Kia Stinger 2017 Quick Spin

What’s it all about?
In Australia’s declining large car segment, the all-new Kia Stinger ‘sedan’ mightn’t seem to make a lot of sense.

But, as those familiar with the locally-produced Ford Falcon and Holden Commodore ranges look for a large rear-drive alternative, it’s this Korean-built newcomer which stands more of a chance than most – particularly when optioned with the sporty twin-turbo V6 engine (272kW/510Nm).

On test, however, is the 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol version of the Stinger, sampled in mid-grade 200Si form. It’s a well-equipped and adequately-powered (182kW/353Nm) five-door hatchback with a cabin capable of comfortably housing up to five adult passengers.

How much will it cost?
The Stinger range begins with the 200S (from $45,990 plus on-road costs) and tops out with the V6-powered GT (from $59,990 plus ORCs). In all, there are six variants available.

Even in its most basic form, the Stinger is generously specified. Base grade models include 18-inch alloy wheels, a 7.0-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, climate and cruise control, DRLs and dusk-sensing headlights, an eight-way powered driver’s seat, reversing camera and sensors.

The 200Si adopts 19-inch wheels, an 8.0-inch infotainment array, adaptive cruise control and suspension, front parking sensors, and rain-sensing wipers. It also adds autonomous emergency braking, driver attention alert, forward collision warning and lane keeping assist to the Stinger’s already ample safety kit list. The Stinger is yet to be rated by the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP).

Like all Kia passenger cars, the Stinger is backed by a seven-year warranty, roadside assistance and capped-price servicing plan.

Why should/shouldn’t I buy it?
If an SUV isn’t your cup of tea, and you can’t find a large family wagon, a large hatch like the Stinger is really the next best thing. Its spacious cab offers all the bells and whistles on both the infotainment and safety fronts, and with a ride/handling blend suited to Aussie roads, it’s a terrific option.

We also found Kia’s new eight-speed automatic both smooth and decisive. It’s best driven in Comfort mode, however, as the Stinger’s Sport and Smart modes are a bit frenetic for all but the most challenging of winding roads. Our tip: use the paddles instead.

Of course the Stinger isn’t without its drawbacks. The swept roof and small back window restrict rearward visibility, while the lack of a rear wiper makes wet-weather vision harder again.

We were also a little miffed to find a few rattles in the cabin, and a bit of hum from the rear tyres, especially over coarse-chip asphalt.

When is it available in Australia?
Joining the range in September (2017), the Stinger is the eleventh model in Kia’s Australian portfolio. It joins the Picanto, Rio and Cerato hatch, Cerato and Optima sedan, Soul, Sportage and the recently-updated Sorento SUV, plus the Rondo and Carnival people movers, in the South Korean brand’s evolving line-up.

Kia is also tipped to release a light SUV in the next 12-18 months, the Rio-based competitor rounding-out the Korean brand’s range.

Who will it appeal to?
Whether the Stinger will appeal to traditional, rusted-on Falcon and Commodore buyers remains to be seen. The Blue and Red Army both purchased with their hearts, and understood how well the local products met the needs of our wide, brown land. Changing such a mindset is a difficult ask; even with a newcomer as good as this one.

And while we can draw all the comparisons we want between Kia’s latest and its now defunct rivals, it’s ultimately the job of the punter to give the Stinger a go. Time will tell…

Of course the 2.0-litre model tested here will also likely appeal to family buyers for whom the twin-turbo variant is a bridge too far. There’s adequate space in the boot (406 litres, or 90 fewer than the VF Commodore), and in the back seat. More than its medium car competitors, it’s the backseat where the Stinger measures-up well against Commodore and Falcon.

It also doesn’t hurt that the Stinger rides and handles like a rear-drive family sedan should. Aussie buyers love a tenacious corner hugger with the rough-road ride quality to match, and on this front, the Kia doesn’t disappoint.

Where does it fit?
The Stinger will rival large family sedans, including the recently departed locally produced Ford Falcon and Holden Commodore.

Sitting in the VFACTS Large <$70,000 segment it now vies with the Hyundai Genesis, Peugeot 508 and Skoda Superb. It will also compete with the upcoming Genesis G70.

We also consider the Stinger a realistic alternative to so-called Medium segment cars like the Ford Mondeo, Mazda 6 and Toyota Camry, albeit with a much higher starting price. Compared with those models – and the outgoing Holden Commodore (from $35,490) – the Stinger is expensive, the entry-grade 200S retailing from $45,990 (plus ORCs).

So, what do we think?
Overall our view of the Stinger is a positive one. It offers the kind of space, style and dynamism Australian buyers demand, and is packed with the latest safety and infotainment tech. The trouble is, it comes at a price we think many won’t stump for.

Yes, the Stinger offers a lot for the money. But we can’t help thinking – especially given the timing of the Kia’s arrival – that a comparison to the price of the now-defunct Commodore range is inevitable. Even at its entry point, the Stinger is considerably dearer than the base-grade Holden; the 200Si on test comparable to the V8-powered Commodore SS Sportwagon ($51,690) or V6-powered Calais ($50,750).

And while we’re certain red-blooded Holden buyers and those wanting a four-cylinder Stinger are a world apart, the judgement cast on Kia’s newcomer is, for now at least, poignant; and how Kia Australia moves the game forward is an approach we’ll watch with great interest.

2017 Kia Stinger 200Si pricing and specifications:
Price: $52,990 (plus on-road costs)
Engine: 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol
Output: 182kW/353Nm
Transmission: Eight-speed automatic
Fuel: 8.8L/100km (ADR Combined) / 8.9L/100km (as tested)
CO2: 201g/km (ADR Combined)
Safety Rating: TBA

Related reading:
>> Kia reveals full Stinger details
>> Kia Stinger Australian Launch Review
>> Kia Stinger v Genesis G70 Comparison