Kia Australia, ahead of the local launch of their Stinger sports saloon, has dropped the veil on exactly what we’ll be getting for our money. Prices, as we’ve revealed previously, will start at $48,990 and stretch to $59,990, and thankfully all models do seem to get some generous equipment levels.
First, let’s get some basic specifications out of the way. Each Stinger will be powered by a 3.3-litre twin-turbocharged V6 engine that generates 272kW and 510Nm, sending power to rearward via an 8-speed automatic transmission and a mechanical limited slip differential. With launch control engaged, and in spite of it lacking the all-wheel drive given to European-spec cars, is said to be capable of the same 4.9 second sprint time to 100km/h.
At the base level, the S variant receives 18-inch wheels that wear Continental ContiSport Contact 5. There are a set of Brembo brakes made uniformacross the range as well, with 350mm rotors at the front and 340mm at the rear. In terms of safety, the S boasts rear cross traffic alert and active hood pedestrian protection, which in addition to expected anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, brake assist, a rear view camera, 7 airbags, and two ISOFIX anchor points.
However, its the mid-range Stinger Si that’ll receive the Autonomous Emergency Braking with Forward Collision Warning and Lane Keep Assist, Driver Attention Alert, front parking sensors (in addition to rear), automatic rain-sensing wipers, and adaptive cruise control.
All Stingers will boast smartphone connectivity through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, however the base S will do so from a 7-inch panel where as the Si and top-spec GT receives an 8-inch alternative with more visual fidelity in addition to a more stronger sound system. The Si also rolls on larger 19-inch wheels that also carry over to the higher grade.
The Stinger GT really does take the equipment levels up a few notches, though, adding Nappa leather upholstery, flat-bottom steering wheel, a 7-inch TFT digital instrument cluster, alloy pedals, suede roof liner and pillar trim, wireless phone charging, and a premium 15-speaker Harman/Kardon audio system.
Kia Motors Australia’s Chief Operating Officer, Damien Meredith, said: “There is a belief that any entry-level model will be, for want of a better description, sparse. That is not the case with the Stinger. […] And there is safety and comfort equipment in this car that you would not normally see in anything but the top of the model range, including satellite navigation. It simply represents outstanding value _ starting with the S but stretching across the range.”
For more on Kia cars, check out our Showroom.
