Kia Stinger hatchback (2018-2022) review - Interior & comfort
The interior is smart and modern, if a bit bland, but ride quality is good
The Kia Stinger has a well finished and uncluttered interior that looks modern if not hugely stylish. It’s not the most distinctive – similarities with other car interiors out there are clear to see – but it's a comfortable place to spend long journeys. The infotainment system is logical and the climate control buttons are easy to reach.
Facelifted models come with a larger, crisper screen that takes pride of place on top of the dashboard, plus a new seven-inch digital display between the dials, different metallic trim and a frameless rear-view mirror. While the dials themselves aren’t digital like they are in an Audi or BMW, the display brings up images from the 360-degree camera, virtually getting rid of any blind spots as a result.
With the adaptive dampers in the Comfort setting, the car deals with bumps and rough tarmac nicely, making it a competent GT for long journeys. Even on lesser models that don't have the dampers, the ride is still impressive, particularly with the smaller 18-inch wheels; the car never crashes over potholes and refinement at high speed is excellent. The car’s steering is well weighted, but can’t quite match the communication or precision offered by rivals like the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe.
The leather-clad seats look the part but we weren't hugely impressed with comfort levels on long journeys - one 200-mile stint behind the wheel caused some mild back ache. Of course, people come in different shapes and sizes but it's worth testing the seats before you buy the car.
Equipment
The Kia Stinger now only comes in the range-topping GT-S specification. There’s a kit list to back up its flagship status, however.
The new screen includes Bluetooth, digital radio, sat nav, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the display for the reversing camera. You also get front and rear parking sensors, a head-up display, wireless phone charging, heated electric front seats and an electric tailgate.
On top of that is a 15-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, LED headlights, upgraded Brembo brakes, adaptive dampers and 19-inch alloy wheels. Safety kit is excellent too.
Options
The Stinger comes in Ember Orange as standard, with a range of metallic paint colours available as options. Besides that, the standard kit list means you don’t need to add thousands of pounds of options, like you might be tempted to with some of the Stinger’s rivals.
