2021 Kia Stinger Fully Detailed In Korea, Gains New Tech, Refreshed Looks And 3 Extra HP

Kia’s high-performance fastback, the Stinger, has been refreshed to the tune of a couple of new design packages, upgraded on-board tech and enhanced safety features.

The Stinger now comes with an improved 3.3-liter T-GDi V6 unit, which features a new Electronic Variable Exhaust Valve system for a deeper note in Sport modes, and a quieter one in Eco or Comfort mode. You also get an extra 3 horsepower for a total of 368 HP (373 PS).

The twin turbo V6 unit comes paired to an eight-speed automatic gearbox, which Kia believes matches the Stinger’s “gran turismo” personality. “The Stinger remains the standard-bearer for the Kia brand, almost a decade after we first revealed the Kia GT Concept in 2011. It remains our most driver-focused car, and is capable of covering great distances in comfort and style,” said Hyundai Motor Corp exec Thomas Schemera.

“The upgraded model builds on the Stinger’s well-established grand touring ethos, with a renewed sense of design flair, new powertrains and technologies, and greater usability enhancing its appeal for buyers in markets around the world.”

Inside, you’ve got a new 8.0-inch touchscreen display with a narrow bezel design (instead of the old 7.0-inch one), but you can also opt for the optional 10.25-inch screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. Meanwhile, the standard 3.5-inch mono-TFT gauge cluster has now been replaced by a larger 4.2-inch color LCD one, while a fully-digital 7.0-inch cluster can also be specified.

Other novelties include the Stinger’s ‘connected car’ features, such as Remote Engine Start, while some markets will even let you pre-activate your Stinger’s seat heating and ventilation functions remotely.

Aside from its old driver assistance features, the 2021 Stinger now comes with Safe Exit Warning, Blind-Spot View Monitor with a wider viewing angle, Lane Follow Assist, Highway Driving Assist, and Rear Occupant Alert.

As for its visuals, the updated Stinger boasts tweaked headlights and new taillights (with a full-width LED light bar), two new 18- and 19-inch wheel designs, and two new exterior packages. There’s the Dark Package (gloss black diffuser surround, black muffler tips, black Stinger emblem) and Black Package (19-inch matte black wheels, new trunk lid lip spoiler, blacked-out mirror caps and side fender trim).

The revised Kia Stinger will go on sale globally following its Q3 debut in South Korea this year.

Note: The Korean market Stinger pictured here has unique badges that will be replaced with Kia’s traditional logo in export markets