So, how did a brand like Kia go from selling value-focused econocars to offering a genuine sports sedan? The Kia Stinger GT1 shows just how far the brand has come since its early days in the U.S. market, showcasing its luxury performance chops.
What is it about the 2020 Kia Stinger GT1 trim that’s so special?
For starters, the GT1 ditches the lesser GT-Line’s 4-cylinder engine for a 3.3L twin-turbo V6 with 365 hp and 376 lb-ft of torque on tap. You’ll also get bi-LED headlights, heated and ventilated front seats and navigation.
That’s only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the 2020 Kia Stinger GT1’s features. You’ll find more of the Stinger’s performance, comfort and convenience features in our review, as well as a test drive video from the Bros FOURR Speed YouTube channel.
A Wild Ride with the Stinger GT1
The 2020 Kia Stinger GT1 has all the makings of a sophisticated luxury performance sedan. Like its rivals from BMW and Audi, you have your pick of turbocharged 4-cylinder and 6-cylinder engines along with AWD. Can’t test drive one for yourself? Watch this video and imagine yourself behind the wheel.
Let’s start off with the Stinger GT1’s performance stats. A 3.3L twin-turbo V6 lurks under the hood, generating a healthy 365 hp and 376 lb-ft. Kia pairs this engine with an 8-speed automatic transmission, but steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters let you blip through the gears yourself.
This combination gives the RWD Stinger GT1 (remember, it can be optioned with AWD) a sprightly 0 to 60 mph time of just 4.7 seconds. Put it on a track with a long straight and you’ll reach its top speed of 167 mph.
The GT1 trim also comes with an adaptive suspension that ensures quick handling without the bone-jarring ride expected of sportier vehicles.
A quick walkaround of the 2020 Kia Stinger GT1 shows off its aggressive styling. The sporty black chrome grille deftly hides the front-facing sensor that’s part of the GT1’s driver-assist technology suite, which includes forward collision avoidance and smart cruise control with stop-and-go capability.
LED headlights distinguish the GT1 from the base GT-Line. Meanwhile, the GT1 borrows the striking 19-inch GT-Style alloy wheels featured on the lower-level GT trim. These features, along with optional red Brembo brake calipers and a glass roof with panoramic sunroof, help set this Stinger trim apart from its stablemates.
The interior is definitely what you’d find on typical luxury performance cars. You’ll find leather upholstery on the seats, door trim and the flat-bottom steering wheel. The front seats are heated and ventilated for all-season comfort and the controls fall to hand from the driver’s seat.
With impressive features like a 7-inch display inside the easy-to-read instrument cluster, wireless charging, numerous USB ports, a Harman Kardon sound system with 15 speakers and an 8-inch touch-screen display for navigation and media, the 2020 Kia Stinger GT1 has the tech toys to please discerning buyers.
The Stinger’s hatchback design not only gives it good trunk space, but the 60/40-split rear seat means you’ll have more space for longer items. Rear passengers won’t be left wanting for a lack of headroom or legroom, either.
With an MSRP of around $46,000, the 2020 Kia Stinger GT1 definitely punches above its weight. Given its impressive array of features and performance, it even outshines some more expensive names, including the BMW 4 Series.
Buy with Confidence
The best way to get to know a vehicle is to take it out for a test drive. In the meantime, a Vehicle History report will give you everything you need to know about your next vehicle purchase. Get the latest vehicle specs, reviews and more with your next report.
