Having grown up in the 80’s, getting my drivers license during an era when Kia and Hyundai were know for reliability issues and poor performance, I was amazed by the Stinger GT whitepaper specifications and professional reviews.
Having recently purchased a 2019 GT1 as a result and having time to compile my initial thoughts after my brief ownership, I can see a long lasting relationship forming here. Granted my automobile insurance increased by 35% and my oil changes will run me around $100, but this car provides me with 365hp and 370 ft/lbs of torque on hand mated to a remarkably responsive 8 speed automatic transmission propelling me from 0-60 in 4.6 seconds.
Coming from a 2014 Nissan Maxima to this was a huge step up. Astetics inside and out are phenomenal. Outside, my GT1 is gorgeous; aggressive and sleek styling, sexy 19 inch rims wrapped in low profile rubber. My only complaint on the exterior is the Kia badging which had a dated look. I am not knocking the brand itself but the badging needs a makeover.
The interior is superb. My GT1 has the standard leather seats which my wife says are too hard – she is more used to the seating in her Suvurban. For me, I think they are perfect – extremely adjustable and they form to the contour of my body. The finish on the inside is with high grade materials giving a high grade look. Fitment of the parts shows proper alignment leaving me nothing to nit pick.
The tech within this automobile blows me away. Safety features galore, configurable vehicle, nav, audio, display, lighting, and many more areas can be tweaked to your liking.
The driving experience is great. While some comment on how small the rear window is, it does not appear to be a problem for me and my 6’1 body. Blind spots are less than my previous Nissan Maxima and the safety features help fill the gaps where the minor blind spots do exist. I feel like I command the road when driving this car. Acceleration is fantastic, steering is crisp and responsive. The car has that solid luxury feel while driving.
In summary, this is a fantastic car that deserves to be driven. I suggest anyone considering buying to test drive immediately. You. An take the time to compare to r manufacturers but you will not find the matched value or performance anywhere.
| EPA Classification | Large Cars |
| MPG/MPGe | 29 Highway / 21 City |
| Engine | Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4 2.0L/122 cu in |
| Transmission | Automatic w/OD |
| Drive Train | All Wheel Drive |
| Seating | 5 |
| Horsepower | 255 |
