2021 Kia Stinger GT | Photo: Olivier Delorme
We first got to sample the then all-new 2018 Kia Stinger roughly three and a half years ago. Falling under its spell was easy. The Stinger seemed to offer an answer for requirements, be it speed, power, styling, or creature comforts – it was all contained in a very attractive shell and for sale at a surprisingly affordable price.
Fast-forward to the 2021 model year and, in Canada, the turbocharged Stinger 2.0-litre GT-Line version came and went, little else has happened for the flagship grand touring performance car. The car’s underwhelming sales could possibly explain why it seems like the Stinger’s more or less frozen in time.
Despite entering its fourth model year essentially unchanged, the 2021 Kia Stinger remains astoundingly competent as a road car, a family car, and one that responds quite well to a mild thrashing when need be.
For all its positive attributes, there are certain elements about the Stinger that keep it from the topmost positions on the shopping list, but it’s often on said list. Should the Stinger be given a chance to shine as your latest acquisition? Read on:
It’s difficult to come to a clear-cut conclusion on the Kia Stinger GT. In the past, and this might apply if you’re shopping for a used Stinger, the 4-cylinder version is a no-no. For the size and weight of this car, you are kidding yourself if you think the turbocharged 2.0-litre engine will be enough. It won’t.
Despite the built-in value, the styling, and performance, most would rather pay more for less, or the same for much less so long as there’s a recognized premium brand on the key fob. Funny thing is that, with only 1,500 units sold in Canada on average every year, it will become a future classic. It may even become a preferred used car purchase for young car enthusiasts before long.
But in 2021, should you buy a Kia Stinger GT? It’s like this: We love the Stinger and have since the very beginning. But, for all the above-mentioned reasons, we’d not buy one. We’d not consider leasing one either as, at the time of writing these words, Kia offers no discounts or rebates.
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I bought a Kia stinger GT when it first came out 2018. I still get excited to drive my car every day. It's a blast to drive, super fast and comfortable. I'm probably going keep it for a long time because I'm afraid I won't be able find anything else as fun to drive for the price. If you want something exciting to drive and practical this is the car. My only complaint is that on going through rear tires every 10,000 miles. Probably my fault.