Skip advert
Advertisement

Kia Stinger GT S (2017-2022) review – performance and 0-60

It just about sneaks under the five second mark to 62mph, but this car’s all about the mid-range

Evo rating
  • Chassis has no problem putting a smile on your face; looks brilliant
  • Steering lacks clarity; engine effective but muted; thirsty

In the GT S Kia has produced its quickest ever vehicle, reaching 62mph from rest in 4.9sec and going on to a most un-Kia-like 168mph. Just roll those numbers around in your head for a second and then remember what Kia’s road cars used to be like – whatever you think of the Korean brand’s image, the reality of Kia in 2024 is quite appealing.

Advertisement - Article continues below

A kerb weight of 1780kg means the Stinger GT S never feels quite as quick as it looks on paper, though the engine’s relatively cultured and undramatic delivery is also to blame – the Stinger is very much one of those cars that delivers its performance deceptively rather than boisterously.

It might be more engaging if the engine and four-exit exhaust system produced a more musical note, but the 3.3 will not be regarded as one of the great V6s by automotive historians. It’s certainly not bad and in general driving it’s plenty refined and punchy enough; we’d just like a bit more aural character.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Four modern classic sports cars that cost a fraction of their modern equivalents
Cheap sports cars
Best cars

Four modern classic sports cars that cost a fraction of their modern equivalents

A new 911 is over £100,000, a new Lotus Evora just under, a new Vantage just over £160,000. Save a fortune and buy their modern classic ancestors
5 Feb 2026
Is Porsche really pulling the plug on the all-electric Boxster?
Porsche Cayman EV
News

Is Porsche really pulling the plug on the all-electric Boxster?

Reports by Bloomberg suggest the new CEO is considering ditching the all-electric Boxster and Cayman for hybrid power.
3 Feb 2026
Hot hatch icons take over the new issue of evo – car pictures of the week
'80s French hot hatches
Features

Hot hatch icons take over the new issue of evo – car pictures of the week

It’s a French revolution in the upcoming issue of evo, with iconic 80’s hot hatches and jewel-like Alpine A110 coach builds, plus a whole lot more
7 Feb 2026