This is our first look at the facelifted 2021 Kia Stinger and while it may take a keen eye to notice the changes, the South Korean automaker will hope these alterations drum up some sales in a struggling sedan market.
Up front, Kia has fitted new multifaceted reflector LED headlights with a tweaked design and incorporated LED daytime running lights. These new lights are slightly darker than those of the pre-facelifted Stinger and give the sports sedan a more high-tech light signature.
The most significant visual change comes at the rear where Kia’s designers have created new taillights with a full-width LED light bar. Found within the new taillight units are turn signals with a collection of 10 individual LED units each, arranged in a grid pattern to mimic the look of a checkered flag.
Elsewhere, the updated Stinger includes two new 18- and 19-inch aluminum wheel designs and buyers will be able to option larger bright silver exhaust mufflers as well as a more purposeful and “performance-inspired” rear diffuser.
Two new exterior packages are also on offer, depending on the market. In worldwide markets, there is a ‘Dark Package’ that includes a gloss black diffuser surround and black muffler tips. The Stinger emblem on the tailgate is also black. In North America, a ‘Black Package’ is offered and adds 19-inch matte black wheels, a new trunklid lip spoiler, and blacked-out mirror caps and side fender trim. The model pictured appears to be a Korean version as evidenced by the market-specific badge.
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Few changes have been made to the cabin. The most significant upgrade is the fitment of the automaker’s new 10.25-inch widescreen infotainment and navigation system. Elsewhere, the Stinger receives contrast stitching across the dashboard and doors while the center console is available with aluminum or carbon fiber-style trim. Kia has also fitted a mood lighting system that allows drivers to select one of 64 possible colors. The lower section of the steering wheel also has a metallic finish and there is a chrome bezel around the central 7.0-inch gauge display.
Depending on the market, new interior color and material options will also be offered. In Korea, for example, a new Dark Brown monotone interior with ultra-soft diamond-quilted Nappa leather seats is available. In global markets, new choices include Nappa leather upholstery finished in Saturn Black, Red or Beige, alongside existing leather and synthetic leather options.
“The Stinger projects an air of elegance and comfort, and also great purpose, for long distance driving,” senior vice president and head of Kia Global Design, Karim Habib said. “The updated model builds on the svelte gran turismo design we introduced three years ago with modern flair and a subtle hint of aggression to enhance its on-road presence. The interior too has been enhanced, and the new design elements and technologies incorporated into the Stinger reconfirm its credentials as the consummate grand tourer.”
Additional details about the 2021 Kia Stinger will be announced soon. Sales will start in Korea during the third quarter of 2020 with sales in global markets starting after.
