It’s no secret that car makers often borrow animal-inspired names for their vehicles. From the Ford Bronco to the Volkswagen Beetle, animals have been a source of inspiration for many automobiles. So, it’s no surprise that many people are wondering if Kia is following suit with their popular Kia Stinger model. Could this sleek and stylish vehicle be named after a bee or another insect?

Cars that are named after insects

When it comes to cars named after insects, there are quite a few popular models that come to mind. The Volkswagen Beetle is probably one of the most iconic examples, which was first introduced in 1938 and still one of the most recognized models. Other notable insect-based car names include the Pontiac Firefly, Hudson Hornet, and Dodge Super Bee. 

The Kia Stinger name 

Is the Kia Stringer really named after an insect or animal of some sort? Well, it turns out that this isn’t the case. Evidently, this name was chosen simply because it sounded flashy and exciting. There doesn’t appear to be any evidence linking the name with an actual bug or insect species. 

The original concept model was called the Kia GT4 Stinger back in 2014. The concept car had a flashy design and plenty of features that made it stand out from its competitors—and those same features were carried over to the production version of the car that was released in 2017.  

The current state of the Kia Stinger 

Unfortunately, the Kia Stinger’s days are numbered; 2023 will be its last model year before production ends completely. If you’re interested in purchasing one before they’re gone forever, then now is your chance.

According to Kia Media, “Beneath the hood resides a tuned version of Kia’s race-proven 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline direct injected (T-GDI) four-cylinder engine, which puts out an impressive 315 horsepower.”

Other standard features include:

• Multi-Reflector Headlights
• A 12-Way Power Driver’s Seat
• Blind Spot Detection Technology
• Auto Emergency Braking Technology
• Leather Seat Trim and Heated Front Seats
• 8-Speed Auto Transmission with Paddle Shifters
• A 10.25-inch Touchscreen Display with Navigation and Kia Connect

If you’d prefer the Tribute Edition, Car and Driver touch on this version’s features,

“The Tribute Edition focuses instead on visual upgrades, available in either Ascot Green or a new Moonscape matte gray paint job. The sideview mirrors, Brembo brake calipers, and 19-inch wheels are all finished in a stealthy gloss black.”

The Kia Stinger isn’t named after an animal after all 

Just because the Kia Stinger didn’t get its name from an animal doesn’t mean it is less attractive! The original concept was simply given this name because it sounded exciting; plus, who doesn’t love driving around in something as slick as a ‘Stinger’?

If you’d like to get your hands on one while they’re still available, then now is going to be a perfect time. Be sure to check out your local dealerships and see what kind of deals you can find on this sleek ride before it becomes extinct.