2022 Kia Stinger Comes With Pair of Bad News for Canadians

Announced several months ago, the refreshed 2022 Kia Stinger will arrive at Canadian dealerships this spring and we finally have all the important details.

Quite a few potential customers will likely be disappointed, however.

• Also: 2020 Kia Stinger: Unfairly Shunned
• Also: New Kia Stinger Coming With Fresh Styling, Beefier Turbo Engine

There are two reasons. First, while Kia is replacing the old turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine (255 hp, 260 lb-ft) with a more powerful 2.5-litre unit (300 hp, 311 lb-ft) in select markets, it won’t be the case here. That means the twin-turbocharged 3.3-litre V6 will remain the only option with the Stinger. Incidentally, output has just been increased from 365 to 368 horsepower.

Second, another entry-level model is gone. After the GT-Line, we now say goodbye to the GT, which carried a base MSRP of $44,995 for 2021. Consequently, the cheapest 2022 Stinger you can buy is the GT Limited at $50,495. As for the exclusive Neon Orange edition, it gives way to a new top-line trim called GT Elite at $52,995.

The pictures you see here show the updated design featuring Kia’s new logo, black 19-inch alloy wheels, redesigned taillights, a more aggressive diffuser and larger-diameter quad exhaust tips. A new body colour, Ascot Green, is also available for 2022.

Inside, the centre display now measures 10.25 inches and there’s a dimpled, aluminum console hairline combined with a newly applied mood lamp line on the passenger side. Some of the finishes have been revised and a frameless rear-view mirror is included, as well.

A new available suede package in GT Elite trim offers suede seat inserts, headliner material, pillar material, dash, door panels and sun visors, plus available red stitching and seatbelts.

Smart key remote engine start is another upgrade along with the UVO Intelligence app that includes remote seat heating and ventilation.

When it comes to performance, despite the missing 2.5-litre turbo, enthusiasts should be pleased with the new electronic exhaust valve system incorporating a small butterfly valve in the exhaust that remains closed in Comfort and Eco mode, but opens in Sport mode to deliver a throatier sound.

This is in addition to the second-generation AWD system and available mechanical limited-slip differential providing more dynamic performance. An eight-speed automatic transmission is still part of the mix.

Keep following The Car Guide in the coming months for a full review of the 2022 Kia Stinger.