The 2022 Kia Stinger’s Powertrain Is Dramatically Better in Every Way
When you want a fuel-efficient sedan, you might assume your choices are limited to less powerful options. After all, powerful powertrains don’t typically equate with sensible fuel economy. But what if you could have the best of both worlds? Get excited about the 2022 Kia Stinger.
Some changes are coming to the already impressive Kia Stinger in 2022. These updates translate to both pavement-chomping performance and attractive efficiencies. And if the 2021 Kia Stinger offers any indication of what else you can expect from the upcoming 2022 model, be prepared for near-premium level experiences too.
The 2022 Kia Stinger makes powertrain changes
One of the most notable and exciting upgrades you can expect with the 2022 Kia Stinger is its powertrain. Kia is leaving the 2.0-liter I-4 behind and bringing in a more robust turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder. This new variation harnesses 300 hp and brings 311 lb-ft of torque for serious off-the-line getup. That’s 45 additional horsepower from the outgoing version, according to MotorTrend.
And for anyone concerned about gas mileage, the EPA says this new powertrain achieves 25 mpg combined, rating 22 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. In an effort to please those who crave even more performance, there will also be a gutsy twin-turbo V6 available with 368 hp.
The effects of all-wheel drive
The 2022 Kia Stinger will still have a standard rear-wheel-drive configuration. However, in 2022, the Stinger will also offer an available all-wheel-drive version.
Opting for the AWD on the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine will still be attractive at the gas pump too. The fuel economy with AWD will drop but still be relatively efficient at 24 mpg combined.
What we know about the 2021 Kia Stinger
Just because there are significant improvements on the 2022 Kia Stinger doesn’t mean there was anything wrong with this year’s model. The 2021 Kia Stinger is a sporty and stylish offering, with a near-premium interior, according to Edmunds. The 2021 Stinger’s price range is $33,090 to $52,590. With an upgraded powertrain, the 2022 Kia Stinger might come in at a slightly higher range. But its efficiencies could be well worth it.
Expect the 2022 model to fall in line with similar trims of today: the GT-Line, GT, GT1, and the GT2. And considering the entry-level Stinger still comes with leather, heated front seats, 18-inch alloy wheels, and a wireless charging pad, the 2022 Stinger will likely follow suit. And the driver assistance features will continue to be hefty and include rear parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring systems, and rear cross-traffic alerts.
Anticipating the 2022 Kia Stinger
Car and Driver offers insights about the 2022 Kia Stinger. The team suggests this new powertrain is powerful, and much like the popular Kia Telluride SUV, the Kia Stinger is another quasi-luxury entry in the portfolio.
Kia Motors America, Inc. says this impressive new Stinger will have a starting MSRP of $36,090, making it even more impressive to consumer bank accounts. And the Executive Director with Car Product & Telematics for Kia is quoted as saying, “no detail was too small to be obsessed over.”
The 2021 Kia Stinger is already an impressive yet practical option for car buyers. But it may be worth sampling the 2022 Stinger instead. The sheer performance and fuel efficiency upgrades alone might be the value proposition you need to make your final purchasing decision.
There are rumors that a special edition Scorpion version of the 2022 Stinger, will become available this fall as well. You may decide to stick around for that introduction if special editions are your jam.
