Our sensationally sporty and one-of-a-kind Kia Stinger is getting a new special edition called the GTS,
with a few appearance tweaks, and an optional all-wheel-drive system with a
brand-new “Drift Mode”. The GTS as reported on from the folks at Car and
Driver this week will be offered only on a new special-edition model,
which basically amounts to an appearance package for the V-6 Stinger, and also
available in a rear-wheel-drive model. At first glance, the D-AWD doesn't seem
to be too different from the Stinger's already rear-biased optional AWD system,
but its key unique trait is that it has three selectable modes on tap that
control how much torque from the 3.3-liter V6 is fired to the rear wheels.
Using Comfort mode puts the split at 60 percent
rear, Sport mode sends 80 percent, and Drift mode sends 100 percent to the
rear. Stinger models without this system are only capable of sending 80 percent
rearward. GTS D-AWD Stingers also receive a standard limited-slip differential,
previously available only on the RWD Stinger, and Kia says that it has now made
changes to the entire mapping for the transmission, stability control, and
steering to perform right with this new system.
The notion of a drift-oriented all-wheel-drive
system might sound strange given that the standard rear-wheel-drive Stinger
does possess the ability to drift on its own. But it also makes perfect sense
that those who want AWD traction won't have to miss out on any fast-and-furious
acts of lightning-fast speed bursts with the tail all out! The package is
offered up with a special orange exterior color, different badging on the rear
with a GTS emblem and a “Stinger” script taking the place of the traditional
Kia logo, carbon-fiber bits of trim for the mirrors, grille, and side vents;
and faux-suede pieces for the steering wheel, center console, as well as
headliner.
This specially-designed trim is situated in
between the GT and GT1 trims, and is also equipped with a sunroof and
massively-pleasing Harman/Kardon audio system. Motor Authority also
ran a story found here about this GTS package that will absolutely pack
enough punch to “challenge super sedans from across the globe”. They also
claimed that they were definitely blown away with the Stinger's potent
turbocharged engine, and capable chassis that was partly developed and tested
thoroughly at the Nurburgring Nodrschleife.
The drive control software on board has been
updated for generous slip angles, and also incorporates counter-steer
detection. We are beyond excited here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis to see more stories about this aggro
and appealing sedan as next year's model creeps closer: for more from the New
York Auto show, go here and marvel at the oncoming and tech-laden cars of
the future!
