The Kia Stinger’s powerful twin-turbo V6 engine, performance-tuned handling, and all-wheel-drive (AWD) traction helped draw many driving enthusiasts in for a closer look. Clocking 0-100 in about 4.6 seconds, this four-door thrill ride was built for spirited drivers after comfortable cruising and a pleasing performance experience, every day of the year.
The Kia Stinger hit the market for model-year 2018 with an available 3.3-litre twin-turbo V6 engine delivering 365 horsepower, while a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo kicked things off with 255 horsepower. All models ran an eight-speed automatic transmission tuned for smoothness and speed, and both rear-drive and AWD variants were available — though the V6 engine and AWD combination was a Canadian favourite.
Look for a full suite of safety and connectivity features, including Forward Collision Avoidance, adaptive cruise control, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Cross-Traffic Collision Warning, a Head-Up Display (HUD), and more. Premium feature content included a Harman Kardon stereo system, heated and ventilated leather seating with memory, sunroof, aluminum trim, a heated and leather-wrapped flat-bottomed steering wheel, and more.
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2023 Kia Stinger
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$51,995 to $54,795
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A driver performance computer and drive-mode selector helped round out the package. Based on several past test drives of this machine on snow and ice, I can also confirm that an AWD-equipped Stinger on a set of quality winter tires is a riot in the snow.
After its 2018 launch, the Stinger went on until model-year 2022 before a significant update which enhanced its style with bolder looks and new wheels, lights and exhaust tips, a slight power boost to the engine, and a new interior design with upgraded materials, trim, and instrument cluster housing.
Follow the links below for additional features, news, review and specifications on the Kia Stinger, and read on for five tips to help make sure you find the best used model possible for your dollar.
Running costs
2022 Kia Stinger GT Elite Photo by Elle Alder
If the Kia Stinger will be your first venture into the world of performance-car ownership, be sure to understand the maintenance and running costs ahead of your purchase. Note that the cost of tires, brakes and other maintenance and wear items (including fluids and filters) may be more expensive than you’re used to. Maintenance, inspection, and fluid/filter change intervals may be more frequent than you’re used to as well.
Take note of the Kia Stinger’s fuel costs, remembering to feed it pricier 91-octane gasoline for safe turbocharged running. Double-check insurance costs before buying as well. If you’ll be driving your Stinger in the winter, budget for a set of quality winter tires from a reputable brand as well.
- Tires, brakes, and fluids may be pricey.
- Understand fuel, maintenance, and insurance costs before buying.
- High-octane gasoline recommended.
Fuel system problems
2022 Kia Stinger GT Elite Photo by Brian Harper
Some Kia Stinger owners have reported the need to have fuel pumps and sending units replaced, sometimes at low miles. Most have not.
If the fuel pump in the Kia Stinger you’re considering is faulty, it may not send the engine enough fuel. This can result in misfires, hesitation, lumpy or jerky acceleration, stalling or backfiring.
Similar symptoms may also indicate a faulty sending unit whose fuel-level float is stuck, causing an inaccurate fuel level reading. In this situation, the fuel tank may actually be empty and starve the engine of fuel, possibly causing damage to other parts.
Take note of the fuel-level reading when you begin and end your test drive of a used Kia Stinger, and double-check that the engine runs smoothly (especially at full throttle), that no check-engine light (CEL) is illuminated, and that there’s no hesitation or lumpiness to acceleration at lighter throttle inputs.
- Some models had faulty fuel pumps or sending units.
- Check for warning lights and hesitation.
- Take note of fuel-gauge position.
Vibrations
2022 Kia Stinger GT Elite Photo by Elliot Alder
Some owners have reported unwanted vibrations in various situations, including at certain cruising speeds, while turning at low speeds, or while braking.
Vibrations in the used Kia Stinger you’re considering can have various sources, including out-of-balance or damaged wheels, low-quality or improperly-inflated tires, the use of non-factory suspension or driveline components or software tuning, or worn-out brake rotors.
Improperly-fastened lug nuts are a safety hazard, and typically result in vibrations as well.
If you detect a vibration during your test drive, try and isolate its source. Lightly (and then moderately) pressing the brake pedal can coax vibrations from warped brake rotors, indicating that a brake job is in your future. If slipping the vehicle into neutral stops a cruising-speed vibration, the culprit may be a driveshaft or torque-converter problem.
If the vibration is present at all times, wheel or tire problems or damage may be to blame. If in doubt, have a technician check it out before you buy.
- There are numerous sources of vibrations.
- Check tire inflation pressure.
- Warped brake rotors are a likely culprit.
Modifications
2022 Kia Stinger GT Elite Photo by Brian Harper
With standard turbocharged power, the Kia Stinger is a popular candidate for aftermarket tuning and modification. Every day, many owners of modified Stingers enjoy their machines without issue.
Still, certain modifications can cause damage or wear that’s not covered by remaining warranty. Other changes can cause unwanted vibrations, noise, and harshness from the drive, as well as accelerated wear of parts like tires and suspension components.
For best results and maximum peace of mind, the average shopper is best to stick with a used Kia Stinger that’s never been modified with non-factory parts or engine-tuning software.
- Stick to stock for peace of mind.
- Suspension modifications can cause accelerated tire wear.
- Engine- and electronic modifications void warranties.
Warranty
2022 Kia Stinger GT Elite Photo by Elle Alder
The Kia Stinger’s generous warranty was a purchase factor for many shoppers, and if you’re buying a used Stinger with remaining warranty coverage, a few steps are advisable to prevent unfavourable surprises.
Start by confirming that no service or maintenance intervals outlined in the owner’s manual have been skipped or stretched, as your Stinger’s warranty doesn’t cover damage or wear caused by a failure to maintain the vehicle properly.
Ensure you have documentation for all prior servicing including oil changes, as you’ll likely need these in case a future warranty claim is required. Avoiding a used Stinger that’s been modified, or a used Stinger whose service history is unclear, is advisable for best results.
- Familiarize yourself with service records.
- Obtain full documentation.
- Avoid models with unclear service history.
- Stick to stock for best results.
Final thought
These tips are designed to help test driving shoppers more easily identify problems reported by some owners. A careful and attentive test drive that focuses on the areas above can help you find a first-class example of a second-hand Kia Stinger.
Keyword: Used Car Guide: 2018-2023 Kia Stinger