The Kia Stinger is one of the brand’s most exciting
vehicles, but it was outsold by the Sedona minivan last month. Now, Kia is
looking to renew interest in the model by introducing the limited edition
Stinger GTS.
Featuring an eye-catching Federation orange paint
job, that is exclusive to the model, the Stinger GTS is bound to draw
attention. When onlookers eventually come up for a closer peek, they’ll notice
a handful of carbon fiber components including the mirror caps, side vents and
surround for the tiger nose grille. Other changes include GTS badging and a
Stinger emblem which replaces the Kia logo on the trunk.
Interior changes are relatively minor, but drivers
will find a suede-like headliner and Alcantara upholstery on the steering wheel
and center console. The car also features a power sunroof, a wireless
smartphone charger and a 720-watt Harman/Kardon premium audio system.
While most of the changes aren’t very dramatic, the
Stinger GTS will be available with a newly developed dynamic all-wheel drive
system. It promises to deliver a driving experience that is more like the
rear-wheel drive variant.
The all-wheel drive system
has been given a significant rear-bias. Comfort mode sends 60% of the power to
the rear wheels, while Sport mode delivers 80%. There’s also a Drift mode which
can send 100% of the power to the rear wheels and also hold gears without
upshifting. The D-AWD system also adds a limited slip rear differential. Power comes from a twin-turbo
3.3-liter V6 engine that produces 365 hp and 509
Nm of torque. It is connected to an eight-speed automatic transmission and
customers can choose either rear- or all-wheel drive.
Production will be limited to 800 units and the
first Stinger GTS’ are expected to roll off the assembly line this spring. When
they arrive in dealerships, they’ll have a base price of approximately US$ 44,000
for rear-wheel drive variants and around US$ 46,500 for all-wheel drive models.
