When Kia unveiled the Stinger, the company made it clear that it could build a sports sedan. In fact, the 2022 Kia Stinger has a Consumer Reports recommendation as number eight in the luxury compact cars category. However, Audi has long established itself as a force within that category, especially with the A4. So in a comparison between the 2022 Audi A4 and the 2022 Kia Stinger, can Kia step up to Audi?

2022 Audi A4 is a refined car with a superb, albeit complicated infotainment system

If Audi has something to brag about, and it has many, it is interior fit and finish. The 2022 Audi A4 has a subtle, modern interior design second only to the Mercedes-Benz C-Class in the segment. The A4 also defeats road and tire noise well, meaning the 2.0L powerplant will be the most present soundtrack.

The 2022 Audi A4 is a comfortable ride as well, says Consumer Reports. The suspension does an admirable job of soaking up road imperfections. In addition to the ride’s comfort, the A4 retains its rigidity despite the use of lightweight aluminum structuring. That means the A4 is as composed while cornering as driving on bumpy roads.

The centerpiece of the stylish interior is the infotainment system, which provides comprehensive functionality. The system interacts with the virtual cockpit, which places information right in front of the driver. However, Consumer Reports says that the infotainment system is a bit daunting at first and takes time to learn like any new technology.

2022 Audi A4 is a luxury car with canyon carving credentials

The handsomely styled A4 is not just a comfortable means to get around, it’s also a fun, fast car. The Audi packs a 2.0L turbocharged engine which sends power to Audi’s tenured AWD system. Additionally, in track tests, operators stated that the Audi handled corners eagerly, without understeer, and with confidence-inspiring exits. Finally, considering the engine and AWD system, the reported 27 mpg combined is respectable.

2022 Kia Stinger is a comfortable option for those looking to pick up a sports sedan

The Kia Stinger features good fit and finish but is not quite up to Audi standards. Materials in the Stinger are nice, and exposed stitching is aesthetically pleasing. While the 2022 Audi A4 soaked up bumps, the Stinger reportedly redirects those bumps as jolts to the driver. Additionally, the Kia Stinger fails to subdue road noise as effectively as the A4, while the engine noise from the four-cylinder engine is pleasant.

2022 Kia Stinger has confidence-inspiring handling, if lackluster straight-line performance

The Kia Stinger has a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine and eight-speed automatic transmission. While that sounds like enough, the Stinger required 7.5 seconds to hit 60 mph. That is sluggish compared to competitors in the segment like the Audi A4. Customers can opt for the Stinger GT, which utilizes a V6 engine producing 368 horsepower and available AWD. Although drivers purchasing a GT can expect higher price tags and fuel consumption.

However, Consumer Reports found the handling to be much more enjoyable. The Stinger is reportedly agile, handling corners with confidence-inspiring feedback. Furthermore, the Kia model features handling tunability with changeable driving modes. Even the base model Kia Stinger is a track-happy car.

Which car should you buy, then? The 2022 Audi A4 or the 2022 Kia Stinger?

The Kia Stinger and Audi A4 are sports sedans with front-seat comfort for all-day driving. Additionally, both cars are available in more performance-oriented formats: the Audi S4 and the Kia Stinger GT. However, given the 85 points and number two spot on Consumer Reports’ list, the 2022 Audi A4 is the clear winner. The Audi is faster, more composed, better looking, and more economical.