You don’t really see many Kia Stingers around, which is a shame because it’s a very good looking and highly practical hatchback, and arguably a very cost-effective alternative to the Audi A7. Well…we say cost-effective. With a starting price of £32,000 (and probably set to rise by a few quid with this update) it’s not a cheap car. Audi A7 prices start closer to £50,000, though.
So, the changes. The fastback gets tweaks that, according to Kia, “amplify its gran Turismo character,” which doesn’t really mean much if you think about it, but it does look a bit nicer now. Different, anyway. The shape of the headlamps is changed a bit, including altering the flow of the LED DRLs (daytime running lights), as well as making the lamps darker for a more aggressive look.
Around the back the LEDs are also of a different shape, including a light signature that now extends the width of the car. The indicators are now arranged like a chequered flag too, which Kia helpfully reminds us is “used in motorsport to signal the end of a race”. In addition, GT Line models get wider bore exit pipes for the exhaust system and a new rear diffuser. New sets of 18- and 19-inch alloy wheels are available now too, featuring “intricate geometric designs”.
Buyers are treated to a higher quality cabin, mostly by way of slightly improved materials. The basic architecture is as was but the steering wheel now gets a metallic section in the lower half, the bezel for the digital instrument cluster is chrome and the rear view mirror is frameless.
Higher level cars get contrasting stitching for some of the trim, gloss black panels and a new mood lighting setup comprising 64 colours.
Here are some words from a man at Kia, as is statutory when announcing a model update. He’s called Karim Habib and he’s Senior Vice President and Head of Kia Global Design. Sounds important. We reckon his Stinger has 19-inch wheels. He said: “The Stinger projects an air of elegance and comfort, and also great purpose, for long distance driving. The updated model builds on the svelte gran turismo design we introduced three years ago with modern flair and a subtle hint of aggression to enhance its on-road presence.
“The interior, too, has been enhanced, and the new design elements and technologies incorporated into the Stinger reconfirm its credentials as the consummate grand tourer.”
UK specification and pricing isn’t finalised yet, but when it is we’ll let you know how much it’ll cost and when it goes on sale. Our guess is October.
Keyword: Kia updates the Stinger, now looks even better