KIA Stinger GT

[StingerGT]

- Menus were not as intuitive as in my BMW. They seemed overly complex and not as well thought-out. But good menu layout is not consistent across the German marques - I rather dislike Merc's COMAND system, and the Kia's was no worse than this (and it may be better).

- Lack of Navigation. This feature has not been brought into the Singapore market. The salesman explained they have something called Android Auto and it can sync to Google Maps on the phone, but I'm not so tech savvy haha, so I'd rather have a dedicated Nav system in the car. I know this is available in the top tier US-market models, so it's just that they didn't bring it into SG, probably to keep the OMV low.

- Servicing package not as attractive as that of some German rivals - my Bimmer gets 5 years parts and labour free, but if I understood the salesman correctly, Kia is not giving free servicing for anywhere near as long.

 

 

Yup no dedicated Nav for local Stingers. You can get maps via Android Auto or Apple Car Play.. meaning you need a phone plugged into the USB slot.

 

Servicing package: Some of us got $500 svc credits, I got $3000 svc credits.. it depends on when you buy. But yeah, overseas they have 7 year warranty but locally somehow only 5 years. I won't say it's the best out there but already ahead of its competitors and most brands locally. My A4 and Q5 svc is only 3 x free servicing.. just saying.

 

As for head unit accessibility, I come from being too spoilt by Audi's MMI system, so the nearest one that seemed okay were BMW's iDrive, the Comand system from MB is a far cry from these two. Yet, the one in the Stinger doesn't feel too shabby, in terms of speed, layout & graphics but yeah, up to the individual 

[1fast1]

Yup no dedicated Nav for local Stingers. You can get maps via Android Auto or Apple Car Play.. meaning you need a phone plugged into the USB slot.

 

Servicing package: Some of us got $500 svc credits, I got $3000 svc credits.. it depends on when you buy. But yeah, overseas they have 7 year warranty but locally somehow only 5 years. I won't say it's the best out there but already ahead of its competitors and most brands locally. My A4 and Q5 svc is only 3 x free servicing.. just saying.

 

As for head unit accessibility, I come from being too spoilt by Audi's MMI system, so the nearest one that seemed okay were BMW's iDrive, the Comand system from MB is a far cry from these two. Yet, the one in the Stinger doesn't feel too shabby, in terms of speed, layout & graphics but yeah, up to the individual 

Yes, that's right, now I remember - the servicing was based on credits, and that's a bit of a crapshoot (unpredictable). Cycle seems to work that way across all its marques.

 

HU and UI - I actually wanted to add something in my original post about how I had no experience with Audis (and so no frame of reference for it). So Audis have a really good system? That's nice to know - I'll have to try it out soon.

 

It's not so much that I'm not tech savvy (lol), but I prefer to have a dedicated system rather than messing about with my phone. Phones can run out of charge, etc.

[StingerGT]

Yes, that's right, now I remember - the servicing was based on credits, and that's a bit of a crapshoot (unpredictable). Cycle seems to work that way across all its marques.

 

HU and UI - I actually wanted to add something in my original post about how I had no experience with Audis (and so no frame of reference for it). So Audis have a really good system? That's nice to know - I'll have to try it out soon.

 

It's not so much that I'm not tech savvy (lol), but I prefer to have a dedicated system rather than messing about with my phone. Phones can run out of charge, etc.

 

I'd prefer having a dedicated Nav too. But no choice, we're at the mercy of the AD. 

 

As for servicing, give you a bunch of svc credits then you pay for expensive servicing.. LPPL to me. First servicing for Stinger 2.0T (express service with oil change) already took away $360 svc credits. You know I know lah 

[1fast1]

I'd prefer having a dedicated Nav too. But no choice, we're at the mercy of the AD. 

 

As for servicing, give you a bunch of svc credits then you pay for expensive servicing.. LPPL to me. First servicing for Stinger 2.0T (express service with oil change) already took away $360 svc credits. You know I know lah 

Can't praise you for this post, but I completely agree.

 

For BMW M division, the servicing is "free" for 5 years, but that means you have to respect their intervals (no early oil changes unless you pay for it - and that's what I did for the first servicing) and they will skimp on things like brake pad changes even when the computer indicates they're due (they just "recalibrate" stuff to make the reminder go away!). Still, 5 years free servicing is nothing to sniff at, which is one reason I'm keeping my M140i bone stock for now (the main reason is that my wife drives it daily, no further explanation needed, I think. ).

 

My AMG service experience was better despite the small detail about having to pay for it every time - my service advisor looked the other way from my piggyback (it was no picnic to de-install).

 

So yours is the 2.0? I assume you test drove the 3.3 as well? How do they compare?

Edited September 26, 2018 by Turboflat4

[StingerGT]

 

 

(For those people considering the Stinger 2.0T or GT)

 

Since performance is a major factor when buying cars like the Stinger, GT or 2.0T, (and also price), the simple table above aims to show what the Stinger can do compared to its competitors, excel at it & even come out on top, but most importantly doing so at a much lower price. (Above is only meant to compare the tangibles.. since I can't put a price tag on "branding" and equipment list differ too much already from car to car)

 

Price, give & take abit lah since above is based on listed price for competitors.. they should be at least another $10K-15K lesser than listed if they practice what Audi usually do.

 

I chose to omit the Opel Insignia GS because it will make it look bad. Priced like the GT but much slower than the 2.0T 

[1fast1]

 

 

(For those people considering the Stinger 2.0T or GT)

 

Since performance is a major factor when buying cars like the Stinger, GT or 2.0T, (and also price), the simple table above aims to show what the Stinger can do compared to its competitors, excel at it & even come out on top, but most importantly doing so at a much lower price. (Above is only meant to compare the tangibles.. since I can't put a price tag on "branding" and equipment list differ too much already from car to car)

 

Price, give & take abit lah since above is based on listed price for competitors.. they should be at least another $10K-15K lesser than listed if they practice what Audi usually do.

 

I chose to omit the Opel Insignia GS because it will make it look bad. Priced like the GT but much slower than the 2.0T 

Nice table. I notice you omitted the Giulia Quadrifoglio, but that's not exactly comparable price-wise (it's also much more powerful despite having a lower displacement). I also tested that a few months ago and may write it up soon, but that's another story.

Edited September 26, 2018 by Turboflat4

[StingerGT]

Can't praise you for this post, but I completely agree.

 

For BMW M division, the servicing is "free" for 5 years, but that means you have to respect their intervals (no early oil changes unless you pay for it - and that's what I did for the first servicing) and they will skimp on things like brake pad changes even when the computer indicates they're due (they just "recalibrate" stuff to make the reminder go away!). Still, 5 years free servicing is nothing to sniff at, which is one reason I'm keeping my M140i bone stock for now (the main reason is that my wife drives it daily, no further explanation needed, I think. ).

 

My AMG service experience was better despite the small detail about having to pay for it every time - my service advisor looked the other way from my piggyback (it was no picnic to de-install).

 

So yours is the 2.0? I assume you test drove the 3.3 as well? How do they compare?

 

Bro yours is M car    I think normal BMW don't have free servicing like yours (someone correct me if i'm wrong).

 

Yup mine is 2.0T. I probably can't stomach the additional running costs of having the 3.3 v6 with my high mileage usage of 35,000 annually.. and the additional premium upfront $40-45K. But I did test drove the 3.3 v6. Let's just say, power is addictive & I won't rule out the possibility of getting the 3.3 v6 one day if my lifestyle no longer have the need for such high mileage.

[benoit16]

for the servicing I think they changed the model after may/June.

 

Mine was bought during Feb. I had 3 yrs svcing and 888 svc credits due to CNY promo

[teomingern]

Stinger (4.83m) is slightly longer for overall length & wheel base than BMW 4series and the Audi A5.. even though these 2 are meant to be its direct competitor.

 

2.0T vs BMW 430i / Audi A5 Sportback

3.3 v6 vs BMW 440i / Audi S5 Sportback

 

You can throw VW Arteon into the mix though performance wise it's in between the 2.0T and 3.3 v6 Stinger. In local market, another option would be the Opel Insignia Grandsport. But sluggish engine, slow gearbox, overpriced ($197K same as 3.3 v6 Stinger), spoils the otherwise nice design. 256bhp 400nm 8AT but 7.3s century sprint

 

To put it into perspective, both the above BMW 430i and Audi A5 SB cost $100K more than the 2.0T. The 440i and S5 SB will cost $80K and $100K more than the Stinger GT too.

 

If you wanna pit the 2.0T Stinger against cheapest BMW 520i and MB E200.. the Stinger is still 100K cheaper while being almost 3 seconds faster to 100km/h. If you wanna pit the Stinger's 6 seconds sprint accordingly to BMW 530i and MB E300, the 2.0T Stinger is even better value, since it's $115K cheaper with the Bimmer and $140K with the E300.

 

That's why I say Stinger is quite on its own. Offering a lot for much lesser. But whether people can spot that "alot" objectively, is another question.

 

 

FYI. Seems like the price fluctuate quite a bit.

 

When I bought mine in late July, I was quoted $151,999. Others who bought a few days after, got quoted $150K (cheapest in the same period) and some got $155K / $157K and later on even $161K. I dunno why so much diff.

Fine analysis bro... well done! Enjoyed reading it...

[Mkl22]

 

 

(For those people considering the Stinger 2.0T or GT)

 

Since performance is a major factor when buying cars like the Stinger, GT or 2.0T, (and also price), the simple table above aims to show what the Stinger can do compared to its competitors, excel at it & even come out on top, but most importantly doing so at a much lower price. (Above is only meant to compare the tangibles.. since I can't put a price tag on "branding" and equipment list differ too much already from car to car)

 

Price, give & take abit lah since above is based on listed price for competitors.. they should be at least another $10K-15K lesser than listed if they practice what Audi usually do.

 

I chose to omit the Opel Insignia GS because it will make it look bad. Priced like the GT but much slower than the 2.0T 

 

recently i have been using this site for comparison of fuel economy, horsepower and acceleration times. i found the figures quite accurate.

http://www.automobile-catalog.com/

 

[StingerGT]

to me a sedan is a sedan, be it sport or luxury.

 

i benchmark it to sheer dimensions for comparison.

 

 

Read the review for Skoda Superb. 2.0TSI 6DSG.. 3 trims locally all the same engine $123K/$139K/$156K. 

 

Almost same size as the Stinger but exterior & interior wise really different style. Superb has a more understated, tamed handsome beauty while the Stinger shouts sportiness all over. In this aspect, it seems to be targeting different buyers. Performance wise, 7 seconds to 100km/h at 1.45 ton isn't too shabby.

 

I think the Superb is a good buy if you get the base or middle trim but the 3rd one is priced too close to the Stinger while not offering exactly anything more.. at then you'd lose the only major factor that the Superb wins on & that is value (in my opinion).

[1fast1]

Read the review for Skoda Superb. 2.0TSI 6DSG.. 3 trims locally all the same engine $123K/$139K/$156K.

 

Almost same size as the Stinger but exterior & interior wise really different style. Superb has a more understated, tamed handsome beauty while the Stinger shouts sportiness all over. In this aspect, it seems to be targeting different buyers. Performance wise, 7 seconds to 100km/h at 1.45 ton isn't too shabby.

 

I think the Superb is a good buy if you get the base or middle trim but the 3rd one is priced too close to the Stinger while not offering exactly anything more.. at then you'd lose the only major factor that the Superb wins on & that is value (in my opinion).

There's a Skoda event this weekend, organised with One Shift. I had signed up, then realised I actually had stuff to do, so I cancelled.

 

They don't have the 245 model in stock anyway. I've asked them to call me when it comes in.

 

Sorry to go OT.

[inlinesix]

recently i have been using this site for comparison of fuel economy, horsepower and acceleration times. i found the figures quite accurate.

http://www.automobile-catalog.com/

 

 

You found my secret source.

[StingerGT]

There's a Skoda event this weekend, organised with One Shift. I had signed up, then realised I actually had stuff to do, so I cancelled.

 

They don't have the 245 model in stock anyway. I've asked them to call me when it comes in.

 

Sorry to go OT.

 

VRS245 is like $20-30K cheaper than the Stinger 2.0 GT Line.. gotta say the VRS245 is really good value.

 

Bro are you getting one? For helper to do marketing is it? 

Edited September 28, 2018 by StingerGT

[Kar_lover]

Read the review for Skoda Superb. 2.0TSI 6DSG.. 3 trims locally all the same engine $123K/$139K/$156K. 

 

Almost same size as the Stinger but exterior & interior wise really different style. Superb has a more understated, tamed handsome beauty while the Stinger shouts sportiness all over. In this aspect, it seems to be targeting different buyers. Performance wise, 7 seconds to 100km/h at 1.45 ton isn't too shabby.

 

I think the Superb is a good buy if you get the base or middle trim but the 3rd one is priced too close to the Stinger while not offering exactly anything more.. at then you'd lose the only major factor that the Superb wins on & that is value (in my opinion).

 

The "brand issue" of Stinger being a Kia has been discussed quite a bit. I wonder where Skoda stands in relation to Kia in that area.

[StingerGT]

The "brand issue" of Stinger being a Kia has been discussed quite a bit. I wonder where Skoda stands in relation to Kia in that area.

 

Can't say Skoda is more attractive branding wise since it's basically a cut price version of VW. Then again Stinger doesn't have much branding pull. It's desirability is instead derived from the design and its value for money performance.

 

Then again some people are more into branding.. some not really. Its not an issue if you don't focus on it.

[Mockngbrd]

How's the ownership experience so far? 

[StingerGT]

How's the ownership experience so far? 

 

Okay lor, surpassed my expectations of it being a Korean car. Now 2800km done. People who sat in it are thoroughly impressed too, things like space, comfort, design, toys in the cabin and performance. As mentioned, a lot of time I forgot I'm driving a Korean car. A good all rounder that doesn't lose to the contis I've had before this.

 

If one come from a comfort based, albeit floaty suspension, then they will need more time to adjust to the stiffer suspension in the Stinger.. over bumpy road or some carparks ramp, it shows alot. 

 

Some small neat touches:

1. When you walk up to the car, the side mirror opens out and the LEDs under it + the ones at the door handles will light up, even without you unlocking the car

2. When you turn off engine wanna leave the car, it will prompt you that you have something on the wireless charging pad

3. You can use reverse cam in D mode

 

If I wanna complain:

1. Lack of heated side mirrors

2. Lack of SD card slot

3. Rear view visibility quite poor (but you can use the reverse cam)