Stinger

Make
Kia
Segment
Sedan

Kia has announced that production of the Stinger will soon cease and has introduced a special Tribute Edition model to say goodbye to the sports sedan. Limited to just 1,000 examples worldwide, the special edition builds upon the 3.3-liter V6 GT model producing 368 horsepower and 376 lb-ft of torque. The final model also receives unique exterior touches, including a new matte grey paint finish called Moonscape. Ascot Green will also be made available.

Regardless of which color you choose, all models receive black-painted side mirror caps, 19-inch wheels, and Brembo brake calipers. Inside, Kia has trimmed the sports seats in tasteful Terracotta brown leather. The hide extends to the steering wheel, door cards, and the door pulls.

Lastly, sporty carbon-fiber effect inlays adorn various surfaces in the cabin.

To distinguish it from lesser models, Kia has placed a numbered plaque on the driver's side door sill plate to authenticate the fact that this is a limited edition model. A wasp-shaped emblem has also been embossed into the headrests.

"The Stinger Tribute Edition denotes an important chapter in the story of Kia's high-performance ethos," said the automaker's Chang Sung Ryu. "Featuring an exclusive color and interior trim never before seen on the sedan, it also serves as a fitting celebration of the Stinger's contribution to the Kia brand."

Rumors of the Stinger's death first surfaced in October, suggesting it would be retired in April 2023. Reports indicated the sedan did not fit in with Kia's electrification strategy and that the all-electric EV6 GT would be its indirect replacement.

Not long after, Kia confirmed that the high-performance EV6 GT would replace the Stinger in the United Kingdom. At the time, a Kia USA representative told CarBuzz that "Kia America has made no official announcement on the Stinger and ... can't comment on markets outside the US. It remains in our lineup of award-winning vehicles."

Just when production will cease and for how long order books remain open remains to be seen, but CarBuzz has reached out to Kia for comment in this regard.

"As we enter a new age of mobility, Kia will satisfy the needs of customers who seek to enjoy elevated levels of dynamic driving pleasure through high-performance electrified models such as the EV6 GT," added Sung Ryu. "And the brand's strategy to continue accelerating the development of innovative electrification technologies will ensure that sustainability and strong performance combine effortlessly under the Kia badge."