The recently revealed Kia Stinger is a complete game changer for the Korean automaker. The rear-wheel-drive sedan will certainly shake things up for the Korean armaker, and could lead to even bigger and better things. In the US, the Stinger will be available with either a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo or a 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6. These engines should give American consumers plenty to choose from with 255 and 365 horsepower respectively. However, like with most foreign-built luxury sedans, there will also be a diesel engine sold only in Europe.

The diesel engine is a 2.2-liter turbocharged four-cylinder unit that produces around 197 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque. Like most diesel engines, peak torque is available low-down between 1,750 and 2,750 rpm. With the diesel, the Stinger can hit 62 mph in 8.5 seconds, which is pretty far off the V6's 5.1 sprint. With all engine configurations, the Stinger is available with either RWD or AWD mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. RWD cars will be the enthusiasts choice thanks to an optional mechanical limited slip differential. Furthermore, larger engine models benefit from better tire and brake combinations that improve performance.

2.2-liter diesel models ride on 225/50R17 tires as standard, 2.0-liter gas engine models are fitted with 225/45 R18 tires and the 3.3-liter V6 gets high-performance 225/40 R19 and 255/35 R19 tires on the front and rear respectively. V6 models also get ventilated disc brakes from Brembo as standard. Clearly the diesel Stinger is only an option for someone who wants great looks, but doesn't need to be as sporty. Typically, we don't receive cars like this in the US. Take the Chevy SS for example. Rather than sell a much less powerful version of the car, Chevy simply sells the far less sporty Impala which is a similar size. The US may not get the diesel Stinger, but we really aren't mad.

Certain cars, like the Volkswagen Scirocco don't fit the personality of a diesel engine. We think that the Stinger was the star of the Detroit Auto Show, and a diesel engine wouldn't do this beautiful sedan the proper justice in the performance department. For once, Europe can keep its diesel.