New Models
New Models

2020 Kia Stinger GTS gets AWD with Drift Mode

But it's only a special edition, and it's only for the North American market. Don't write off a similar exterior package for Australia, though.


The all-wheel drive Kia Stinger has more traction than its rear-wheel drive counterpart, but that comes at a cost. Drifting, to be specific.

A new iteration of the all-wheel drive system offered in left-hand drive markets, dubbed Dynamic AWD, aims to close that gap.

It defaults to a fairly conservative power split in Comfort, sending 60% of the engine's torque to the rear axle, but flipping into Sport ups that to 80%. If you're feeling like a proper hooligan, Drift forces 100% to the rear axle.

There's also a new 'Slip Control and Counter Steer Detection' system on hand to make sure your smokey slides don't end in tears.

The transmission has been remapped, too, so it doesn't upshift while you're mid slide.

BMW M and Mercedes-AMG offer the same capability but it's reserved for the M5 and E63 S, both of which cost upwards of $200,000.

Power comes from the same 3.3-litre twin-turbocharged V6 we know, making 272kW and 510Nm. It's hooked up to the same eight-speed automatic transmission we get in Australia.

Along with its clever new all-wheel drive system, the Stinger on show in New York wears a raft of fast-looking add-ons. The grille, mirror caps and side vents are all finished in carbon-fibre – actual carbon-fibre, not fake carbon-fibre – contrasting with the Federation Orange finish.

There are unique GTS badges and a bigger Stinger badge on the boot, too. Inside, the steering wheel and centre console are trimmed in Alcantara, and the headliner is finished in suede.

Kia America has added options like a sunroof, a 720W audio system and wireless phone charging, too. Just 800 examples will be built, and the package is available on the rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive model.


Australia 

Kia Australia says we don't get all-wheel drive "and have no plans to change that. In addition this is a domestic market special edition that the US has developed up for itself".

With that said, we'd suggest a similar equipment package isn't beyond the realm of possibility Down Under, albeit without all-wheel drive.

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