The Kia Stinger put the South Korean automotive producer on the efficiency automotive map, establishing itself as a critical rival to the Germans with eye-catching styling, nice driving dynamics, and a aggressive value. For the 2021 calendar yr, the Stinger has been up to date and we just lately had the possibility to try it out.

Most readers can be accustomed to the revamped Stinger that’s sold in the U.S. as a 2022 model. Nonetheless, in Australia, it’s badged as a 2021 mannequin and doesn’t have the very same updates because the U.S. mannequin.

Australia Passes On New Engines

The Stinger initially launched with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and a 3.3-liter twin-turbocharged V6 and in most markets, these engines have been changed with the automotive’s mid-cycle facelift. The bottom engine is now a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 300 hp (223 kW) and 311 lb-ft (422 Nm) of torque, a forty five hp soar over the two.0-liter. As well as, the up to date Stinger lands with a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 with 368 hp (274 kW) and 376 lb-ft (510 Nm), a 3 hp achieve over the three.3-liter.

In Australia, issues are somewhat totally different. Kia Australia determined to not replace the engine line-up, which means the two.0-liter and three.3-liter mills stay. As 90 per cent of Stinger gross sales in Australia have been for the three.3-liter, it is smart why the two.5-liter hasn’t been added to the vary. And contemplating the minor positive factors made by the three.5-liter engine over the three.3-liter one, it’s hardly a shock the brand new unit isn’t provided domestically. Nonetheless, some consumers could really feel somewhat cheated the brand new engines aren’t obtainable.

So, What updates Do Aussie Patrons Get For 2021?

Visually, not a lot distinguishes the brand new Kia Stinger from the previous one. Many of the physique panels are the identical and Australia additionally misses out on the up to date Kia badges of different markets. The obvious change is the fitment of re-designed taillights that embody an LED mild bar and switch indicators with 10 small LEDs mimicking the sample of a chequered flag.

As well as, a pair of latest 19-inch alloy wheel designs can be found. The headlights have additionally been tweaked and a handful of new-and-improved security options come as normal. These embody an Autonomous Emergency Braking system that now consists of Bicycle owner Detection and Junction Help which makes use of the entrance digicam and radar to use the brakes if wanted whereas turning throughout oncoming site visitors.

Added Security

Kia has additionally up to date the Lane Preserving Assistant with Street Edge Detection and Lane Following Help. There’s additionally Rear Cross Visitors Collision-Avoidance Help and Blind Spot Collision-Avoidance Help that makes use of the Blind Spot Detection and ESC to forestall collisions with automobiles in different lanes.

Inside, the 2021 Stinger comes normal with a brand new 10.25-inch infotainment sitting atop the dashboard. This method options Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and is maybe the only most vital replace made to the automotive. Not solely does it assist Bluetooth connections for a number of units concurrently however it is usually utilizing a brand new UI much like different Kia, Hyundai, and Genesis fashions. The earlier infotainment system utilized by the Stinger felt dated the day it launched so it is a welcome replace. A brand new ambient lighting system can be normal.

The Meat And Potatoes

The instance we examined was the entry-level 200S and outfitted with the bottom 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. This engine delivers 244 hp (182 kW) at 6,200 rpm and 260 lb-ft (360 Nm) of torque and whereas that’s a way shy of the brand new 2.5-liter obtainable within the U.S., it’s greater than ample for day-to-day driving duties. It returns a claimed 8.8l/100 km (26.7 U.S. mpg) over the mixed cycle, though we averaged a consumption nearer to the 11-liter (21.3 U.S. mpg) mark throughout our week with the automotive.

Coupled to the engine is an eight-speed computerized transmission that sends energy to the rear wheels. The automotive can hit 62 mph (100 km/h) in a good 6 seconds flat and with the launch management system enabled, leaps off the road with a stunning quantity of urgency.

Like different Kia fashions, the 2021 Stinger 200S has a suspension tune tweaked particularly to go well with Australian roads. Kia has carried out such a wonderful job of tuning the suspension that it’s the gentle and supple experience that’s maybe the stand-out function of the Stinger, versus its visible tweaks and security enhancements made for 2021. Whatever the street situations, the Stinger feels comfy and soaks up all inconsistencies.

A Pleasure To Drive

Nonetheless, the Stinger comes alive when pushed onerous. Change the drive mode selector into Sport and you’ll uncover a sports activities sedan that handles its weight (1,758 kg / 3,875 lbs) extraordinarily properly. The steering is exact and the suggestions by means of the wheel is great. Certain, it doesn’t wag its tail in the identical approach that the three.3-liter mannequin does however that doesn’t imply it isn’t enjoyable to hustle by means of the corners.

The ergonomics are equally as spectacular. Just like the pre-facelift mannequin, the driving place of the 2021 Stinger is nice, even for tall drivers. You’ll be able to decrease the motive force’s seat base so low that it nearly feels such as you’re sitting on the ground, whereas the three-spoke steering wheel is comfy and properly thought-out. Nonetheless, because the mannequin we examined was the entry-level Stinger 200S, it didn’t have the identical flat-bottomed steering wheel as different variants, which was a disgrace.

Nonetheless Nice Bang-For-Your-Buck

Australian pricing for the 2021 Kia Stinger begins at AU$50,050 (US$37,954) in 200S type, a determine that rises to AU$55,199 (US$41,859) with on-road prices. Nonetheless, on the time of writing, there was a drive away supply obtainable for AU$54,090 (US$41,018). The Stinger GT-Line, outfitted with the identical 2.0-liter however with extra aggressive styling and different upgrades, begins at AU$57,730 (US$43,778) and is obtainable for AU$61,690 (US$46,781) drive away.

As for the three.3-liter mannequin, the vary begins with the 330S that’s priced at AU$53,830 (US$40,820) or AU$57,890 (US$43,899) drive away and tops out at AU$63,760 (US$48,351), or AU$67,690 (US$51,331) drive away, for the GT.

Learn Additionally: 2022 Kia Stinger Scorpion Special Edition Adds Some Extra Aggression

The Kia Stinger stays as spectacular in the present day because it was when it first launched. It’s wonderful worth for the cash and in Australia, comes normal with a seven-year guarantee, not one thing you can find from its rivals. As it’s unsure whether or not the Stinger will survive for a second generation, now might be the proper time to purchase one.

Photograph Credit: Brad Anderson/CarScoops