Despite a bold advertising campaign featuring Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler and former Formula 1 champion Emerson Fittipaldi, Kia’s Stinger sports sedan has seen only modest sales. However, this has not deterred Kia, which plans to revamp the 2021 model year by introducing a new engine choice and a significantly improved technology package.
Leading these enhancements is a new, exclusive 2.5-liter turbo engine available in the Americas, offering 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. This engine fills the gap between the existing 2.0- and 3.3-liter options, delivering peak torque as low as 1,650 rpm, enabling the Stinger to navigate congested traffic with ease and outpace the Toyota Camry TRD. Additionally, buyers of the 2021 Stinger GTS, powered by a 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6, will benefit from the addition of active exhaust valving, which adjusts the sound volume according to driving conditions while also enhancing performance, resulting in 368 horsepower and 376 pound-feet of torque.
The base 2.0-liter engine, the eight-speed automatic transmission, and the available all-wheel drive remain unchanged for 2021. Instead, Kia has concentrated on significantly enhancing the Stinger’s technology offerings. The Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) now include features for easier highway driving, such as blind spot monitoring, lane centering assistance, and following distance alerts. Additionally, for parking, rear cross-traffic alerts and rear passenger assistance have been added—helping to ensure children are not inadvertently left in hot cars.
The new Stinger also introduces remote start alongside climate control features. Families will appreciate the entertainment options, as the available 10.25-inch screen can connect to two phones simultaneously. Both Apple and Android compatibility are standard, as well as access to voice-controlled interior functions. The driver enjoys an upgraded gauge cluster screen, which increases from 3.5 inches to 4.2 inches, with the option to upgrade to a 7-inch display featuring enhanced graphics.
The 2021 Kia Stinger lineup is expected to be launched in the United States by the end of the year. The Drive has reached out to Kia for pricing details on the 2.5-liter model and will provide updates once information is received.
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