The Stinger might have not achieved the level of sales success that Kia hoped for, but it was fairly successful in taking the ‘Kia’ brand to a different level. People looked at every Kia that followed after the Stinger in a different way. The point is, the Stinger was successful in changing the brand perception.
Although the Stinger GT packed a 365 bhp twin-turbo V6 motor with impressive driving dynamics, it’s the looks which the general public and the media loved. Which is probably why Kia decided not to mess with that winning formula in this updated Stinger. The styling tweaks are rather subtle and barely distinguishable.
These include revised headlight internals, two new 18-inch or 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, and new taillight internals with turn signals made of 10 individual LEDs arranged in a grid pattern to mimic a checkered flag. Buyers get the option of wide-bore bright silver exhaust tips. There’s also a revised diffuser insert.
In addition, there are two new exterior packages for the first time. For high-performance variants, the ‘Dark Package’ adds a gloss black diffuser surround and black wide-bore exhaust tips. The Stinger logo on the tailgate is also finished in black. North American markets get a ‘Black Package’ that includes new 19-inch matte black light-weight wheels, an integrated spoiler for the trunk lid, and blacked-out mirror caps and side fender trims.
The updated cabin retains the layout, however, there are some new materials for a more premium feel. The lower section of the steering wheel features a new metallic finish, matching the chrome bezel that now surrounds the instrument pod. The rear-view mirror is now frameless. Depending on the specification, the dashboard and doors are finished with a new contrast stitching, while the centre console is available with aluminum or carbon fibre-like inserts.
Buyers in Korea can specify a new ‘Dark Brown’ monotone interior, with diamond-quilted Nappa leather seats. For global markets, new choices include Nappa leather upholstery finished in Saturn Black, Red or Beige, alongside existing leather and synthetic leather options. A new Saturn Black option finishes the seats in black suede with contrast red stitching in a ‘chain’ pattern, designed to mimic the links in a watch strap.
And of course, there’s an upgraded 10.25-inch touchscreen display with navigation. The cabin also features a new mood lighting system with 64 selectable colors.
The new Stinger will go on sale in Korea during the third quarter of 2020, with sales in global markets to follow later.
Update: Kia Stinger facelift receives a 2.5L T-GDi; more power for 3.3L V6
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