What Is the 2023 Kia Stinger?
The 2023 Kia Stinger is an extroverted mid-size sedan that turns heads thanks to its ground-hugging stance and swept-back roofline. While it’s hardly the newest kid on the block anymore, the Stinger remains an exhilarating, esoteric choice for car shoppers who want performance and upscale style but don’t mind forgoing a fancy luxury label.
A 300-horsepower, turbo 2.5-liter four-cylinder serves as the base powertrain. For many shoppers, this engine’s gusto makes stepping up to the optional 368-hp, twin-turbo V-6 unnecessary. All-wheel drive is available with either engine. The cabin has intuitive controls and a user-friendly infotainment system, but the Stinger’s hunkered-down shape significantly hinders outward visibility.
What’s New on the 2023 Kia Stinger?
The Kia Stinger lineup has been trimmed to two trims: the base GT-Line and the range-topping GT2 (gone is the mid-level GT1). There’s also a trio of uniquely trimmed special editions: Apex, Grand Tourer and Tribute Edition. The limited-production Tribute Edition (just 400 units are destined for the U.S.) serves as a send-off for this slow-selling car: Kia will discontinue the Stinger after the 2023 model year.
What Features in the 2023 Kia Stinger Are Most Important?
Standard features include:
- 10.2-inch infotainment screen
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Navigation
- Satellite radio
- Wireless device charging
- LED headlights
- Forward automatic emergency braking
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Blind spot warning system
- Remote start
- Leather seating
- Dual-zone climate control
- Heated front seats
Available features include:
- All-wheel drive
- Heated steering wheel
- Moonroof
- 15-speaker audio system
- Upgraded Brembo brakes
- Carbon-fiber interior trim
Should I Buy the 2023 Kia Stinger?
While the Kia Stinger seems like an indulgence given its relatively steep price and brash styling, this sedan also has a sensible side. Unlike many modern cars and SUVs, the Stinger’s classy cabin includes easy-to-use tactile knobs and buttons, not frustrating touch-sensitive controls, and the rear hatchback and roomy trunk give the Stinger cargo-toting street cred to go along with its invigorating acceleration. Negatives include poor fuel economy, even with the base turbo four-cylinder, and limited visibility due to the car’s low fastback roofline.
