The Kia Stinger GTS arrives: a spicier version of the Korean saloon with 370 CV and Drift Mode

The sports saloon segment has regained momentum thanks to new arrivals such as the Kia Stinger, a model with which the Korean brand aims to convey a new message. Thanks to it, we have seen the clear intentions of Kia to come back with much more force, something it demonstrates again with the newly presented GTS variant. These initials bring out an even more sporty and spicy character of the Kia saloon, which it achieves with a more striking look and a new driving mode called Drift Mode.

However, this new condition of drift machine granted to the Kia Stinger will be within reach of only a few fortunate buyers, since just 800 units of the GTS will be produced. With this premise, we should expect not only a substantial rise in the purchase price on the current market, but also once it becomes part of the used market.

More power and fun behind the wheel of the Stinger GTS

The Kia Stinger was born with a very clear raison d’être: to offer a perfect balance between comfort and sportiness. However, the Korean brand has wanted to accentuate one of those two traits with this GTS variant which, without giving up the comfort the saloon naturally offers, has managed to bring out a spicier and more playful side of the Stinger.

To do so, the GTS badge includes various parts finished in carbon fibre and a new, much more eye-catching and distinctive colour. However, the real novelty lies in its D-AWD all-wheel drive system, which is capable of delivering calm, subdued behaviour and, at the same time, unleashing the beast.

This multiple personality is managed through three driving modes, which are called Comfort, Sport and Drift. In the first, engine power is split between both axles at 40:60, a figure that rises to 20:80 in Sport mode and culminates in sending 100% of the torque and power to the rear axle in Drift Mode.

This third mode is made possible by a limited-slip differential that is present in this Kia Stinger GTS. Alongside this ability to send all the power to the rear wheels, there is a 3.3-litre twin-turbo V6 engine capable of generating 370 CV of power and 510 Nm of torque, performance managed through an 8-speed automatic gearbox.

RWD and D-AWD for America, but what about the rest of the world

For now, Kia will offer this GTS variant with rear-wheel drive or with the innovative D-AWD system for the American market. In that market the RWD version will have a starting price of 44,000 dollars, a figure that rises to 46,500 dollars if you opt for the Stinger GTS D-AWD.

This is how the Korean brand has wanted to strengthen the presence of its flagship saloon in the market, although it is still unknown whether it will reach Europe or other continents. If so, we could expect a batch of different limited-production units for each market, thus ensuring that the exclusivity of the new Kia Stinger GTS remains intact.