Great unbiased review from the RUclipsr former known as WRXFAN. But really watch almost all your reviews and I look forward to more Bullitt Mustang videos too. Thanks for doing what you do Matt.
I own the 2.0 awd, turbos are a problem most people run up on them and they get shity gas mileage. I tried this in three different drive modes on the highway with cruise. If you keep it in economy like I did for about 70 miles , I got 39 miles to the gallon. Comfort mode which is your default mode every time you start the vehicle I was averaging 34, in sport mode which holds the revs longer and typically drives at a higher RPM on the same road for about 50 miles I got about 31 miles to the gallon. My cruise was set at 70 miles an hour. When I do a mixture of city and highway, I will change it from comfort to sport just depending on my needs and I will average about 25 miles to the gallon. Now if I feel like being Mario Andretti I'll leave it in sport mode and then that's when I'll get the crappy fuel mileage at around 19. It's a turbo so the harder you step on it the more it's going to suck down that premium fuel. I didn't buy it for the fuel mileage, I bought it for the car. I paid about 31k out the door, and at this price point it's the best vehicle you can buy.
Great review Tysm , I’m looking to get a GtS in that crazy orange , I’m gonna test drive the 2.0 turbo , I can’t afford the speeding tickets when there’s cameras at every light !!!
@@jirule1 If you want something smaller / more fun, go with the S3. If you want something better to live with as in ride quality , features and room, go with Stinger. You won't be disappointed with either car.
I drove the 2.0T RWD version of the Stinger and I fell in love with it. It reminded me of the my 93 240sx I used to have and I had so much fun driving it and brought a smile to my face. I'm considering the Stinger as my next vehicle soon. Matt is right, test drive one and experience the Stinger.
This car is really brilliant! The base Stinger is a great alternative to the Camry or Accord in terms of features and pricing, but it will be much cooler and fun to drive. Whereas the Stinger GT is a great choice for anyone looking at an Audi A5, since it gives you a really nice car with far better performance for similar money. Kudos to Kia!
I remember when you first got your brz!! And when you had to sell it because of financial issues If i remember correctly. And when you got your mustang !!! God those were the good old days when I was young ! I remember always wanting a brz because of you ! Keep up the good work man I’m glad to have re stumbled upon your channel again. :)
Damn I miss ur subaruwrx fan intro that really made you more unique I cant wait for the day I click on one of your videos and see a awesome new intro like your previous ones good job regardless Matt
Really nice video. I like the way you can still get excited when driving a non performance car. And the way you keep it real with your real life weekly drive. Thanks for what you do.
Matt, I would love to know which car you believe to be better, the premium 2.0 Stinger or the 2018 2.0 Honda Accord Touring. I am looking at both as they are similarly priced. Thanks!!
Excellent review! I love your honesy and enthusiasm. Kia (and sister company Hyundai) is on to something excellent. Even the base '19 Forte is a much better package than most would expect in this price category. The '19 Forte needs the 1.6L corporate turbo and that dual clutch 7-speed auto that Hyundai uses in the Elantra Sport in the upper level range. Kia and Hyundai also needs to equip all mid and upper range autos with LED daytime running lights as well as low and high beam lights. Winner!!!
Btw i have over 110k miles on my 11 wrx and have had no reliability issues. The reliabilty problems with the ej motor gets blown out of proportion from the research i have done..most likely a combination of people modding/abusing them and or not knowing how to take care of a boxer motor.
I bought a '18 Stinger Base AWD. I couldn't stand the halogen headlights either. I bought LED replacement bulbs fairly cheaply and it changed the look dramatically to me. It was a bit surprising KIA wouldn't make that change theirselves. I guess that's why it is the base model though. Certainly can't complain with all the other things that are included in the base model. I would like to upgrade to the premium headlights if it can be done at some point. They do have a much more aggressive look. Great review, there are not enough out there regarding the 2.0t!
@@Drip2SG I got rid of it a few years ago. I had to upgrade to a truck. I never had an issue with the car in the nearly 3 years I had it. I got it up to 40k miles.
As I have mentioned in your two Stinger GT video and other videos that other reviewers have put out the Kia Stinger is MY FAVORITE car to come out in the last two years maybe longer. Ever since I saw your video from the reveal at the Auto Show I have fell in love with the styling (unlike the opposite on the meter in the Kia Soul), it is just so dang sexy, the performance that most including yourself have GLOWED about in now both engine options, the Speedback type hatch design for utility and so on and so forth. I just wish they had a couple more color choices, instead of just Red, White and Blue (very Patriotic) as well as grey and black. There is one GT in a Nardo grey like color and it is sharp though, but if I was able to get one, I would probably go with the 1st of 3 levels of the GT with AWD since I live about 2 hours south of Pittsburgh in West Virginia and it reduced the cost of getting into that 3.3 TT V6. I know that you have made a couple videos on how you will survive and drive in the winter, with the press cars and your wife's car as the Bullitt will sit on snowy salt covered days. But I bet if you had to have another vehicle for winter I can see you getting the GT with AWD, not sure which of the 3 levels though. It has AWD for the winter, yet still be extremely fun to drive ALL YEAR around not like a standard "boring" Ford Escape or other CUV. Thanks for sharing your thoughts once again, always a great watch. :)
Thanks Forrest! Once I need a 4 door car when I have kids eventually, I'll most likely get a Stinger GT in GT1 trim. Don't need the tech of the GT2 trim and it's a good bit cheaper.
@@MattMaranMotoring you are quite welcome, yeah I remember that being a reason that you haven't gotten a 4 door car and enjoy the full on sport coupe life while you can. I am single with no kids, but the reason I like 4 door cars is for those times when I do go out with friends and we all jump in one car, makes it easier. I remember a couple years ago looking for and wondering if there was a sporty fun 4 door car under 50k New beside the Dodge Charger, well Kia answered that question for me with that Sexy Stinger. Nice choice and I agree I made a GT0 AWD on the configurator and it was 44k including destination vs the 52k for the GT2. Thanks for replying Matt. :)
Few interior distractions, fair price (for the base model), turbocharged engine, AWD, manual, and a comparatively smaller vehicle, the WRX takes the cake for me!
Not bad. Hopefully kia will give the Stinger the upcoming 2.5t 4 cylinder for the refresh. It's nice to know that launch control is standard on all Stingers.
Surprisingly I would and a lot of my friends would too (young musicians). It's just more practical than a WRX (hatchbacks are nice for my amps,guitars, and gear etc) and I can haul my friends out to the club if I needed to. The great thing about this car is the fuel economy. It's just much more better than a suv or ugly minivan. Hopefully they're selling them for a couple of grand less than the msrp.
TheHvk Wouldn’t say that per say, it’s just when people ask what kind of car you do you drive, you have to tell them you drive a Kia. It’s a cool car for sure, but the brand has zero clout in the car scene.
@@xchrono8811 That's fine, I don't care what people think. KIA makes good cars at a great price now. I couldn't give a shit about the brand prestige. Let the fools go bankrupt trying to maintain an image driving a BMW or Audi that costs an arm and a leg to repair. The fact that KIA even made this shows they'll have some clout in the automotive world soon enough. Genesis will be big too someday also. Make a GOOD CAR and people will come! If a new Genesis coupe comes out in the next 4-5 years I'll be all over it.
I have no idea what the aftermarket sector is for this car but I'm sure a tune would go a long way right off the bat. Maybe change the BOV configuration for fun with the tune lol love the look of this car though for sure. great video!
I was in the market for a new car about 3, 4 weeks ago, after some lengthy online researches, the KIA Stinger was one of the 3 Finalists on my short list. I went to test drive all three cars in order to make the final decision. The KIA Stinger was the first. The dealer gave me a GT2 with AWD to test drive. Yes, the exterior of the car is beautiful. The interior is good but not great. KIA took the lazy way by placing the Infotainment System on top of the dash, which causes an inconvenience of reaching it while driving. The visibility behind the C-pillar and the rear window are very poor, because of the small hatchback window. The GT trim at $43K does not have any sunroof. You have to move up to the GT1 or GT2 at $50K+ in order to get the panorama moonroof. As far as I can remember, I think this might be the first $40K+ vehicle of any brand that does not have sunroof. Last but not least, the Stinger has only a 15.9 gallon gas tank, with its extra weight, its gas mileage is very poor, that means a full tank of gas cannot get you very far. KIA tried to save gas by implementing a Stop-Start system, which impacts the performance of the car greatly. After hearing the complaints from the customers, KIA added an option button for the driver to disable the Stop-Start system on the newer models. But I could not tell if it's working or not. On the performance side, which is the most important factor to me, the car accelerates very quickly as expected. Cornering is good, but has a slight body roll. When I accelerate hard out of a corner, the car seemed to "hesitate" a little. Even the salesman noticed that and he did not know why. In addition, the AWD has limited configuration. I cannot send more power to the front wheels for example. It is a real-wheel biased AWD system. Even when I put the car in Sport Mode, the suspension is not as firm as I expected for Sport Mode. My conclusion after my test drive was that, the Stinger is a very good start for KIA, but definitely not there yet. It will probably take them a few iterations to get it right to be a true sports car. I ended up buying the Subaru 2019 WRX STi Limited instead and cannot be happier.
substring zero haven’t driven a stinger but I did test a WRX and a STi. With the STi I wasn’t very impressed, very lackluster engine with a narrow peaky torque curve. The car itself felt decent, the tranny and AWD system is good, but it really needs a high output version of the fa20dit to keep up with the competition, the RS and the Golf R are worlds ahead in the powertrain department. The EJ is outdated and still suffers from ringland failure and cooling issues. Slap some equal length headers, a quality protune, a oil cooler and air/oil separator if you want to avoid ringland failure. Engine will stay nice and cool, cylinders 2/4 will have equal heat distribution due to the exhaust runners being the same length as 1/3 resulting in less wear
Why would anyone buy a WRX limited over premium though? The jump from base to premium is a good value, the jump from premium to limited barely adds anything meaningful (unless you can't live without leather and LEDs).
WRX are not as cheap to maintain as people think. My buddy just had a coil pack replaced... 200 bucks each. I paid $200 for 6 coil packs with plugs for my BMW. Lucky he had warranty left.... but his engine already blew when he got it.... this engine only had 20K on it and it's a CVT so it's not like he can even redline it. He is very glad he didn't mod it now and just wants to get rid of it. He did just buy 4 new rims though.... sad.... but yea.... he just wants it gone I think. The ringland failure is also an issue and his tech told him they are just designed like crap.
You always make great reviews but I am saving my coins for the redesign WRX in 2020. The kia was never an option though. I would still rather buy a base WRX
Looking for a sporty/sports car for a friend. I think this is a better find than the WRX and even the underrated and amazing Giulia because of the Stinger's reliability. Used prices seem in line with the Giulia but it's going to be more reliable. And you get the hatchback.
Drove the 2.0 and it was nice but to get the performance you want. You really have to push the engine more than the v6. Which drops your overall mpg and works the engine harder. Seeing the price difference between the 2.0 premium and base GT, I would get the latter.
Matt, you have nailed it on the head, Subaru refuses to give us the WRX hatch, and they put in that goofy ass CVT. I share my car with my wife and need an auto, but still want to drive something fun!
Very informative. I'm highly considering getting this car or a Genesis G70. The Stinger seems more affordable and more used ones are available in my area (thou not many).
For me personally I would still get a wrx. Great resale value, huge aftermarket, amazing awd. I do agree that the cvt is quite pitiful, a fault on Subaru but what kind of car enthusiast would get a wrx in automatic. Great review though!
Neezy Ko I agree but there are some cars with amazing automatics like the pdk. I just don’t like how Subaru pushed with the cvt, they should have put a dual clutch similar to the evo X. But to me I’m still a manual fan and am currently looking for a 2015+ wrx in wrb and a manual transmission.
Neezy Ko it’s a damn shame they discontinued the evos. To me all what they needed to do was improve the interior a bit like what Subaru did and maybe give it a little more power, give it a 6 speed manual and that would be it. To me the evo X has an amazing exterior, I like how boxy it is.
I think the Kia Stinger 2.0T may not look as aggressive as the Subaru WRX Limited, the interior is interesting and has a strong-willed four-cylinder petrol engine.
I’ve been thinking about buying this exact model. Every video hits the key points I like to buy it but one question no has answered in they’re videos… what type of gas can this car take? I’ve heard regular, Premium, or it can take both. What is your recommendation for fuel type?
The Kia 8 speed is quicker and more responsive in manual mode than both the GM and Ford 8 and 10 speed transmissions. The Ford/GM 10 speed in automatic mode seems about the same responsiveness as the Kia transmission. Torqueflight in the Mopar stuff is the ZF 8 speed, so it's quicker in every way (in it's newest version) and probably still the best torque converter automatic out right now in my opinion.
You can run it on regular 87 octane, though many will claim that you can get an extra 10 HP or so by running premium. I've got a 2.0t Sonata with the same engine. I average around 23-24mpg with 90% city driving and heavy foot. The AWD Stinger should achieve 24-25 mpg combined city/highway. These 2.0t engines aren't going to get stellar fuel economy, but if you stay out of boost they aren't bad.
Grue & 92ASC Thanks for the feedback! Similar MPG as my WRX CVT... I only run high octane though so $.60 more per gallon means it costs me more to drive the Suby. 🙏🏼🤙🏼ALOHA
Matt, Great review and I agree the Stinger is a better bargain and much nicer vehicle over the Suabru WRX or a Subaru Legacy . I drove both and I have owned several Subaru Legacy GT's. I agree The Stinger 4 cylinder is the better car, more comfortable, and better warranty. Plus the 8 speed Automatic is very good, I feel ZF level. The All Wheel Drive system also seems spot on, works well. The V6 Stinger GT is really nice, but almost feel it isn't needed. The Stinger is like a All in One Car. Comfort, High Build Quality, Tons of room, Good Handler, Good Price, and The Best Warranty. Subaru and some other Japanese companies need to wake up and get with the times. Hyundai/Kia are really showing what they can do.
Thanks! I'd like to review one if someone offers one to me nearby. They're rare cars though so I'm not sure if I'll ever get the opportunity. Congrats on your purchase though!
Car lacks the aggressive look of the higher trim GT1/GT2. The wheels are super generic looking and really let the car down. KIA has def stepped up their game and it looks like there are some nice touches (interior, build quality and punchy 2.0t engine) but it is just missing something IMO. The price between a base and a Gt1 is like 4k . I think it is worth it to suck it up and go for the V6. Nice work Matt. Cheers
Gipsy...It's actually closer to 7K more for the GT, since the base is 31.9K and the GT is 38.5K. But I agree that the GT would be the way to go in this baby!
I'd like to be a snowbird and have a house in SoCal to film from January-April, just not at that income level yet haha. It's definitely not fun filming this time of year.
They're both fantastic so it's close. The Stinger feels a little bit sportier but also a little heavier in the corners than the Accord. If you want a manual, go for the Accord. If you want the roomier hatch go for the Stinger. Otherwise, between the 2 it's really a toss up, they're both fantastic.
Ali Jaber both great cars. I’d say test drive both as they are really close in specs then compare. Then compare space and cargo volume between the two. The Stinger has more room to me. But the Honda 2.0 is just as fun as a Stinger 2.0 just know the Stinger has RWD/AWD and the Accord only has FWD but I heard the 2019 might get AWD if you need it.
Another great video! I don't see this completing with the WRX though this seems to be a much bigger car overall. Kia has come a long way but I don't see myself in the market for this car. Looks terrible if I'm honest looks like Kia couldn't decide what lines to take In the design of this car. If I remember right, isn't Mazda offering all wheel drive in 2018? If that's true my money would go to a Mazda hands down.
would rather Stinger than WRX for 1 simple reason, the driver reputation... Unfortunately WRX drivers have a reputation of being douchebags for the most part. Honestly, don't like getting cars with bad driver reputation, hate having to explain to people how i'm not like the others who own these cars xD
That MPG average you obtained is even more concerning when you take in consideration that the car you were driving had 12,500 miles on it. How does the handling and automatic transmission (especially in manual mode) compare to the Mazda 6 Signature you reviewed. You can already find Stinger bases in the 20k range preowned by the way, a definite bargain.
Handling was better in the Stinger than the Mazda 6 simply because the Mazda just feels heavier. The Mazda's dated 6 speed auto is a fine transmission but it's still slower than the brand new 8 speed in the Kia. Used Kias are a great bargain, the only downside is warranty goes down to 5 years/60k miles if you're not the first owner.
@@MattMaranMotoring Thanks Matt, I realize the Mazda 6 is also fwd, compared to Stinger's rwd or awd, but it's handling is always praised in the mid size family sedan class as very sporty and engaging, so I was just wondering how far off it actually was. I had forgot that the Kia warranty in it's entirety didn't transfer over. Thanks for the reply.
Matt Maran Motoring I’ve actually been wanting to see a comparison with the Stinger 2.0t and the Mazda6 2.5t. Obviously different cars, but I’d cross shop them for sure. Similar price, both have their strengths. Do you think the Mazda feels heavier than the Stinger because they give the steering some extra weight? When I drove the 6 (granted it was a 2016) the steering felt satisfyingly heavy, which helped the fact that its FWD.
WB Wayne I really like both of those cars, I’d have a hard time deciding between the two. The Stinger would be tough to turn down because of the RWD, but the Mazda6 is ultra premium and looks incredible for a similar price. I still stare at Mazda6s when they pass, even after they’ve been out for a few years.
So Hyundai-Kia put the same engine (Theta 2) from the Stinger in the Veloster N, but it's 250hp for the heavier Stinger and 275hp for the tiny Veloster N. Just weird 😵
My sister's Dodge Avenger has the same 260 lb/ft of torque, but has 283 horsepower from a 3.6L naturally aspirated V6. And even tho it didn't have as much power as I expected, it's still pretty punchy. Like yesterday, we did a 0-60 run in it, and did 7 seconds flat on the first run, but the second run was 9.33 seconds. But I know it's faster than that. Like maybe 5 seconds or 5.5 seconds or something. Also, I'm feeling so pumped up for whenever you reach 400k subs, which will be exciting!
My freind just bought this and I honestly like my ATS 2.0T a little better the ATV weighs 3498 lbs and has more power and torque he drove mine and also said he can notice the difference
Great review by the way. Thanks for reviewing the base model, not many have.
Great unbiased review from the RUclipsr former known as WRXFAN. But really watch almost all your reviews and I look forward to more Bullitt Mustang videos too. Thanks for doing what you do Matt.
I own the 2.0 awd, turbos are a problem most people run up on them and they get shity gas mileage. I tried this in three different drive modes on the highway with cruise. If you keep it in economy like I did for about 70 miles , I got 39 miles to the gallon. Comfort mode which is your default mode every time you start the vehicle I was averaging 34, in sport mode which holds the revs longer and typically drives at a higher RPM on the same road for about 50 miles I got about 31 miles to the gallon. My cruise was set at 70 miles an hour. When I do a mixture of city and highway, I will change it from comfort to sport just depending on my needs and I will average about 25 miles to the gallon. Now if I feel like being Mario Andretti I'll leave it in sport mode and then that's when I'll get the crappy fuel mileage at around 19.
It's a turbo so the harder you step on it the more it's going to suck down that premium fuel.
I didn't buy it for the fuel mileage, I bought it for the car.
I paid about 31k out the door, and at this price point it's the best vehicle you can buy.
Great review Tysm , I’m looking to get a GtS in that crazy orange , I’m gonna test drive the 2.0 turbo , I can’t afford the speeding tickets when there’s cameras at every light !!!
how are you liking it now? Any problems? Looking into getting one. How many miles are on yours? Thanks in advance :)
How comfortable is it?
Test drove the GT1 and fell in love with it within 5 mins of starting the car. Bought it the next day. And I come from 328i, 2 M3s and Audi S3.
How do you like it 1+ year later? I'm thinking bout a gt1 or audi s3
@@jirule1 If you want something smaller / more fun, go with the S3. If you want something better to live with as in ride quality , features and room, go with Stinger. You won't be disappointed with either car.
Awesome. Think I'm leaning towards the s3. Thanks for the reply!
J 3 stage 2 S3 is no joke. Very quick and fun.
Main thing is I'm concerned with the reliability of the s3 compared to the stinger
You know the deal.....11:54
Excellent, lol
Thanks, chief
That delay though 🤢
Hahah
The real heroes are in the comments
I drove the 2.0T RWD version of the Stinger and I fell in love with it. It reminded me of the my 93 240sx I used to have and I had so much fun driving it and brought a smile to my face. I'm considering the Stinger as my next vehicle soon. Matt is right, test drive one and experience the Stinger.
From A Proud Kia Owner i Approve this message...
" Be the underdog "
A real sleeper.
This car is really brilliant! The base Stinger is a great alternative to the Camry or Accord in terms of features and pricing, but it will be much cooler and fun to drive. Whereas the Stinger GT is a great choice for anyone looking at an Audi A5, since it gives you a really nice car with far better performance for similar money. Kudos to Kia!
your title made me click the video. never thought of that comparison. good job and keep it up!
I would take this over a wrx hands down it looks cooler to me and it has much more space awesome review Matt been waiting for this review 👍👍👍👍👍👍
I remember when you first got your brz!! And when you had to sell it because of financial issues If i remember correctly. And when you got your mustang !!! God those were the good old days when I was young ! I remember always wanting a brz because of you ! Keep up the good work man I’m glad to have re stumbled upon your channel again. :)
Welcome back and thanks for the support back then too!
Did the car have to call back to Kia HQ to request permission to accelerate? That delay was significant at full throttle.
Haha nice
Damn I miss ur subaruwrx fan intro that really made you more unique I cant wait for the day I click on one of your videos and see a awesome new intro like your previous ones good job regardless Matt
Really nice video. I like the way you can still get excited when driving a non performance car. And the way you keep it real with your real life weekly drive. Thanks for what you do.
Jeff Clairday is day this IS a performance car!
Matt, I would love to know which car you believe to be better, the premium 2.0 Stinger or the 2018 2.0 Honda Accord Touring. I am looking at both as they are similarly priced. Thanks!!
Three letters: A W D
I would take this over the wrx anyday. I like cars you dont see everyday and i see at least 20 wrx/sti everyday.
Proper review good sir , feels as if you’ve slowed down the speaking and it really helps. Greetings from Colorado
The Stinger platform has been full of surprises. We've definitely had to double take a few times ourselves.
Excellent review! I love your honesy and enthusiasm. Kia (and sister company Hyundai) is on to something excellent. Even the base '19 Forte is a much better package than most would expect in this price category. The '19 Forte needs the 1.6L corporate turbo and that dual clutch 7-speed auto that Hyundai uses in the Elantra Sport in the upper level range. Kia and Hyundai also needs to equip all mid and upper range autos with LED daytime running lights as well as low and high beam lights. Winner!!!
Thanks Dexter! Kia revealed the Forte GT last month that has the setup you're describing. Should be available in the next couple months!
Dexter....They already sell that and call it the Forte GT. It's awesome!!
www.kia.com/kr/vehicles/k3-gt/features.html
What's up everybody, KiaStingerFan here
Great review Matt! Looking into one! :) Will keep you posted.
Thanks Haris, I'm glad you liked it! I hope you can get a Stinger, they're awesome!
Btw i have over 110k miles on my 11 wrx and have had no reliability issues. The reliabilty problems with the ej motor gets blown out of proportion from the research i have done..most likely a combination of people modding/abusing them and or not knowing how to take care of a boxer motor.
This car is so gorgeous in real
I bought a '18 Stinger Base AWD. I couldn't stand the halogen headlights either. I bought LED replacement bulbs fairly cheaply and it changed the look dramatically to me. It was a bit surprising KIA wouldn't make that change theirselves. I guess that's why it is the base model though. Certainly can't complain with all the other things that are included in the base model. I would like to upgrade to the premium headlights if it can be done at some point. They do have a much more aggressive look. Great review, there are not enough out there regarding the 2.0t!
The premium headlights fit? Still debating myself to get the premium or just the base
How is the car now?
@@Drip2SG I got rid of it a few years ago. I had to upgrade to a truck. I never had an issue with the car in the nearly 3 years I had it. I got it up to 40k miles.
It certainly has the looks. I can't wait to see how people start to build and modify these
MaxSpeed agree
I already seen one.😉
Lmao the non gt model looks terrible
3.3tt is going to be having 600whp soon coming out of Korea
As I have mentioned in your two Stinger GT video and other videos that other reviewers have put out the Kia Stinger is MY FAVORITE car to come out in the last two years maybe longer. Ever since I saw your video from the reveal at the Auto Show I have fell in love with the styling (unlike the opposite on the meter in the Kia Soul), it is just so dang sexy, the performance that most including yourself have GLOWED about in now both engine options, the Speedback type hatch design for utility and so on and so forth. I just wish they had a couple more color choices, instead of just Red, White and Blue (very Patriotic) as well as grey and black. There is one GT in a Nardo grey like color and it is sharp though, but if I was able to get one, I would probably go with the 1st of 3 levels of the GT with AWD since I live about 2 hours south of Pittsburgh in West Virginia and it reduced the cost of getting into that 3.3 TT V6.
I know that you have made a couple videos on how you will survive and drive in the winter, with the press cars and your wife's car as the Bullitt will sit on snowy salt covered days. But I bet if you had to have another vehicle for winter I can see you getting the GT with AWD, not sure which of the 3 levels though. It has AWD for the winter, yet still be extremely fun to drive ALL YEAR around not like a standard "boring" Ford Escape or other CUV. Thanks for sharing your thoughts once again, always a great watch. :)
Thanks Forrest! Once I need a 4 door car when I have kids eventually, I'll most likely get a Stinger GT in GT1 trim. Don't need the tech of the GT2 trim and it's a good bit cheaper.
@@MattMaranMotoring you are quite welcome, yeah I remember that being a reason that you haven't gotten a 4 door car and enjoy the full on sport coupe life while you can. I am single with no kids, but the reason I like 4 door cars is for those times when I do go out with friends and we all jump in one car, makes it easier. I remember a couple years ago looking for and wondering if there was a sporty fun 4 door car under 50k New beside the Dodge Charger, well Kia answered that question for me with that Sexy Stinger. Nice choice and I agree I made a GT0 AWD on the configurator and it was 44k including destination vs the 52k for the GT2. Thanks for replying Matt. :)
Few interior distractions, fair price (for the base model), turbocharged engine, AWD, manual, and a comparatively smaller vehicle, the WRX takes the cake for me!
You do a very unbiased comment. I love that!
No doubt Kia cars are at least up to Japanese standard now, just the badge takes years to develop followers.
I get 25.6 combined 22city and have hit 32highway. I leave it in Comfort mode mostly. Always turn off the stop/go feature.
Is it still the case ?
Not bad. Hopefully kia will give the Stinger the upcoming 2.5t 4 cylinder for the refresh. It's nice to know that launch control is standard on all Stingers.
J T are you thinking of Mazda’s 2.5t? I don’t know anything about Kia making one.
I doubt the typical WRX age demographic would go for a Kia though..
Surprisingly I would and a lot of my friends would too (young musicians). It's just more practical than a WRX (hatchbacks are nice for my amps,guitars, and gear etc) and I can haul my friends out to the club if I needed to. The great thing about this car is the fuel economy. It's just much more better than a suv or ugly minivan. Hopefully they're selling them for a couple of grand less than the msrp.
Agreed. This is too grown up and mature for those boy racer WRX douchebags lol.
TheHvk Wouldn’t say that per say, it’s just when people ask what kind of car you do you drive, you have to tell them you drive a Kia. It’s a cool car for sure, but the brand has zero clout in the car scene.
Derek Stewart ‘Twas my point. Also the WRX aftermarket is massive. Huge plus for people who want to mod their cars.
@@xchrono8811 That's fine, I don't care what people think. KIA makes good cars at a great price now. I couldn't give a shit about the brand prestige. Let the fools go bankrupt trying to maintain an image driving a BMW or Audi that costs an arm and a leg to repair. The fact that KIA even made this shows they'll have some clout in the automotive world soon enough. Genesis will be big too someday also. Make a GOOD CAR and people will come! If a new Genesis coupe comes out in the next 4-5 years I'll be all over it.
Hello matt i enjoyed this video that you did of the kia stinger. I'm waiting on the video of you with the 2019 kia sorento ex
Thanks! That one should be posted late this month or early next month!
I have no idea what the aftermarket sector is for this car but I'm sure a tune would go a long way right off the bat. Maybe change the BOV configuration for fun with the tune lol love the look of this car though for sure. great video!
This car already has alot of aftermarket..
I was in the market for a new car about 3, 4 weeks ago, after some lengthy online researches, the KIA Stinger was one of the 3 Finalists on my short list. I went to test drive all three cars in order to make the final decision. The KIA Stinger was the first. The dealer gave me a GT2 with AWD to test drive. Yes, the exterior of the car is beautiful. The interior is good but not great. KIA took the lazy way by placing the Infotainment System on top of the dash, which causes an inconvenience of reaching it while driving. The visibility behind the C-pillar and the rear window are very poor, because of the small hatchback window. The GT trim at $43K does not have any sunroof. You have to move up to the GT1 or GT2 at $50K+ in order to get the panorama moonroof. As far as I can remember, I think this might be the first $40K+ vehicle of any brand that does not have sunroof. Last but not least, the Stinger has only a 15.9 gallon gas tank, with its extra weight, its gas mileage is very poor, that means a full tank of gas cannot get you very far. KIA tried to save gas by implementing a Stop-Start system, which impacts the performance of the car greatly. After hearing the complaints from the customers, KIA added an option button for the driver to disable the Stop-Start system on the newer models. But I could not tell if it's working or not.
On the performance side, which is the most important factor to me, the car accelerates very quickly as expected. Cornering is good, but has a slight body roll. When I accelerate hard out of a corner, the car seemed to "hesitate" a little. Even the salesman noticed that and he did not know why. In addition, the AWD has limited configuration. I cannot send more power to the front wheels for example. It is a real-wheel biased AWD system. Even when I put the car in Sport Mode, the suspension is not as firm as I expected for Sport Mode.
My conclusion after my test drive was that, the Stinger is a very good start for KIA, but definitely not there yet. It will probably take them a few iterations to get it right to be a true sports car.
I ended up buying the Subaru 2019 WRX STi Limited instead and cannot be happier.
substring zero manual is better anyday for driving
substring zero haven’t driven a stinger but I did test a WRX and a STi. With the STi I wasn’t very impressed, very lackluster engine with a narrow peaky torque curve. The car itself felt decent, the tranny and AWD system is good, but it really needs a high output version of the fa20dit to keep up with the competition, the RS and the Golf R are worlds ahead in the powertrain department. The EJ is outdated and still suffers from ringland failure and cooling issues. Slap some equal length headers, a quality protune, a oil cooler and air/oil separator if you want to avoid ringland failure. Engine will stay nice and cool, cylinders 2/4 will have equal heat distribution due to the exhaust runners being the same length as 1/3 resulting in less wear
The Stinger is not intended to be a sports car. It is in the tradition of a Euro GT.
I just sold my wrx and bought this car said nobody.
I did , sold my STI a awd gt
Lit... just lit
I will once cheaper.
If it’s not manual it’s not an option... it looks cool though.
@@tdade13 That's a different story though. The TT v6 is a monster.
The "leather" bolster/edges on the driver's seat already look like they are 3 years old (worn)...
Why would anyone buy a WRX limited over premium though? The jump from base to premium is a good value, the jump from premium to limited barely adds anything meaningful (unless you can't live without leather and LEDs).
Thanks! My 2020 GT-line easily gets 36MPG on the highway...about 20 around town...Sunroof and harmin kardin complete the package!
WRX are not as cheap to maintain as people think. My buddy just had a coil pack replaced... 200 bucks each. I paid $200 for 6 coil packs with plugs for my BMW. Lucky he had warranty left.... but his engine already blew when he got it.... this engine only had 20K on it and it's a CVT so it's not like he can even redline it. He is very glad he didn't mod it now and just wants to get rid of it. He did just buy 4 new rims though.... sad.... but yea.... he just wants it gone I think. The ringland failure is also an issue and his tech told him they are just designed like crap.
alphazoom II the fa20dit doesn’t have ringland issues that’s the ej257 in the STi and 2014 and older WRX’s
Mine blew too
You always make great reviews but I am saving my coins for the redesign WRX in 2020. The kia was never an option though. I would still rather buy a base WRX
Gus astudillo I bet it’ll be amazing!
Gus astudillo same here!
Madman6505 plus the subi will hold its value a lot more in 6 years
Very good review!
I can't get into this after seeing how sexy the GT2 is
And how amazing thr V6 sounds!
My 2 requirements for a Stinger: GT or nothing and red leather interior.
@@Ezero8 YES!!!!!
@@yourmanzach2307 I love the V6 sound, KIA has done an amazing job with the stinger
Rear is 100% copy of Maserati. Fake hood vents, Merc Air vents
Think about getting one your pushing me toward it :)
You really love the car
Long time ago i heard you soooo positive, love here, love there
Must be a great car
The more I watch your videos the better they get!! I'm trying take some tips from yours and incorporate them into mine. Hope you dont mind! Haha
Looking for a sporty/sports car for a friend. I think this is a better find than the WRX and even the underrated and amazing Giulia because of the Stinger's reliability. Used prices seem in line with the Giulia but it's going to be more reliable. And you get the hatchback.
The wear and tear on the leather looks awful for a vehicle with 12k miles on it.
Michael Ellman it’s a Kia don’t expect too much
it's a press car
$27k for a 2018 CPO 2.0t AWD.
I'd go for the stinger over a wrx.
Drove the 2.0 and it was nice but to get the performance you want. You really have to push the engine more than the v6. Which drops your overall mpg and works the engine harder. Seeing the price difference between the 2.0 premium and base GT, I would get the latter.
Matt, you have nailed it on the head, Subaru refuses to give us the WRX hatch, and they put in that goofy ass CVT. I share my car with my wife and need an auto, but still want to drive something fun!
1 WRX for me please. I always know how for to jump in your video to get to the "back roads" section...like magic.
since subaru killed off all their turbo hatches, the stinger is the way to go for cargo space.
I’ll stick with my 2018 wrx. But I can definitely appreciate the vision and direction Kia is tryna take with a car like this.
Very informative. I'm highly considering getting this car or a Genesis G70. The Stinger seems more affordable and more used ones are available in my area (thou not many).
For me personally I would still get a wrx. Great resale value, huge aftermarket, amazing awd. I do agree that the cvt is quite pitiful, a fault on Subaru but what kind of car enthusiast would get a wrx in automatic. Great review though!
Neezy Ko I agree but there are some cars with amazing automatics like the pdk. I just don’t like how Subaru pushed with the cvt, they should have put a dual clutch similar to the evo X. But to me I’m still a manual fan and am currently looking for a 2015+ wrx in wrb and a manual transmission.
Neezy Ko it’s a damn shame they discontinued the evos. To me all what they needed to do was improve the interior a bit like what Subaru did and maybe give it a little more power, give it a 6 speed manual and that would be it. To me the evo X has an amazing exterior, I like how boxy it is.
Actually, it hast the BEST resale value haha. Its crazy how good it is.
I’ve seen way more people drive automatic wrxs surprisingly and most of them are like middle aged.
Friends don’t let friends buy CVT WRX.
These things are about 30k new and i found a used one with 7k miles for 25k what a deal!
I think the Kia Stinger 2.0T may not look as aggressive as the Subaru WRX Limited, the interior is interesting and has a strong-willed four-cylinder petrol engine.
I’ve been thinking about buying this exact model. Every video hits the key points I like to buy it but one question no has answered in they’re videos… what type of gas can this car take? I’ve heard regular, Premium, or it can take both. What is your recommendation for fuel type?
If you ever visit Florida again, I have a 2016 Scion tC release series 10.0 (manual) that I’m sure you would want to review!
Thanks for the offer, I'd definitely be interested to review a manual one!
🤔Needs a Manuel transmission
Agreed
@@clairekennedy8767 👍
The new G70 gets one and shorter wheelbase.
It is available.
How does Kia's gearbox compare to GM's 8 speed or the new 10 speed they did with Ford? Or the torqueflight?
The Kia 8 speed is quicker and more responsive in manual mode than both the GM and Ford 8 and 10 speed transmissions. The Ford/GM 10 speed in automatic mode seems about the same responsiveness as the Kia transmission. Torqueflight in the Mopar stuff is the ZF 8 speed, so it's quicker in every way (in it's newest version) and probably still the best torque converter automatic out right now in my opinion.
Hey Matt
Are u going to test the 2022 Kia Stinger Gt-line AWD 2.5 Turbo?
What grade fuel is required/recommended? Premium? What kind of fuel economy are they getting?
You can run it on regular 87 octane, though many will claim that you can get an extra 10 HP or so by running premium. I've got a 2.0t Sonata with the same engine. I average around 23-24mpg with 90% city driving and heavy foot. The AWD Stinger should achieve 24-25 mpg combined city/highway. These 2.0t engines aren't going to get stellar fuel economy, but if you stay out of boost they aren't bad.
Grue & 92ASC Thanks for the feedback! Similar MPG as my WRX CVT... I only run high octane though so $.60 more per gallon means it costs me more to drive the Suby.
🙏🏼🤙🏼ALOHA
Matt, Great review and I agree the Stinger is a better bargain and much nicer vehicle over the Suabru WRX or a Subaru Legacy . I drove both and I have owned several Subaru Legacy GT's. I agree The Stinger 4 cylinder is the better car, more comfortable, and better warranty. Plus the 8 speed Automatic is very good, I feel ZF level. The All Wheel Drive system also seems spot on, works well. The V6 Stinger GT is really nice, but almost feel it isn't needed. The Stinger is like a All in One Car. Comfort, High Build Quality, Tons of room, Good Handler, Good Price, and The Best Warranty. Subaru and some other Japanese companies need to wake up and get with the times. Hyundai/Kia are really showing what they can do.
Needs a manual!
BASITH PH which you can get w/ WRX.
Agreed would be easy since G70 has manual and these cars are very similar.
Michael Y. tru
Claire Kennedy I like the G70 more than the Stinger
I like the taillights as well, but that light/reflector thing continuing up the side looks so out of place
I always get bad MPG in winter, I heard they use different gas in the winter time.
How is it in normal mode? Is it still peppy?
Hey Matt, love you videos , i was wondering if you could review the 2018 passat GT. I recently bought the car and wanted your opinion on it.
Thanks! I'd like to review one if someone offers one to me nearby. They're rare cars though so I'm not sure if I'll ever get the opportunity. Congrats on your purchase though!
@@MattMaranMotoring where are you located? Im in Texas.
I'm in Pittsburgh, PA. Thanks anyway though!
Car lacks the aggressive look of the higher trim GT1/GT2. The wheels are super generic looking and really let the car down. KIA has def stepped up their game and it looks like there are some nice touches (interior, build quality and punchy 2.0t engine) but it is just missing something IMO. The price between a base and a Gt1 is like 4k . I think it is worth it to suck it up and go for the V6. Nice work Matt. Cheers
They even have a 2.0T premium trim which is nearly equal to the price of a GT base.
Gipsy...It's actually closer to 7K more for the GT, since the base is 31.9K and the GT is 38.5K. But I agree that the GT would be the way to go in this baby!
The European market gets a 2.0 with the GT exterior package.
Best car in the class
Matt...the AWD is not standard on the Stinger. It is optional, and therefore factors into that price you quoted.
Matt actually said view in the back not great?! Haven’t heard that before!
stinger owners dont vape so no
I do ^^
I actually like the GT2 with the V6 and RWD it is a better deal
It's too expensive
Leather on driver's bolster already worn looking?????
bikephil I thought that’s what I saw!
I saw that too, kind of worrying!
tough filming in the north east in winter, huh? ever thought about moving out to Socal?
I'd like to be a snowbird and have a house in SoCal to film from January-April, just not at that income level yet haha. It's definitely not fun filming this time of year.
Between the Stinger and the accord 2.0 sport which one is your favorite?
They're both fantastic so it's close. The Stinger feels a little bit sportier but also a little heavier in the corners than the Accord. If you want a manual, go for the Accord. If you want the roomier hatch go for the Stinger. Otherwise, between the 2 it's really a toss up, they're both fantastic.
Ali Jaber both great cars. I’d say test drive both as they are really close in specs then compare. Then compare space and cargo volume between the two. The Stinger has more room to me. But the Honda 2.0 is just as fun as a Stinger 2.0 just know the Stinger has RWD/AWD and the Accord only has FWD but I heard the 2019 might get AWD if you need it.
312 Lbs lighter than a Stinger GT! That's gotta make it more tossable.
Another great video!
I don't see this completing with the WRX though this seems to be a much bigger car overall.
Kia has come a long way but I don't see myself in the market for this car. Looks terrible if I'm honest looks like Kia couldn't decide what lines to take In the design of this car. If I remember right, isn't Mazda offering all wheel drive in 2018?
If that's true my money would go to a Mazda hands down.
aaa the triptronic....why the + always move to the front......why not to the back like race cars?
The steering wheel actually is a flat bottom one in the gt model but still a wonderful video
Ah you're right, thanks for the correction! I totally forgot about the GT's flat bottom one.
would rather Stinger than WRX for 1 simple reason, the driver reputation... Unfortunately WRX drivers have a reputation of being douchebags for the most part. Honestly, don't like getting cars with bad driver reputation, hate having to explain to people how i'm not like the others who own these cars xD
Dear Matt if you like handling of Stinger you should really go and trest Genesis G70!
WRX= Better tried and true all wheel drive system; easier to mod if you want to.
And easier to broke lol 😂
Tried and proven to have a faulted engine design
@@timdom9590 - I have owned nine Subaru's and have never had an engine problem. :)
@@wizeguiz so, you're in the "minority" then :)
@@nnr3 So be it. :)
Great review Matt! Stinger or G70?
Thanks! Didn't get much seat time in the G70 yet so hard to say, but I do like the better practicality of the Stinger.
Thanks Matt, I’ll remember to ask you again after you get more time in the G70.
Worse gas mileage could be due to the winter gas and colder temps too.
True.
That MPG average you obtained is even more concerning when you take in consideration that the car you were driving had 12,500 miles on it.
How does the handling and automatic transmission (especially in manual mode) compare to the Mazda 6 Signature you reviewed.
You can already find Stinger bases in the 20k range preowned by the way, a definite bargain.
Handling was better in the Stinger than the Mazda 6 simply because the Mazda just feels heavier. The Mazda's dated 6 speed auto is a fine transmission but it's still slower than the brand new 8 speed in the Kia. Used Kias are a great bargain, the only downside is warranty goes down to 5 years/60k miles if you're not the first owner.
@@MattMaranMotoring
Thanks Matt, I realize the Mazda 6 is also fwd, compared to Stinger's rwd or awd, but it's handling is always praised in the mid size family sedan class as very sporty and engaging, so I was just wondering how far off it actually was. I had forgot that the Kia warranty in it's entirety didn't transfer over. Thanks for the reply.
Matt Maran Motoring I’ve actually been wanting to see a comparison with the Stinger 2.0t and the Mazda6 2.5t. Obviously different cars, but I’d cross shop them for sure. Similar price, both have their strengths. Do you think the Mazda feels heavier than the Stinger because they give the steering some extra weight? When I drove the 6 (granted it was a 2016) the steering felt satisfyingly heavy, which helped the fact that its FWD.
WB Wayne I really like both of those cars, I’d have a hard time deciding between the two. The Stinger would be tough to turn down because of the RWD, but the Mazda6 is ultra premium and looks incredible for a similar price. I still stare at Mazda6s when they pass, even after they’ve been out for a few years.
@@patrickbarrios4634
I feel exactly the same way.
Yes the back end is a copy are the RX7 1998 version
maybe AWG on a 2.0T you need more gas to go so the higher fuel consumption
So Hyundai-Kia put the same engine (Theta 2) from the Stinger in the Veloster N, but it's 250hp for the heavier Stinger and 275hp for the tiny Veloster N. Just weird 😵
The Veloster N's engine is up-tuned just like the Type R's 2.0T.
Hey Matt, Your voice sounds muffled. Are you using a standing mic?
Which part sounded muffled? I use a lavalier mic for the standup part and use the cameras mic inside the car.
Seeing RUclips caption you saying WRX gave me a great laugh. Mostly it displayed "Deborah X". So, who's Deborah, Matt?
Its basically using the base N vehicle motor. Im not surprised its still punchy.
Tech Pappee...Right. It's also the base engine from the G70, which itself is just a modified Sonata/Santa Fe engine.
My sister's Dodge Avenger has the same 260 lb/ft of torque, but has 283 horsepower from a 3.6L naturally aspirated V6. And even tho it didn't have as much power as I expected, it's still pretty punchy. Like yesterday, we did a 0-60 run in it, and did 7 seconds flat on the first run, but the second run was 9.33 seconds. But I know it's faster than that. Like maybe 5 seconds or 5.5 seconds or something. Also, I'm feeling so pumped up for whenever you reach 400k subs, which will be exciting!
Drive the Cadillac ATS 2.0 turbo it’s even faster than weights at 3500 pounds with awd and Brembo brakes
My freind just bought this and I honestly like my ATS 2.0T a little better the ATV weighs 3498 lbs and has more power and torque he drove mine and also said he can notice the difference
Suazzz...to be fair, the ATS is at least 10K more than a base Kia Stinger. It should have some perks over the Kia.
This or the civic type R?
I think this one is better
2019 Kia Stinger Base Model .vs 2019 VW GLI ?