The sports sedan segment is one that is always rich with excitement, as these are the cars that enable the driver to experience a very pure and heart-racing connection to the road. The Car and Driver team posted a blog last week taking a close-up look at the 2022 Kia Stinger and were impressed off the bat with an all-wheel-drive option as well as the power derived from the twin-turbo V6. New for the 2022 model year is the mid-level 2.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder, updated exterior lighting elements, new wheel designs, and larger exhaust tips.
Inside there are new metallic trim pieces, adjustable mood lighting, and the available add-on that is moving up higher and higher on wish lists: the 10.3-inch infotainment display. The 8-speed automatic that comes in every Stinger offers up quick shifts and sharp response from the driver-controlled paddles. During this team's track testing the Stinger had the straight-line speed nailed, and was the most fun when pushed heartily to the limit. The Brembo brakes offered on the GT line were impressive, and both rear and all-wheel drive models outperformed their EPA ratings when put to the real-world test.
It was also noted here just how comfortable the rear seat was compared to other cars in this class, and the UVO infotainment system comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as a six-speaker stereo. Wireless smartphone charging and in-dash navigation are available as other upgrades, as well as the benefits of premium audio with the 15-speaker Harmon/Kardon stereo system. You're going to be tempted to drive faster than average straight off the line in a car this sleek, and while no one will blame you for doing so, it's good to know that the Stinger has earned a five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
After just one drive in this car you can see that it is so defining and natural that it helps redline everything the Kia brand stands for, and the note of the new variable exhaust system will wow even those who have experience with well-equipped German and Italian competitors. Also on board for the 2022 model is a safe-exit warning system that quickly alerts passengers of any approaching traffic and the very useful blind-spot monitor that provides a feed of exactly what is approaching in the zone that is always difficult to keep one's eye on. Up front, a curve now replaces the angles at the left and right edge, which adds a touch of visual width and a bit of angling on the headlamps.
The bumper's new lower edge now gives it an appearance a bit like a seasoned rear diffuser, and with larger exhaust tips it comes out of the gate with more of a Le Mans stature and feel. We'd also recommend the upgrade to Nappa leather, which provides a unique soft luxury addition that is nice to have. Staff on duty at TheNewsMarket said that we should also look for remote start as a feature as we anticipate new arrivals here at Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis, and are anxious to continue offering this sporty and engaging sedan!
