The Kia Stinger is a special vehicle, probably always destined for a short run. It’s the type of car enthusiasts pine for but which automakers have a hard time justifying (and selling). So, after a run of just six years, Kia has reportedly canceled its passion project. But car shoppers will get one last chance to buy it before it’s gone, and their options will include a limited-run Tribute Edition.
A Daily Driver for Those Who Love Their Daily Drive
In case you have no idea what we’re talking about, the Stinger is a rear-wheel-drive (optional all-wheel-drive) sport sedan with family living space and serious performance chops. It features a 300-horsepower turbocharged 4-cylinder engine or a 368-hp 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6. Power goes through an 8-speed automatic transmission.
That description would fit a lot of luxury European sport sedans. But the Stinger starts at just under $37,000 — less than most of those same sedans — and is easy to live with as a daily driver for a harried parent.
There’s nothing quite like it on the market. That may have been a sign.
A Goodbye Edition in Signature Colors
Kia has put together a Tribute Edition for the Stinger’s last run. While we don’t know the price, production will be limited to 1,000 units globally.
It gets the more powerful engine, Brembo brake calipers, and 19-inch wheels finished in gloss black. Buyers can choose from two colors — a matte gray Kia calls “Moonscape” or a deep Ascot Green that almost impedes on British racing green territory. Inside, chestnut brown leather stands out against the carbon fiber-look trim (you don’t get real carbon fiber at this price).
The headrests, Kia says, get a new “wasp-shaped emblem.” The company didn’t provide a photo, so you’ll have to use your imagination.
Kia’s Not Giving Up on Fun-to-Drive Cars
The Stinger’s disappearance doesn’t mean Kia will never give car enthusiasts what they want again. Kia design lead Chang Sung Ryu tells us how the company “will satisfy the needs of customers who seek to enjoy elevated levels of dynamic driving pleasure through high-performance electrified models such as the EV6 GT.”
It’s not a bad plan, as our Mike Danger can attest. He recently took the EV6 GT out on the track for testing. See his first drive here.
