Kia puts on the Stinger out to pasture after the 2023 model year, but the South Korean automaker is making a Tribute Edition as a parting gift. The Kia Stinger Tribute Edition is limited to 1,000 units worldwide, and the high-performance sedan features a twin-turbo 3.3-liter V6 Lambda engine that produces 368 hp at 6,000 rpm and 376 lb.-ft. torque at 1300-4500 rpm. All is not lost in Kia’s range of high-performance cars, as the GT range continues the legacy of the Stinger.
The Stinger debuted in 2017 and was a stark departure from Kia’s usual well-built and aesthetically boring warranty vehicles. At the time of the Stinger’s introduction, the idea of a sporty, high-horsepower Kia wasn’t a tangible concept, but public opinion of the automaker changed in the years following the performance sedan’s debut.
“The Stinger Tribute Edition marks an important chapter in the history of Kia’s high-performance ethos. With exclusive colors and interior trim never before seen on a sedan, the Stinger serves as a fitting celebration of Kia’s contribution to the brand,” said Chang Sung Ryu, vice president and head of the CX design division.
The Tribute Edition has some aesthetic differences from a regular Stinger. In addition to the standard Ascot Green exterior, a new Moonscape Matte Gray shade is available, and the Tribute Edition rides on 19-inch gloss black design wheels with black Brembo calipers.
Before the Stinger heads to the big show in the sky, Kia has developed a bumblebee-shaped emblem embedded in the seat headrests. Other exclusive interior features include terracotta brown leather that extends to the steering wheel, door side trim and door handles. To keep the Tribute Edition bona fide, a numbered door sill plate on the driver’s side indicates that it’s the real deal.
Kia is moving forward with alternative fuel methods, the 2022 Kia EV6 was one of US News & World Report.The best hybrid and electric cars” range, and the phasing out of the high-performance sedan is a natural progression towards a larger EV range.
“As we enter a new era of mobility, Kia will meet the needs of customers who want to enjoy a dynamic driving experience with high-performance electric models like the EV6 GT. The brand’s strategy to continue to accelerate the development of innovative electrification technologies will ensure that sustainability and strong performance come together effortlessly under the Kia badge,” said Chang Sung Ryu.
I’ve always been a Stinger fan. It was a nice change for Kia to develop and offer a proper sports sedan that stood apart from its fairly stable lineup. I consider it a sharp looking car that stood out from the crowd of Nissan Altimas and Honda Accords. Thanks for the good time, Kia Stinger.
