Kia Stinger GTS Debuts with New AWD System and Drift Mode
In addition to the spicy-hot HabaNiro concept, Kia made sure to turn heads at the 2019 New York Auto Show with the launch of the special-edition Stinger GTS.
Albert Biermann, Kia’s head of research and development, saw a tiny gap to exploit between the AWD-equipped and RWD-equipped Stinger GT models, so he and his team worked on a new version of the Stinger’s all-wheel-drive system peppered with rear-wheel drive DNA.
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Dubbed “Dynamic All-Wheel Drive” (D-AWD), the system incorporates a mechanical limited-slip rear differential to enhance traction and distribute power more evenly between the rear wheels when slip is detected. Drivers have three different modes to choose from: Comfort (up to 60 percent of the available power is sent to the rear), Sport (80 percent) and Drift (100 percent). The latter also holds gears without upshifting.
Note that the Stinger GTS is available with standard RWD, too. As for the twin-turbo 3.3-litre V6 under the hood, it continues to deliver 365 horsepower and 376 pound-feet of torque in the limited edition.
Impossible to Miss
Aside from the trick D-AWD system, the Kia Stinger GTS stands out with a number of sport-inspired styling elements including genuine carbon fibre parts (on the grille, mirror caps and side vents) and a splashy new orange paint that draws even more attention. In the rear, there’s a GTS badge along with a centre-mounted Stinger emblem replacing the Kia logo on the trunk lid.
The interior adds Alcantara on the steering wheel and centre console, plus a suede-like material called Chamude on the headliner. Also, you can take a break from listening to the engine with the 720-watt Harman/Kardon premium audio system.
The Kia Stinger GTS is scheduled to enter production this spring. Canadian availability has yet to be confirmed. However, Kia Canada has announced a new Stinger 20th Anniversary model limited to 150 units and priced at $51,495, featuring a unique combination of a Phantom Grey exterior and Red Nappa leather interior.