According to reports, the twin-turbo V6 will get a power boost.
The Stinger was first shown by the avant-garde GT Concept back in 2011. It was never considered by Kia’s top brass as a model that could be a bestseller. It serves as the company’s halo model, showing that the once modest South Korean brand can compete with more established German premium sports sedans.
Although the Stinger has not set a sales target, it seems that the low demand for the performance boostback could mean the end to the model’s first generation. The reports say that the Stinger is in decline, but the car is preparing for mid-cycle changes. The prototype was tested in Europe by our spy team while we were wearing camo. However, the changes will not be obvious.
We hope that styling tweaks to the Stinger will be kept to a minimum, as it remains one of the most appealing models in its class. The GT prototype looks very similar to the current model. However, there may be some cosmetic changes underneath the mascara. Some prototypes were actually spotted in South Korea recently, with slightly modified graphics for LED taillights and headlights. There are likely to be minor changes to the bumpers as well as new alloy wheel designs, but nothing that is spectacular.
The most significant changes to interior will be to the infotainment and driver’s displays. The former will grow to 10.25 inches, while the latter will be completely digital. Kia can improve the interior with additional upholstery and trim options, as well as adding the latest tech to its BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe rival.
Under the hood, big changes are expected. The twin-turbo V6 engine of 3.3-liters will be reportedly mated to produce more power. According to the rumors, the output will rise from the current 376 horsepower (376 Newton-meters) and 365 horsepower (365 hp), to a yet to be confirmed 380 hp (390 lb-ft) and 528 Nm (528 Nm). The Stinger GT will also feature a variable exhaust system that can be adjusted to change the engine’s note according to demand.
The Stinger will be introduced in Kia’s domestic market in July – where it sports a special E badge. It’s possible that the regular version will be updated with a turbocharged 2.5 liter engine. This is likely to be the same engine found in the Hyundai Sonata, which is expected to produce 290 hp (420 Nm) and 310 lbft (310 lb-ft).