AUTOMA ROTBILES
AUTOMOBILES
A Dashing Sports Seda n
Kia’s Stinger
By Aaron R. Fodiman
The clean styling of the Stinger would lead you to believe that it is a luxury cruiser.
The introduction of the Stinger marks a new era and
a major evolution for the Kia automobile brand. The
sophisticated engineering prowess of this vehicle is
paired with a strikingly sharp design and highly refined
performance to create a breathtaking new automobile. It has a
unique combination of features that establishes a new category
for Kia that most did not expect.
The GT model is powered by a twin-turbo, 3.3-liter V6 engine
that has 365 horsepower and can reach 60 miles per hour from
a standing start in only 4.7 seconds, a match for any high
performance vehicle. With a top speed of 167 miles per hour,
this speed demon uses rear-wheeled drive, along with all-wheel
drive, to give you both a thrilling and yet controlled experience
to make it a high performance vehicle at a budget price.
While test driving this car, we did not attempt to replicate the
company’s tests at the infamous Nürburgring track in Germany,
where the car was tuned as it ran the 13-mile, 154-turn racetrack.
130 TAMPA BAY MAGAZINE | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018
Instead, we chose to enjoy the luxury aspects of this new vehicle
that is filled with safety features. The car was comforting to drive,
building a connection between the driver and the road.
However, if you find yourself seeking the type of performance
that could re-awaken your passion for driving, this dashing sports
sedan with European styling has great power that is ideal for
spirited distance driving. You can capture the joy of the journey
due to Kia’s ability to get gran touring to meet the modern age.
Yes, this is a Kia, and since it is not a luxury badge, it might
surprise you with its ability to please. If there were no markings
to indicate the manufacturer, we probably would not have a
clue as to who built this car since every detail from the leather
interior to the crisp styling screams luxury. In addition, the new
engineering accomplishments, such as blind spot warning, backup
cameras and other safety features, are all available. This is a car
that has been designed to be more than competitive at a price
that is clearly a bargain.