2021 Kia Stinger

The 2021 Kia Stinger is available with two powertrain options. One is more fuel-efficient, and the other offers a more impressive performance. No matter which engine you choose, though, this car is going to feel amazing to drive. 

The Power of the 2.0L Turbo

First, the smaller 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Generating 255 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, this powertrain can accelerate the vehicle from zero to 60 mph in just 5.9 seconds. Equipped with RWD, it has an estimated fuel economy set at 22 MPG in the city, 29 MPG on the highway, and 25 MPG combined.

The Power of the 3.3L V6

On the other hand, you can also opt for the magnanimous 3.3-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine. Also coupled with the 8-speed automatic transmission and RWD, this powertrain produces 365 hp and 376 lb-ft of torque. In track tests, it was able to go from zero to 60 mph in just 4.7 seconds. This engine gets about 17 MPG in the city, 25 MPG on the highway, and 20 MPG combined. You will certainly turn heads when you rev up this engine!

Both of these engines come standard with RWD; however, you can opt for an AWD system that helps with handling, cornering stability, and control when on slippery road conditions. While the AWD system offers some control benefits, the standard RWD models do provide a Limited Slip Differential designed to evenly distribute the power to the wheels to provide more responsive and agile control through corners. Rolling on 19-wheels fitted with Michelin tires, the 2021 Kia Stinger has precise stopping control with the available Brembo brakes. Overall, the performance of this car is unquestionably great. 

The entertainment features on the 2021 Kia Stinger vary depending on the trim level. However, there are few features that every model will come standard with, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. These connectivity features allow for seamless audio and app streaming via advanced smartphone integration. Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and text messaging is also standard.

The Basics of Infotainment 

On the base GT-Line trim, things kick off with the UVO eServices infotainment system displayed on a 7-inch touchscreen. This interface comes with an auxiliary jack, USB ports, and over 130 channels of satellite radio. Dual-zone climate control allows you and the front-seat passenger to control personal temperatures, and the wireless charging pad helps keep the cabin clear of clutter. You can listen to music through the 6-speaker sound system, and you may also use the steering-wheel-mounted audio controls for volume and song selection. Two 12-volt power outlets are also located in the front and back of the cabin, and the front seats are heated. 

Next, the GT gets many of the same features from the GT-Line; however, there are a few small differences. First, the sound system gets three additional speakers for a total of nine. Also, the upholstery has been upgraded to leather-trimmed seating that is still heated. 

Stepping Up the Infotainment

Stepping up to the GT1, you will notice a lot of changes to the entertainment features. The touchscreen interface has been enlarged to 8-inches, and a navigation system has been installed. You won’t have to worry about losing your way in a new city ever again. The sound system gets an upgrade as well. The new Harman Kardon stereo comes with QuantumLogic Premium Audio and Clari-Fi. Featuring 15 speakers, you’ll get to experience studio-quality music during your drive. Furthermore, the leather-trimmed heated seats have also gotten ventilation for cooling during the hot summer months.

Finally, the top-of-the-line GT2 model comes with all of the aforementioned entertainment features. Add in multi-colored LED cabin lighting and upgraded Nappa leather upholstery. Finally, the rear seats are also heated for back-seat passenger comfort during the winter. 

As with the entertainment features, the 2021 Kia Stinger’s safety features vary depending on the trim level. However, every model comes with a rearview camera to help with backing out of tight parking spaces. You won’t have to worry about running over a bicycle or bumping into another vehicle again. 

Basic Safety Features for All

Other standard safety features on every model include full-length side curtain airbags, dual front advanced airbags, dual front seat-mounted side airbags, and driver side knee airbags. Electronic stability/traction control is also included as well as hill start assist control and a tire pressure monitoring system. 

The base GT-Line model comes with the Smart Key system and push-button technology. These two features work hand-in-hand to allow you to lock, unlock, and start the vehicle without ever touching the key. As long as the key fob is on your person, you can perform these tasks. Full power accessories, including one-touch auto up/down windows, are included for easy use. Blindspot collision warning, rear cross-traffic collision warning, and lane-change assist have also been installed to help prevent side-swiping and rear-ending accidents. 

Better than Basic Safety 

Next, the GT adds front and back parking sensors to the mix. Using various sensors around the vehicle, the system will detect if an obstacle is in your path. It will also send an audible alert to prompt you to take evasive action like stopping. An auto-dimming rearview mirror has also been installed to help reduce glare from other vehicles’ headlights. 

Moving up to the GT1, there are quite a few extra safety features that have been added. First, Smart Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go technology allows you to set a precise speed limit and adjust according to the flow of traffic. For example, if traffic begins to slow or even comes to a complete stop, the system will adapt the Kia Stinger's speed or bring it to a halt. Once the pace of traffic has picked up again, the intelligent system will return to the initial set speed limit. Other advanced safety features in this trim include automatic emergency braking, driver attention warning, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, and high beam assist. All of these systems work in unison to help prevent dangerous accidents. 

Lastly, the GT2 model comes with all of the previously mentioned safety systems plus a few more. A head-up display projects vital vehicle information onto the front windshield. This allows you to observe your vehicle’s stats without taking your eyes off the road. Also, a 360° surround-view camera system has been installed. This places cameras all around the Stinger to give you a complete look at your surroundings. You won’t have to worry about causing a fender bender or scratching your vehicle. When it comes to you, your loved ones, and the drivers around you, Kia has made it easy to stay safe.