Introduced in 2018 in the US market, Kia Stinger was launched to tackle the German entry-level luxury offerings. However the task was never going to be easy anyday. To tackle the challenge Kia poured in the formulae of an exotic sportback design, a powerful engine, premium materials sporty mechanics together. The result of this experiment was the Kia Stinger. An extremely stylish sports sedan that can chase cars of much higher caliber on the streets.
While the Stinger GT offers the optimum potential of the exotic Korean sedan, the base models too have a great every day driving flair. Agile, comfortable, sporty on demand and a ton of advanced features to fiddle with. However, since its launch in 2018, the Stinger has remained mostly carried over in its successive model years. The case would mostly be the same even in 2020 though. However, the upcoming 2021 Kia Stinger is slated to get some minor cosmetic as well as mechanical treatment. Important of all being a new base engine and a power bump in the existing 3.3T. That being said, we take a quick look here at the 2021 Kia Stinger.
What’s New with the 2021 Kia Stinger?
- Added safety and driver assistance features
- Bigger infotainment system with updated software
- New exhaust system
- New 19-inch alloy wheels
- New 2.5-liter turbo base engine
- Power bump in the 3.3-liter turbo engine
- New front and rear fascia
Expected Price and Release Date of the 2021 Kia Stinger
While Kia is yet to make an official announcement on the release and price of the upcoming Stinger, we do have our hands full of optimism. In accordance with the global market scenario amidst the pandemic, expect the 2021 Kia Stinger lineup to unfold around late 2020. With some reworks and updates, prices might see a marginal surge as well. Expect the 2021 Stinger to ask something around $34,000 for the base model.
What’s under the hood of the 2021 Kia Stinger?
The most buzzed thing about the 2021 Kia Stinger is its engine options for sure. Gone would be the earlier 2.0-liter turbo engine in the base model and comes in a new 2.5-liter turbo 4-cylinder that would pop out 300 hp instead of 255 ponies in the 2.0-liter pot. This is the same engine which also powers the Genesis GV80 and would also serve the upcoming G80. The 3.3-liter turbo mill in the Stinger GT remains the same though but comes with a slight power bump, poshing the total output to 373 hp from 365 in the current 2020 model.
What remains same though, is the 8-speed automatic transmission that would still cater to both the engines. While the higher 3.3-liter turbo would still remain a natural choice for enthusiasts, even the base model with a significant 300 ponies should be apt enough to facilitate some highway stunts. While the previous 255 hp never felt like it needed more power, the 300 hp new base engine should have an aptly filled stomach though. All of the Stinger’s prowess is effortlessly sent to the rear wheels via the smooth and slick 8-speed auto which should be the same even in 2021.
|
Models |
2021 Kia Stinger (Expected) |
2020 Dodge Charger |
2020 Chrysler 300 |
2020 Toyota Avalon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
MSRP |
$34,000 |
$29,895 |
$29,470 |
$35,800 |
|
Engine |
2.5-liter turbo inline-4 |
3.6-liter V6 |
3.6-liter V6 |
3.5-liter V6 |
|
Drivetrain |
RWD |
RWD |
RWD |
FWD |
|
Transmission |
8-speed shiftable automatic |
8-speed automatic w/OD and auto-manual |
8-speed automatic w/OD and auto-manual |
8-speed shiftable automatic |
|
Power (hp @ rpm) |
300 @ TBD |
292 @ 6,350 |
292 @ 6,350 |
301 @ 6,600 |
|
Torque (lb-ft @ rpm) |
311 @ TBD |
260 @ 4,800 |
260 @ 4,800 |
267 @ 4,700 |
|
0-60 MPH (seconds) |
5.6 |
6.4 |
6.2 |
6.0 |
|
Quarter-Mile (seconds) |
14.5 |
14.8 |
15.7 |
14.6 |
*2020 figures used for reference
While all the cars in the competition here are similarly powered to each other, the Stinger and Avalon take a small lead with their 300+ horses. The 2021 Stinger GT though would stretch things even further with its 373 hp. Despite pf close power in the base models though, there is a significant difference in the straight line performances of all the vehicles here. While the current 2020 Kia Stinger with its base 255 hp motor does 0-60 in 5.9 seconds, we expect things to be even better in 2021 with the revised power output. The 2021 Kia Stinger should run from 0-60 in around 5.6 seconds. What gives the Stinger an edge over its rivals is its sport-tuning, enhanced aerodynamics, slick transmission and effective weight distribution.
How does the 2021 Kia Stinger handle?
A statement very bold to make, but the Kia Stinger is certainly the best driving thing in the lot here. Owing to its heft and size, its certainly not a hardcore track thing but has got enough assurances to delight you on your daily commute. The supple suspension takes up bumps pretty well with minimum vibrations entering inside the cabin. Though the ride is firm and comfortable around the city, it gets a bit off the pace at higher speeds.
Though the available AWD and traction control feel efficient in their jobs, its heavy mass and RWD biasness does make its proportions felt around fast cornerings along with some significant understeer. Not for too long though. The steering wheel has a nice weight into it maneuvers its responsiveness beautifully according to the four available drive modes. Not as fun as a BMW 3-series though, but for its class and price, the Stinger blends a great deal of composure and sportiness for sure.
What are the expected MPG figures for the 2021 Kia Stinger?
Despite a sip of performance drink, where the current 2020 Stinger surprises again is with its fuel economy. Even with a significant performance orientation, the 2020 Kia Stinger with its base 255 hp motor delivers an acceptable 25 combined mpg. However, with the power bump and a new base engine for 2021, the aforementioned number is likely to take a dip but we expect it not to drop by a great margin.
|
Models |
2021 Kia Stinger (Expected) |
2020 Dodge Charger |
2020 Chrysler 300 |
2020 Toyota Avalon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
MPG (City) |
22 |
19 |
19 |
22 |
|
MPG (Highway) |
29 |
30 |
30 |
32 |
|
MPG (Combined) |
25 |
23 |
23 |
26 |
|
Fuel Capacity (Gallons) |
15.9 |
18.5 |
18.5 |
14.5 |
|
Range (City/Hwy/Combined) (mi) |
350/461/397 |
352/555/425 |
352/555/425 |
319/464/377 |
*2020 figures used for reference
Among its rivals today, the 2020 Stinger does offer a very comparative economy. In fact it's only second to the Toyota Avalon’s 26 combined mpg among its segment. Not by a great margin though. Though the 2021 Kia Stinger might lose out some of its mpg but it should aptly compensate it with its increased power and reciprocative performance. However, another area where the Stinger disappoints is its small fuel tank which can only hold 15.9 gallons of fuel resulting in an average driving range.
What to expect from the 2021 Kia Stinger’s interior?
A premium aura instantly invites you the moment you hop inside a Kia Stinger. The cabin layout feels very modern and the sport-oriented placement of things is certainly visible. There is a nice blend of soft-touch materials alongside silver accents inside the cabin and the build quality too feels very good. Seating position is neither too low nor too high and you also get a good outward visibility.
as standard every Stinger rolls out of the factory with leather seating surfaces which does feel soft and smooth. Furthermore, the front seats also offer a wide range of power-adjustability along with heating and ventilation. The seats are comfortable, supportive, and wide enough to hold you in place around quick corners. Even the seats at thye back have a comfortable height and recline angle for relaxed long hauls.
|
Models |
2021 Kia Stinger (Expected) |
2020 Dodge Charger |
2020 Chrysler 300 |
2020 Toyota Avalon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Seating Capacity |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
|
Front Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in) |
37.4/58.3/42.1 |
38.6/59.5/41.8 |
38.6/59.5/41.8 |
37.4/58.3/42.1 |
|
Rear Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in) |
37.5/57.1/40.3 |
36.6/57.9/40.1 |
37.9/57.7/40.1 |
37.5/57.1/40.3 |
|
Cargo Capacity (cu.ft.) |
23.3 |
16.1 |
N/A |
N/A |
*2020 figures used for reference
While the Stinger does fare well on the comfort part, it is left behind by its poor seatroom, especially at the front. Legroom at both the benches is best in class but the headroom at the front seats is the least nevertheless. Interestingly, even with a dramatic roofline, the Stinger’s 37.5-inches of rear-seat headroom stands second only to the Chrysler 300’s 37.9. However, where the Stinger surprises the most is with its crossover like 23.3 cu.ft. of massive cargo space. Thanks to its hatchback rear profile for this generosity though. No surprise, no other car in its segment even gets close to the Stinger’s cargo space.
What about the infotainment of the 2021 Kia Stinger?
As part of the update formula, the 2021 Kia Stinger will be getting an updated infotainment setup. A new 10.25 inch touchscreen infotainment would kick in as standard across the lineup replacing the current 7.0-incher. Similar to the current model, the upcoming Stinger would fit in all the latest and modern gizmos like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and satellite radio.
For 2021 though, Alexa integration and voice-command support might make their way into the feature list. A bonkers 15-speaker Harman audio system should remain in tact though. While the current 2020 Stinger does have a clean interface with good graphics, it's let down by its laggy responses at times. We hope that Kia fixes this bug with the 2021 update.
Will there be any changes on the exterior of the 2021 Kia Stinger?
The Kia Stinger is a mixture of sleek and muscular, giving it a unique design. It is expected that the 2021 model of the Kia Stinger will get a mild facelift; means the long-running design would be refreshed. However, don't expect some drastic changes for sure. The spy shots of camouflaged test mules reveal that the 2021 Kia Stinger might get an updated front and rear fascia. Expect a redesigned front and rear bumper along with updated headlamps and tail lamps.
Apart from the expected aforementioned changes, rest should remain the same with the 2021 Kia Stinger. Keeping aside the changes for a while, the current Kia Stinger is by far one of the best looking sports sedans in the market right now. Sharp lines, sporty and edgy front end and the sloping roof-line along with muscular rear-haunches and flares give it a profile like no other. It looks aggressive, sporty and extremely stylish at the very same time. Even at the rear, a wide stature and horizontal tail lamps make it look imposing from the rear.Talk about road presence and the Stinger has tons of it.
|
Models |
2021 Kia Stinger (Expected) |
2020 Dodge Charger |
2020 Chrysler 300 |
2020 Toyota Avalon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Curb Weight (lbs) |
3611 |
3,934 |
4,013 |
3560 |
|
Length (in) |
190.2 |
198.4 |
198.6 |
195.9 |
|
Width (in) |
73.6 |
75.0 |
75.0 |
72.8 |
|
Height (in) |
55.1 |
58.2 |
58.5 |
56.5 |
|
Ground Clearance (in) |
5.1 |
4.9 |
5.0 |
5.3 |
|
Wheelbase (in) |
114.4 |
120.2 |
120.2 |
113.0 |
*2020 figures used for reference
While the Stinger might not be as large as its rivals, it just has the perfect proportions in its class. Top that all with a flashy yet muscular outfit which makes it stand out in its segment. The Stinger is one of those cars which very proudly wears its core intent on its sleeves. The way it looks is the way also it drives. While the other cars in the lot do carry a sense of elegance and conservative styling, the Stinger looks something right out of the box.
Will the 2021 Kia Stinger be worth my money and time?
If you are looking for a midsize sports sedan, you should look no further than the Kia Stinger. It's powerful, comfortable, super-stylish, premium and offers a generous cargo and efficiency as well. Best of all, it does handle better than most of its rivals and also has an attainable price tag. If you could wait for a few more months, the upcoming 2021 Kia Stinger would offer even more power, better styling and updated suite of connectivity features.
