Unfortunately, the 2022 Kia Stinger is likely dead in the luxury car waters. It’s a highly competitive segment, and the Kia Stinger, especially in its GT form, was a bold new entrant to the segment when it debuted in 2017. While it was well-received by media outlets, the Stinger simply couldn’t hack it.

Recently, reports from multiple media outlets and blogs have said that Kia will be axing the Stinger. Frankly, that’s a crying shame because the 2022 Kia Stinger is a fantastic car at a bargain price.

Is the 2022 Kia Stinger worth it?

So, speaking of bargains, let’s start with the price. The full-fat 2022 Kia Stinger in GT flavor will run you $37,125. The Audi S Line-esque GT-Line will run you a little less at $36,090. Honestly, for such a fractional difference in price, you’ll want the full-on GT. It’s just a better car with better bits on it than the GT-Line.

For your $37,125 you get a lot of car. However, keep in mind that with options, your GT will easily end up right around $50,000, as Car and Driver’s did. Even at that price point, 365 hp and 376 lb-ft is a lot of get up and go. We’re in BMW M340i territory here, and that thing is sports sedan royalty at this point. On power-per-dollar alone, the Stinger is worth it.

The Stinger is the less-obvious choice for all the right reasons

Then there’s the philosophic point of view. The 2022 Kia Stinger isn’t everyone’s first choice (which is why it’ll likely be getting the ax) but it’s mine. I live near one of the wealthiest suburbs in America, and I see brand-new sports cars on the regular. Over the last month, I’ve seen one Stinger. People don’t want that Kia badge, they want the BMW luxury car vibe at any cost.

And with an interior that’s 99% of the way to a $60,000 or even $70,000 car? No brainer. Plus, you get Kia’s insane 10 year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. So, while your neighbor’s Mercedes-Benz CLA AMG is in the shop (it will be), you can be out running errands and filling that practical liftback boot with all sorts of crap.

Could the Stinger live on?

Now, it’s possible the Stinger could live on. Kia needs a halo car, something at the top of the tree. The brand is pretty clear that it can’t be the excellent Kia Telluride. It’s got to be something fast. And the 2022 Kia Stinger is fast, GT trim or not. Honestly, much of Kia’s lineup (and Genesis while we’re at it) is shaping up to be so much more than the plucky underdog. Let’s hope that Kia keeps the Stinger around long enough for it to reap what it’s sown.