The Stinger is heading to the chopping block after years of proving that even Kia can create a sport-oriented sedan to work with the best. However, the Stinger is not going quietly. Instead, the marque is producing a limited edition Tribute Edition to complement the Kia period. Here’s what you need to know about the end of the Kia Stinger and its Tribute Edition.
Why did the production of the Kia Stinger stop?
The automaker has discontinued the Kia Stinger after 2023 due to a lack of sales. This is a common cause of idle time in the auto industry, and not even Kia’s sports sedans are immune. Accordingly, Kia model sales fell 36% from the third quarter of 2021 to 2022. Numbers like these can easily kill any model.
, and the Chrysler 300 is dying to make room for alternative power options. Furthermore, Mopar models are heading out of production with special editions, just like the Kia Stinger.
How is the Kia Stinger so fast?
Although the Kia Stinger has not sold well in the past two years, its merits as a sports sedan are undeniable. The Kia model can be at straight-line speed, including sports cars and high-performance sedans. Specifically, the Stinger offers two engine options, a 300-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder and a 368-hp 3.3-liter V6.
What’s more, the Stinger GT2 AWD uses the powerful all-wheel drive system to go strong. Accordingly, the V6-powered Stinger GT2 AWD can hit 60 mph in just 4.7 seconds. That’s fast enough to outpace many sports cars like the Ford Mustang EcoBoost and Dodge Charger R/T. Also, the new Stinger Tribute Edition will pack the same twin-turbocharged 3.3-liter V6 to power up the sport sedan model.
Is the Kia Stinger rare?
The Stinger hasn’t sold well, so you’re not likely to see many other sports sedans. However, the new Kia Stinger Tribute Edition is a rarity in every sense of the word. Kia says the marque will only produce 1,000 Tribute Editions, one fewer than the Chrysler 300C and Dodge Charger models’ swan song. The Tribute Edition will pack the two larger Stinger engine options and a new Moonscape Matte Gray paint scheme. Also, numbered door sill plates will let owners know it’s a one-of-a-kind edition when they enter the upgraded cabin.
“The Stinger Tribute Edition marks an important chapter in the story of Kia’s high-performance ethos,” Chang Sung Ryu, Senior Vice President and Head of Purchasing Sub-CX Design, said of the Tribute Edition. While the Stinger didn’t sell well, it’s a shame to see another traditional sports sedan disappear. With any luck, a high-performance hybrid or electrified option will replace it.
Will you miss Stinger? Let us know in the comments below!
