Product launches are usually well-orchestrated events, especially with the rise of livestreamed virtual showcases replacing traditional press conferences. This holds true for anything from the latest tech gadget to a new automobile. Hence, it comes as a surprise that almost a week prior to the official reveal of the revamped U.S.-spec 2022 Kia Stinger by the Korean manufacturer, the car has already been delivered to several dealerships and is listed for sale online, accompanied by notably poor-quality images.
Recently, Kia shared a cropped teaser image showcasing the new headlight design of the 2022 Stinger, indicating viewers should stay tuned for the complete reveal on March 16. However, thanks to Citrus Motors in California and Towbin Kia in Nevada, potential buyers can already find the updated model online, specifically the GT1 trim, which is priced in the mid-$40,000 range. What could have led to such an oversight?
According to Kia representatives, this situation isn’t a blunder. A spokesperson remarked, “[There’s] nothing suspicious going on… just dealers eager for the new models, and yes, the big reveal is early next week. You’re going to love the video we’ve put together!” While this may be accurate, it also means that potential customers can learn about the 2022 Stinger’s features before the official event. Notably, the spokesperson did not directly respond to our inquiry regarding how these vehicles reached dealerships ahead of schedule.
A sales manager at Towbin Kia mentioned that the car arrived last week, but could not explain why the facelifted 2022 model was delivered so early. It might be a strategy to prepare some dealerships with new Stingers, though honestly, sales haven’t been incredibly brisk.
Now, let’s delve into the vehicle.
The updated Stinger features several small yet significant changes. Up front, the LED headlight pattern stands out as the most prominent update. The introduction of Kia’s new logo also hints at a modern branding strategy for future models. The rear design has also seen welcomed enhancements, including a new lower valance, larger exhaust openings—which ideally will improve sound quality—and a revamped taillight design featuring a full-width light bar. Additionally, the new wheel designs are quite striking, both visually and literally.
From the images we’ve seen, the interior appears largely unchanged, apart from the new logo on the steering wheel and the expanded 10-inch infotainment display that has already been integrated into 2021 model year Stingers in different regions. Although details on the engine remain scarce, CarScoops—the first to identify the listings—has reported seeing a dealer sheet indicating a modest three-horsepower increase in the existing twin-turbo V6 engine, bringing its total output to 368 hp.
Certainly, there are likely many other updates rumored to include new standard safety features, a variable exhaust system, and the addition of a new 300-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder base engine, along with an anticipated price increase of $3,000 above the current starting price of $34,135. Full details will be available on March 16, unless another dealership takes the initiative to leak the complete specifications sooner.
For comparison, here’s a look at the 2021 Stinger from the front and rear.
Despite the various new features, the Stinger retains much of its original character beneath the refreshed exterior—and that’s perfectly acceptable. The Stinger is a genuinely impressive performance sedan that deserves more recognition. Ironically, the car experienced dealer markups and restrictions, such as bans on test drives shortly after its 2017 debut, leading to doubts about whether Kia dealerships were adequately prepared to cater to the affluent enthusiasts that the Stinger was designed for.
Was the early shipping of these cars an accident? Possibly. Or could it be a strategic move by Kia dealerships to make the Stinger more accessible? Regardless, the 2022 Kia Stinger is set for its official launch on March 16. Yes, officially.
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