Kia Stinger
Used Car Review

Overview

Looking for a sports saloon that won’t break the bank? The Kia Stinger might be exactly what you need. This bold four-door fastback brings genuine performance credentials to the executive car segment without the premium price tag. It’s the car for drivers who want BMW 3 Series thrills but appreciate Korean value and reliability.

From first glance, the Stinger commands attention with its aggressive styling and distinctive fastback silhouette. The long bonnet and muscular haunches give it serious road presence that rivals like the BMW 3 Series struggle to match at this price point. Step inside and you’ll find a surprisingly upmarket cabin with quality materials and intuitive technology. The driving position feels properly sporty, yet comfortable enough for long journeys.

Behind the wheel, the Stinger delivers on its bold looks with genuinely engaging performance. The turbocharged engines provide strong acceleration while the rear wheel drive setup offers proper sports saloon dynamics. It handles with confidence and precision, making every journey feel involving. While it may not have the badge prestige of German rivals, the Stinger offers remarkable value for money and comes with Kia’s excellent seven year warranty for peace of mind.

What's the Kia Stinger Like to Drive?

The Kia Stinger is designed to be a genuine sports saloon, not just a dressed up family car. Two turbocharged petrol engines are available, both delivering impressive performance. The 2.0 litre four cylinder produces 244bhp and accelerates from 0 to 60mph in just 5.8 seconds. For serious performance, the 3.3 litre V6 delivers 365bhp and rockets to 60mph in an exhilarating 4.7 seconds.

What makes the Stinger special is its rear wheel drive setup and sophisticated chassis tuning. The steering is precise and communicative, giving you real confidence through corners. The suspension strikes an excellent balance between comfort and control, soaking up bumps while keeping body roll in check. Unlike front wheel drive executive saloons, the Stinger feels properly balanced and engaging. It’s a car that encourages spirited driving while remaining refined enough for daily commuting.

Inside the Kia Stinger: Comfort & Features

Open the door and the Stinger’s cabin immediately impresses with its blend of sportiness and sophistication. The dashboard design is clean and modern, dominated by an 8 inch touchscreen infotainment system. Material quality is genuinely impressive for the price, with soft touch plastics and well finished trim pieces throughout. The sports seats provide excellent support during spirited driving while remaining comfortable on longer journeys.

Front seat occupants get plenty of space and adjustment to find the perfect driving position. Road and wind noise are well controlled, creating a refined atmosphere that makes motorway cruising relaxing. Standard equipment is generous, including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a decent sound system. Higher specification GT models add features like heated and ventilated leather seats, premium audio, and ambient lighting that enhance the upmarket feel even further.

The Kia Stinger succeeds brilliantly as an affordable sports saloon that delivers genuine driving thrills. Its powerful engines, rear wheel drive dynamics, and engaging handling make it a compelling alternative to more expensive German rivals. The stylish exterior and well equipped interior add to its appeal, while Kia’s excellent warranty provides reassurance about long term ownership.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

How Much Does It Cost to Run a Kia Stinger?

As a performance focused saloon, the Stinger has higher running costs than mainstream family cars but remains competitive within its segment. The 2.0 litre engine returns around 32-35mpg in real world driving, while the V6 drops to approximately 28-30mpg. Insurance groups are higher due to the performance capabilities, typically falling into groups 35-45 depending on the specific model.

The main advantage is the competitive purchase price compared to German rivals. A well equipped Stinger costs significantly less than an equivalent BMW 3 Series or Mercedes C Class. Kia’s seven year warranty provides excellent peace of mind and helps protect against unexpected repair bills. Servicing costs are reasonable, and Kia’s growing dealer network makes maintenance convenient. While fuel and insurance costs are higher than average, the strong performance and equipment levels help justify the expense for driving enthusiasts seeking car finance options.

Kia Stinger Practicality & Boot Space

For a sports saloon, the Kia Stinger offers impressive everyday usability. The 406 litre boot provides decent cargo space for luggage or shopping, though it’s not quite as large as some traditional saloons. The wide opening hatchback design makes loading bulky items easier than a conventional boot. Rear seats fold down to expand storage when needed, adding versatility for longer items.

Inside the cabin, rear seat passengers get reasonable space for adults on shorter journeys, though taller passengers might find legroom a bit tight on longer trips. The sloping roofline does compromise headroom slightly in the back. For couples or small families who prioritise driving enjoyment, the Stinger strikes a good balance. It’s practical enough for daily life while offering the performance and style that sets it apart from mainstream used Kia cars. The rear wheel drive layout does eat into interior space compared to front wheel drive rivals.

The Kia Stinger stands out in the executive car market by offering genuine sports saloon performance at an accessible price point. It combines powerful turbocharged engines, rear wheel drive dynamics, and engaging handling with practical everyday usability. While it may not carry a premium German badge, it delivers the driving experience that matters most to enthusiasts.

You choose the Stinger because you want a car that makes every journey special without breaking the bank. Its bold styling, well appointed interior, and impressive performance make it a standout choice in the segment. It’s perfectly suited for drivers who prioritise driving enjoyment while still needing practical transport. If you’re seeking an executive saloon that offers genuine thrills and excellent bad credit car finance availability, the Kia Stinger should top your shortlist.