at only 1,400 rpm, plus each of its four wheels simultaneously gripping the pavement below, this most basic of Stingers moves away from a standing start quickly, and stays on the power to highway speeds and beyond. Its twin exhaust pipes make a nice sporty note, complementing the engine\u2019s mechanical tone, the Stinger delivering an enjoyable soundtrack alongside its strong acceleration.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"2019
If you want more digital in the instrument cluster, move into a higher trim level. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Of course, this base engine won\u2019t be as brilliantly satisfying as the available twin-turbocharged 3.3-litre V6, that powerhouse providing 365 soul-stirring horsepower and 376 lb-ft of twist (the Arteon doesn\u2019t offer an optional powertrain), but the turbocharged four is a compromise I\u2019d be more than happy to live with, particularly when factoring in its much greater efficiency. Comparatively, the four-cylinder is rated at 11.1 L\/100km city, 8.1 highway and 9.7 combined, whereas the V6 gets a claimed 13.6, 9.6 and 11.8 respectively, while both are assisted by an auto start\/stop system that shuts the engine off when it would otherwise be idling.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

I\u2019m guessing the last thing you\u2019ll want to be thinking about when flinging the Stinger through a set of fast-paced curves is fuel economy, the car\u2019s fully independent MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension featuring gas shocks and dynamic dampers that help to deliver an ideally firm yet compliant ride and handling combination that proves superb over all types of tarmac, from broken backroads to smooth-as-glass freeways.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Braking is also strong, with four-cylinder models benefiting from 320 mm (12.6 in) front vented discs and 314 mm (12.4 in) rear solid rotors, plus the V6 model improving binding power with a set of Brembo discs measuring 350 mm (13.8 in) and 340 mm (13.4 in) respectively, plus the addition of vented rotors in the rear.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"2019
The centre stack provides all that’s needed, but the base infotainment display was a bit underwhelming. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

While the Stinger looks fast standing still, its long and lean body capable of minimizing drag and amply maximizing downforce, it also provides more than enough rear headroom for most adults\u2019 needs. I had about three inches above my five-foot-eight frame when seated behind the driver\u2019s seat, so six-footers should have no problem. What\u2019s more, cargo access is excellent due to its less conventional four-door coupe-style rear liftback, which opens up to 660 litres (23.3 cu ft) of volume behind the 60\/40-split rear seatbacks or 1,158 litres (40.9 cu ft) of gear-toting space when they\u2019re flipped forward. So the Stinger is not only good looking, fun to drive and beautifully finished inside, it\u2019s also plenty practical.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

I\u2019ll be spending a week with the new Arteon soon, and will let you know if it measures up to the Stinger for passenger and luggage space, plus if its loftier price range provides any benefits, but I\u2019ll say right now the VeeDub will need to be very good in order to upstage this Stinger when it comes to performance, interior quality, features and value. As it stands, with all options included the Arteon costs just over $53k, which makes it pricier than the most expensive $51,495 Stinger GT Limited 20th Anniversary Edition that gets unique 19-inch alloys, carbon fibre d\u00e9cor trim, red Nappa leather, and custom red-stitched \u201cStinger<\/em>\u201d floor mats, while the mid-range Stinger GT starts at $44,995 and the regular GT Limited can be had for $49,995 (learn more about 2019 Kia Stinger trims, packages and standalone options right here at CarCostCanada<\/a>, and don\u2019t forget that we can help you save hundreds or even thousands via manufacturer rebates and dealer invoice pricing).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"2019
The standard leather-covered sport seats are quite supportive. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The last two trim lines get there own set of 19-inch alloys, an upgraded suspension with Dynamic Stability Damping Control (DSDC), noise-reducing front side glass, auto-dimming outer mirrors, stainless steel tread plates, stainless sport pedals, carbon fibre-style inlays (that replace the piano black ones), shift-by-wire transmission control (replacing the base model\u2019s shift-by-cable gearbox) a power-adjustable tilt and telescopic steering wheel, driver\u2019s memory, an under-floor storage tray, a large moonroof, a gesture-controlled power liftgate, plus a luggage net.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Finally, the GT Limited provides a special set of cornering headlights, rain-sensing windshield wipers, aluminum-finish trim (replacing the faux carbon fibre), a black roofliner, a 7.0-inch Supervision LCD\/TFT digital instrument cluster, a heads-up display (HUD), a HomeLink universal transceiver, Nappa leather upholstery, cooled front seats, heated rear outboard seats, a driver\u2019s seat upgrade with four-way \u201cair cell\u201d lumbar support, powered side bolsters, and a power-operated lower squab extension, an 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen (that really should be standard) with a surround parking monitor system and navigation, 15-speaker Harman Kardon audio, dynamic cruise control, autonomous emergency braking (that\u2019s usually standard in this class), lane keep assist, and driver attention alert.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"2019
Rear roominess and comfort is very good. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

You might be interested in knowing that year-over-year (YoY) Stinger sales slipped a bit during the first six months of this year in Canada, having dropped 14.38 percent due to just 750 units leaving Kia dealer lots, but this said it\u2019s doing its job to boost the brand\u2019s mid-size car sales now that the Optima has become 44.67 percent less popular over the same half year, with just 872 deliveries on the books. As for how the Stinger sells against regular front-drive mid-size sedans, the Camry took no prisoners over the same two quarters with 8,586 sales (an increase of 12.87 percent), whereas the Accord held second with 5,837 deliveries (dropping 9.71 percent). The Arteon, incidentally, found just 184 buyers so far in 2019, but to be fair it only came on the market this spring so we\u2019ll need to wait and see how it fares over the long haul. This said if the Passat is any indicator, its poor Q1 and Q2 total of 474 deliveries should hardly give VW confidence, this number representing a 75.55 percent fall from grace compared to January through June of 2018.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Continuing on this theme, there are 14 different mid-size sedans fighting it out in this class, including the Stinger and Arteon, but not the aforementioned Charger that competes against cars like the Toyota Avalon, Nissan Maxima etcetera in the full-size or large sedan category. Of these 14, nine are in the red as far as growth goes, one (the Arteon) is to new to measure, and just four are in the black (positive), while the Stinger\u2019s small decline is not as significant as many rivals, and more the result of the entire mid-size sedan category\u2019s loss of favour than any lack of interest in this specific car.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"2019
There’s loads of cargo space under the liftgate. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

In fact, I witness the polar opposite during my entire test week, with loads of smiling stares, positive nods of appreciation and general goodwill while driving by onlookers. Stinger owners can hold their heads high as this car garners a lot of respect, while it will no doubt benefit Kia\u2019s overall brand image long-term as well. If you\u2019re thinking about purchasing a new mid-size sedan, you may want to take a closer look at this innovative, well-sorted four-door coupe, because it delivers a higher level of style, refinement and features than most rivals, while it still should be practical enough for most peoples\u2019 requirements.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Story and photo credits: Trevor Hofmann<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Finally! Every time I\u2019ve been given the opportunity to test the new Kia Stinger something got in the way. The test model was either damaged by another journalist, or got put out to pasture before I could get into it, the latter due to me being out of country, but just a matter of days […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":1308,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"site-container-style":"default","site-container-layout":"default","site-sidebar-layout":"default","disable-article-header":"default","disable-site-header":"default","disable-site-footer":"default","disable-content-area-spacing":"default","footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[31,58,260,259,239,79,78,38,62,258,64,91],"class_list":["post-1292","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-carcostcanada","tag-31","tag-awd","tag-four-door-coupe","tag-gt-line","tag-kia","tag-review","tag-road-test","tag-sedan","tag-sport","tag-stinger","tag-turbo","tag-v6"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/articles.carcostcanada.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1292","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/articles.carcostcanada.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/articles.carcostcanada.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/articles.carcostcanada.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/articles.carcostcanada.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1292"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/articles.carcostcanada.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1292\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1307,"href":"https:\/\/articles.carcostcanada.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1292\/revisions\/1307"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/articles.carcostcanada.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1308"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/articles.carcostcanada.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1292"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/articles.carcostcanada.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1292"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/articles.carcostcanada.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1292"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}