KIA Stinger T-GDI GT-Line on test

by Matt Shine | 25 April 2018

The Stinger according to KIA is a quote, ‘four door, executive Gran Turismo with all the elegance, dynamism and sophistication of a blue-chip European brand.’

Stinger

With the Stinger Kia have firmly planted their flag in the premium executive sporty car arena previously the preserve of European manufacturers and of course from across the pond American car makers.

Perfectly balanced design meets outstanding performance in this stylish fastback.’

With its coupe-like rear profile, this five-door hatchback Kia have produced a contender to the A5 or the 4 Series Grand Coupe, but Kia are not just copying their competitors style because as well as having a highly responsive rear-drive chassis, Kia have equipped all the UK models with a limited-slip differential, with the top-spec GT-S boasting a 365bhp twin-turbo V6 along with the performance to match.

There are less expensive four-cylinder petrol and diesel options available, too, all providing competitive levels of pace with the established rivals.

Personal taste will dictate whether like the lines of this car, but The Stinger certainly has better proportions than any other executive saloon’s, it boasts a long wheelbase and is lower and wider than most of its European competitors.

Behind the wheel you will notice the Stinger has a slightly lower driving position than is typical of the executive chariot which will become more apparent once you’ve settled behind the wheel.

Inside the interior is far more luxurious than we are used to from the normal functional appearance usually found in a Kia, most noticeable is the freestanding tablet-like 8in infotainment display.

On practicality, however the Stinger is hard to fault, being really picky head room is a touch limited in the rear, but extra leg room compensates and very good boot which is both generous and accessible through the car’s electric ‘liftgate’ hatchback.

Kia certainly have a winner here in this executive ‘muscle’ car with plenty of appeal.