Kia Stinger
Punchy four-cylinder turbo petrol model
BMW, AUDI… OR KIA? Chances are it’s a question that’s never graced your lips before. But that might be about to change, thanks in large part to the Stinger five-door coupé.
In range-topping V6 GT S form, the Stinger is our favourite car in the £40,000-plus executive car bracket, but even the entry-level 2.0 T-GDI Gt-line tested here is distinctly potent, with outputs of 244bhp and 353lb ft of torque from its 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine.
It’s also genuinely good fun to drive fast, with minimal body lean in corners, quick steering and plenty of front-end grip. However, it’s let down slightly by its ride quality; undulating roads cause the body to pitch, while smaller ruts create an audible thump.
Inside, swathes of real metal and leather dominate, and the controls all feel slick, as does the responsive 8.0in touchscreen. On top of this, there’s an extensive standard equipment list that includes dual-zone climate control, leather upholstery, heated and electrically adjustable front seats and a reversing camera.
That said, the faux stitching along the dash looks a little naff, while some of the plastics lower down the dash and doors don’t feel as classy as those of rivals. And while front-seat occupants won’t feel cramped, the rear seats are a bit of a squeeze.
High CO2 emissions mean the 2.0-litre Stinger makes little sense as a company car; the 2.2 diesel would be a better bet if that’s what you’re after. As a private purchase, however, the Stinger in this form is tempting. It’s aggressively priced, so it looks like great value next to rivals such as the Audi A5 Sportback and BMW 4 Series GT.
While the 2.0-litre Stinger lacks some of the aural drama of the more powerful GT S version, it makes more sense, with more than enough punch to entertain, as well as reasonable running costs.
All of which makes this Stinger an interesting alternative – perhaps not classy or well resolved enough to beat its best rivals, but certainly worthy enough for consideration.