2023 KIA Stinger

Overview

Kia has come a long way from its humble subcompacts like the Rio and quirky crossovers like the Soul. The 2023 Kia Stinger is proof that the brand can produce a genuinely thrilling sports sedan that blends luxury, performance, and practicality. Despite its impressive attributes, the Stinger remains somewhat underappreciated in a segment dominated by German nameplates.

The Stinger stands out with its sleek fastback design and balanced proportions. It combines rear-wheel drive dynamics with hatchback utility—delivering serious performance for an accessible price. At its core, it’s a five-door sport sedan that competes with the likes of the BMW 4-Series Gran Coupe, but undercuts it significantly on price while still offering comparable performance.

What Happened in 2023?

The 2023 model year marks the final chapter in the Stinger’s production run. To commemorate this, Kia has simplified the trim lineup and introduced special edition packages. The former GT-Line, GT1, and GT2 trims have been pared down to just GT-Line and GT2, streamlining the buying process.

Two special edition packages join the lineup: Apex for the GT-Line and Grand Tourer for the GT2. Apex features black accents, Brembo brakes, and darkened trim pieces. Grand Tourer adds black suede seat inserts, red stitching, and more premium interior touches. The most exclusive of all is the Tribute Edition, limited to 1,000 units worldwide. It features either Ascot Green or Moonscape matte gray paint, black Brembo brake calipers, and unique badging to celebrate the end of an era.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

The 2023 Kia Stinger starts at $37,865 for the base GT-Line and rises to $54,065 for the high-performance GT2. Given its potent twin-turbo V-6 and upscale appointments, the GT2 offers the best expression of the Stinger’s potential. While it comes at a higher price point, it delivers a true sports sedan experience.

Rear-wheel drive is standard on both trims, with all-wheel drive available for added traction in adverse weather. However, AWD models sacrifice summer performance tires and a bit of top-end speed (149 mph vs. 167 mph for RWD). For performance purists, sticking with the RWD GT2 is the ideal configuration.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

Buyers have two engine choices in the 2023 Stinger lineup:

• 2.5L Turbocharged Inline-4 (GT-Line): 300 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque
• 3.3L Twin-Turbocharged V-6 (GT2): 368 horsepower and 376 lb-ft of torque

Both are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, which performs well overall but can feel slightly muted when using paddle shifters. While the base four-cylinder is quick and efficient, the V-6 transforms the Stinger into a legitimate performance machine.

In testing, the AWD GT2 achieved 0-60 mph in just 4.6 seconds, making it the fastest Kia ever produced. The Stinger remains composed in everyday driving, but under hard cornering, the rear suspension can feel unsettled on rough pavement. The Brembo brakes on the GT2 trim offer strong, confidence-inspiring stops, further enhancing its athletic feel.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

Fuel efficiency varies depending on the engine and drivetrain:

• 2.5L RWD: 22 mpg city / 32 mpg highway
• 2.5L AWD: 21 mpg city / 29 mpg highway
• 3.3L V-6 RWD: 18 mpg city / 25 mpg highway
• 3.3L V-6 AWD: 17 mpg city / 24 mpg highway

During real-world testing, the AWD V-6 Stinger returned an impressive 26 mpg on a 75-mph highway route, outperforming its EPA estimate. While not a fuel-sipper, these numbers are respectable for a performance-focused sedan, especially one with a twin-turbo V-6.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

Inside, the Stinger impresses with a clean, driver-focused layout and upscale materials. While it may not match the tactile refinement of German rivals like Audi or BMW, it comes close enough—especially given its lower price tag.

Rear seat comfort is a highlight. Unlike many sport sedans with cramped back seats, the Stinger provides ample legroom and headroom for adults. The front seats are supportive and well-bolstered, especially in the GT2 trim with available Nappa leather.

Cargo capacity benefits from the hatchback design. Although real-world luggage testing revealed only a modest edge over competitors, the wide hatch opening and fold-flat rear seats make the Stinger far more practical than a typical sedan. The center console is generously sized, though front door pockets are smaller than expected.

Interior Photos

Infotainment and Connectivity

Kia’s UVO infotainment system is user-friendly and well-equipped. The standard 8.0-inch touchscreen offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while the GT2 upgrades to a 10.3-inch display with built-in navigation.

Other notable tech features include:

• A wireless phone charging pad
• Multiple USB ports
• Voice recognition
• A 9-speaker stereo system standard on GT-Line
• An optional 15-speaker Harman/Kardon audio system on GT2 for audiophiles

Physical knobs and buttons make it easy to adjust volume or climate controls without distraction—a welcome touch in an increasingly touchscreen-heavy world.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The Stinger boasts strong safety credentials, earning a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It also offers a robust suite of standard driver-assistance technologies:

• Automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
• Lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist
• Adaptive cruise control
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Rear cross-traffic alert

These features enhance driver confidence and contribute to the Stinger’s reputation as a safe and dependable daily driver.

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

One area where Kia truly shines is its warranty. The 2023 Stinger comes with:

• 5-year/60,000-mile limited warranty
• 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty

These numbers far exceed what’s offered by European brands, providing peace of mind and excellent long-term value. However, the Stinger lacks complimentary scheduled maintenance, which is often included with luxury competitors.

Final Thoughts: A Sports Sedan Worth Celebrating

The 2023 Kia Stinger is more than just a value alternative to German sport sedans—it’s a serious contender in its own right. With bold styling, a potent V-6 engine, and a feature-rich interior, the Stinger delivers a well-rounded and exciting driving experience.

It’s a shame that 2023 marks the final production year for the Stinger. The model never quite caught on in sales like its crossover siblings, but among enthusiasts and critics, it has carved out a well-earned reputation as one of the best performance bargains on the road.

Whether you’re considering a used model down the road or aiming to grab one of the last new units available, the Stinger represents Kia’s daring spirit—one that’s willing to challenge convention and deliver performance on its own terms.

If you’re shopping for a midsize sports sedan that turns heads and puts a smile on your face every time you start the engine, the 2023 Kia Stinger deserves a long, hard look.

Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – 2023 Kia Stinger

Is a Stinger a luxury car?

The Kia Stinger isn’t branded as a luxury car in the traditional sense like BMW or Mercedes-Benz, but it absolutely competes in the entry-level luxury sport sedan category. It offers premium materials, advanced technology, and refined ride quality, especially in the GT trims, making it a high-value alternative to luxury competitors.

How much does a Stinger Kia cost?

The 2023 Kia Stinger starts at around $37,865 USD for the GT-Line trim and goes up to approximately $54,065 USD for the top-tier GT2 AWD. The price varies depending on the engine choice, drivetrain (RWD or AWD), and additional packages or features.

Why is the Kia Stinger so fast?

The Kia Stinger’s performance is thanks to its powerful engine options, especially the 3.3L twin-turbo V6 that delivers 368 horsepower and 376 lb-ft of torque. Combined with a rear-wheel-drive layout, 8-speed automatic transmission, and sport-tuned suspension, the Stinger offers sharp acceleration and confident handling—earning it serious performance credibility.

Is a Stinger faster than a Mustang?

The Kia Stinger GT holds its own against the Ford Mustang EcoBoost, and even challenges the Mustang GT in some performance metrics. While the Mustang GT with its V8 is ultimately quicker in a straight line, the Stinger GT provides a more refined balance of speed, practicality, and comfort, making it a compelling choice for drivers who want performance with everyday usability.