KIA's Biggest Mistake? Why The Brilliant Stinger Has Been A Sales Disaster

I love the #KIA #Stinger - everyone that drove it did (except Chris Harris). So, why haven't they sold? I hardly ever see them on the road, versus the other cars in KIA's range which have been runaway successes.
So, today I'm taking the opportunity to revisit this fantastic car and ask - what went wrong?
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[@R-Tap]

To this day I'm a saloon guy, I'll never buy a SUV, crossover etc. with my own money. Quite simply, the best looking Kia so far.

[@trihardcx6743]

Will you ever buy one with someone else's money?

[@chrisogrady28]

I also hate modern hatchbacks, the driving positions feel like small SUVs. Saloons, estates, coupes, cabios, and roadsters are the only cars for me. With manual gearboxes and ideally RWD NA.

[@iSOBigD]

I felt the same until I saw the new Genesis GV80 and the interior of the Bentley SUV. Now there's a car I would buy with someone else's money.

[@stinkintoad]

2015 k900 is better.

[@BySixa]

exactly! don't get me wrong i like coupe's as well, like the e92 shape for instance, but there's no way I could bring myself to own a boring suv, crossover etc. I just couldn't

[@ghogsten]

Bought the 2020. Don’t care what others buy, she’s a fun ride.

[@mauricekwurue4974]

I don't blame you, bro. I will get one hopefully January, after my Acura 2010 Sh-awd sells.

[@mr_bmen1116]

@@mauricekwurue4974 yep and you shouldn't I will buy one next year. Trust me when I say this after they are gone people are gonna say : "the underrated car that nobody bought what a shame kia should bring it back"

[@mauricekwurue4974]

@@mr_bmen1116 Are they being discontinued?

[@simonng2077]

I don’t think Kia did anything wrong. It’s simple badge snobbery. Alpine has the same problem: most people ignore the fact that the A110 is one of the greatest sports cars of the last decade; it doesn’t have a Porsche badge so many people don’t buy it. Their loss :-)

[@bobajob1601]

Me too, love it over here in OZ with our weather!

[@Makingmagic4]

They sold 16,000 Kia stingers in USA for year 2019. That's a solid number for a brand new car In a segment Kia has never been in before.

[@chrislester3662]

Exactly. The plan was for Kia to get their foot in the door. I dont think they expected the Stinger to be a banger. But the Stinger, The Telluride, and the new Seltos are indicative of where Kia wants to be in the coming decade

[@daytonasayswhat9333]

For sure n

[@batmanlives6456]

chess for giants Do they catch fire like their Korean cousins? Hyundai Just rubbish

[@Dmeech100]

Scott Dean we’re in 2020, no car catches on fire. Get your head out of your ass

[@torea6084]

@@Dmeech100 That's not entirely true. Here in little Norway there are about 350 car fires per year on average, so close to one per day. The most common car type is with diesel engine. Very recently one diesel car fire (Opel Zafira 2005) sadly occurred in an airport parking structure (3000 cars capacity), with 1300 cars in that building at the time of the fire, and the fire spread and parts of the structure collapsed. In a larger country, like the USA, there are about 167 ICE car fires per day! So cars do indeed still catch fire.

[@DPEDEN3]

As a Yank, I love this review in the English Country Side, and on wet roads. This is my retirement goal car. Excellent, fair, and extensive review. One of the best that I’ve seen thus far for fairness. Good on you Dude!

[@KREEPYKRAWLLY]

Sales disaster in my book means in a few years, it is an affordable bargain for a very good car :)

[@jaredjoubert2055]

KREEPYKRAWLLY I second that 👏🏼

[@KATHYMEADful]

I don't second that, In a few years the electric's will give out and it will be scrap.

[@julianevans9548]

Yup, benefit from the madness of our society. Still struggling to comprehend a world where the Stelvio outsells the Giulia by 3 to 1.

[@paulj9821]

@@julianevans9548 are you kidding me? The Stelvio out sells in the Non Quadrifoglio versions. Very few QV are being sold. $85,000 for a Stelvio QV or $48,000 for the non QV

[@tony9554]

@@KATHYMEADful Only virtue signally nimrods and people that don't like cars will buy the 4 wheel toasters like the lemmings that buy SUV's cause they're "safer"

[@08Blame]

*not enough promotion. no one knows it exists lol meanwhile, audi bmw and merc ads are spammed everywhere.

[@harshithsadhana7475]

Really true they made few ads never stood out.

[@lightningleaf23]

People are becoming less bothered about engineering and care more about Badges. Same as fashion if a t shirt is excellently made but unbranded versus a cheaply made t shirt that says Armani. People want the Armani. For the price of this people can buy a second hand BMW and irrespective of the quality people will always go with the “ premium “ badge

[@k3ntris]

That’s a blessing in disguise. Something different other than an Audi, BMW or Mercedes on the road. They’ve lost all sense of exclusivity. Now every Tom, Dick and Harry has one.

[@lightningleaf23]

k3ntris I agree totally but it doesn’t help Kia’s sales so they ll abandon the sports or luxury sector as its unprofitable

[@Theaverageazn247]

@@lightningleaf23they fucked up hard in the luxury section. they made sedans vs suv. Its so bad that there were more lambo suvs sold than all of their sport cars combined. The lambo suv has only been around for a few years too

[@wattling1396]

Simple reason we live in a world where people are obsessed with brands and the snobbery is real

[@Handiman544]

Depends entirely on how insecure you are. If you need a badge to give yourself worth, you must have a pretty low opinion of yourself.

[@wattling1396]

@@Handiman544 fully agree

[@philskype101]

and its a shit Kia

[@letsseeif]

You've nailed it. We live in a world where vanity is king (or queen, let's just call it royalty).

[@JayJay-loz]

The reason for brand snobs is. You know what you are getting with certain brands including good customer service. Why buy a nomark make and get stung by deprecation and faults.

[@stew675]

I own a Stinger GT2 in the USA, the wife has a Kia Telluride (SUV) for driving to work/soccer mom duties. She loves her car, and to be honest, I don't mind driving the Telluride either. Put it into the sport driving mode option, and it's got surprising amounts of grip, and far less body roll than you'd expect from an SUV. It's fully specced and has almost every creature comfort you can possibly think of. I used to dislike pretty much all SUVs, but the Telluride changed my mind to that of "they don't all suck". Anyway, so where I'm going with this is that whenever we head out as a family, we have the option of taking either the Stinger or the Telluride. She prefers that I drive, but which of them I drive doesn't personally bother me. Time and time again, she suggests that we take the Stinger, because in her own words, it's smoother, more comfortable, and eats miles like candy. Despite not being as tall, the Stinger still offers a commanding presence on the road by sheer virtue of its power allowing it to be placed wherever the heck it damn well wants to be, and we can fit an awful lot in the rear trunk area before having to resort to using the larger 3-row Telluride SUV. Kia built an amazing car in the Stinger (that also applies to the Telluride too, but for very different reasons). The Stinger is a truly versatile do-it-all machine that challenges the notion that a family "needs" an SUV for family duties, and like the reviewer here says, it's just as capable of driving grandmothers around in comfort as it is bringing out the 18yo hooligan in you as soon as she gets out, before changing roles to a versatile family sedan/daily driver after you're done having fun, but can still be loaded up for a cross-country road-trip in luxury comfort come vacation time. Very few cars offer the broad "many hats" capability that the Stinger offers, and pretty much none at its price point (when new). Personally, I think the main reason for the low sales is sheer badge snobbery. For family daily drivers, people are far less choosy about the badges on the car. Most families just want something, cheap, reliable, and something that will get them from A to B, and not cost a ton to insure and miserly sips at fuel. The Stinger is more than that. It offers a taste of sporting luxury that does cost a fair chunk more than a typical family car, so it naturally falls into the "upmarket" section of the market, and sadly to this day, that lands it smack in the middle of brand snob territory. Here, people would much rather buy a second hand German car for the badge, than spring for the same money for a new car with a Kia badge on it. I reckon they don't know what they're missing out on, but that won't help Kia sell more of them.

[@scorpiuswireless1]

Blah blah blah

[@Tigermoto]

I'd have a Kia Stinger in a heartbeat. But there's a reason I drive a 2006 Volvo S60. It's because £4000 is less than £30000. And that's all I could afford when I bought it.

[@lightningthunder5928]

Lee Butterworth £4000? Do you actually mean £400 which is market value for your 2006 s60

[@Jay-vo1zb]

Moron

[@potatochobit]

well, you could have got a 2008 C30 or S40 too which I think may be a little more reliable with oil leaks.

[@Tigermoto]

Never had a leak, didn't buy it this week. Bought it years ago. Works like a charm, never broken. It was a joke. Have a word with yourselves.

[@henryfrenchuk]

I assume at your valuation you are driving an R in which case respect. If not you're having a laugh

[@gray25xt]

I researched this car in depth and almost bought one. It's simply one of the best cars out there and is an undiscovered gem. It all comes down to two things, (1) people don't respect the Kia badge at this price point and (2) people aren't buying sedans. I found 30 loaded new Stingers for 20% off MSRP within driving distance, sadly it wasn't what we ended up buying due to space/children needs, but for the price especially considering the dealerships are giving deep discounts this is a miracle car. Go drive one and you'll be shocked.

[@tony9554]

true on the second point, the lemmings keep buying their SUV boxes

[@itspabbs]

This car was going to be on my short list, but no M/T option took it off my list.

[@DMillhouze]

I've owned my GT2 in Hawaii now for several months.... and I gotta say.... this car, at this price point, is amazing. Also, what a lot of reviewers don't cover..... is Kia's 10 year 100,000 mile warranty, which is incredible.

[@r.lew7424]

The 10 year/100K mile warranty is awesome, but only available to a new car buyer. The warranty is not transferable to an used car buyer. I'd buy this car used. The badge image challenge makes a new purchase not the best financial decision.

[@DMillhouze]

@@r.lew7424 was a pretty damn good financial decision for me. Especially when you consider that I got them to take $14k off the sticker price. It's not like i am ever planning on selling it.

[@r.lew7424]

@@DMillhouze Given your "buy and hold" mentality and that ridiculous new car discount, I amend my original comment because you were able to pay used car price AND maintain the 100K warranty. Kudos!

[@tommydo961]

Rich Lewis my camry easily reach 100k and it doesnt have 10 years warranty

[@KBzPTGT]

@@r.lew7424 If you get CPO the 10/100 goes with it (i think i read)

[@The_Venerable_Idiot]

I own one and love driving it.... (I'm still in shock because I am a mustang guy at heart which in my opinion just shows how amazing of a job Kia did.)

[@99Lezard99]

im absolutely sure that the brand image still plays a big role in this class of cars. people who are in the market for a car like this will want to have the image.

[@viktorianas]

This phenomenon killed most Japanese and French premium cars from the 90's, rich people want the badge to brag about.

[@99Lezard99]

@@viktorianas true that

[@RandomShart]

True, it's all about the car park trophy.

[@qlus]

Honda nsx is suffering the same fate however ford is interesting as they sell the crappy Ka and the amazing GT

[@kahstonezz]

Uhhh. In the states in the 90's the lexus if im not mistaken was the highest selling luxury brand in the most important market until BMW started to work their magic. Toward the end of the decade.

[@jangruber1929]

The fact that a Kia gets compared to Jags, Mercs and BMWs alone is amazing in my opinion.

[@itzajdmting]

Yes. I just bought one, after having a B Class on order for months and months. Well too bad Merc. Kia was able to deliver, and I'm so glad they did.

[@JethroRose]

yeah i'm sure its a great car. but no one is going to buy one until plenty of other people have done so. and few are willing to take a punt on a kia for the prices they are asking for. cut the standard equipment, make leather an option, get rid of the standard moving glass roof, etc. and get the price down to something reasonable and allow people to option upwards. once the model is established THEN try attacking the higher end of the market. Right now, here in australia for the price of a kia stinger i could buy a grocery getter hot-hatch and *have money left over* for decent condition secondhand SS commodore or XR6 Turbo falcon...

[@largol33t1]

That's because Jaguar and Mercedes are GARBAGE. Their cars are very unreliable and painfully expensive to repair.

[@justjosh11]

@@JethroRose that's not the point, you can't compare new to used. Else I could say for the price of a new 3 series I could instead get a couple of years old fiesta st, and an old xkr, so why would anyone bother buying a new 3 series! When in reality, the person looking to buy a new 3 series isn't looking for 2 older cars

[@DavidOrrissJr]

And I own a GT2.. it's an amazing car and I'd buy it again.. I have zero interest in buying an Audi or BMW after owning this car.

[@dwaynediamond6431]

I agree with everything he said here. I've got over 40 000 km's on my 2019 now and I absolutely love it. I traded in a 2015 mercedes C400 for this and have absolutely no regrets.

[@batmanlives6456]

Dwayne Diamond Just be patient... It will explode shortly You will be sorry

[@whiterabbit2737]

@@batmanlives6456 it wouldn't explode with proper maintenance...

[@robertk8524]

@@batmanlives6456 Lol what? You work for Mercedez or something?

[@mattsoares608]

Bought a 2019 Stinger GT1 - love the car - it gets a compliment EVERY time i go to the gas station. If you people like this car - buy one.

[@tony9554]

Got one too in October, leftover lot queen, but $7 K off MSRP and 3% financing, stoplight sleeper bandit if you want it to be.Otherwise nice touring ride

[@ellepant]

Im jealous there gorgeous

[@robertk8524]

I did and I get compliments all the time too. People circling the car and trying to figure it out because I rebadged it to the original Korean badges. I don't see the hesitation. Not only does it look nice and has the performance numbers... the practicality is very high as well. Got four tires in the back no problem.

[@cantonini]

Agreed. Mine gets comments constantly. Most people have zero idea it's a Kia, as all my badges are either Stinger GT or the "E" badge.

[@eriknephrongfr8847]

Mine’s blue.

[@krisrudecki9477]

I think it's main goal is to establish KIA as a brand, and it's definitely succeeded. Apart from that a really good car.

[@MrHairyTeabag]

@@arnehurnik i30N is a Hyundai (sister company I know)

[@pb7870]

Exactly, the car hasn’t sold well but is more likely to attract people to the brand and build up a fan base so is basically a marketing exercise. Still, the sales are pretty embarrassing and it’s a shame

[@Theaverageazn247]

idk anyone who even knows about the stinger. it had dog shit marketing

[@St1ngerGuy]

I bought a Stinger GT2 in 2018 when they came out. I live in upstate NY and in the 2 years I've had mine I've seen 2 others. I have yet to see a red one like is shown in this review. Everyone loves it and I get lots of compliments, but nobody knows what it is when they first see it. I've actually had people follow me to my destination to ask me about it, it's kinda crazy. Mine is AWD and I've modified it to have closer to 420 WHP, it's scary fast in sport mode, and I love it!

[@JasonGerry1]

@@St1ngerGuy I live in Atlanta, bought a GT2 in that ceramic silver color (love it) about a year and half ago. I have seen 5 or 6 others in that time. I get lots of people asking me about it all the time. Frankly it's a fun car, the only mod I've done is sway bars which really tightens it up. More power, no I'm good with it as it is. For now. 😄

[@derekporter66]

You are about the only car youtuber I don't skip videos on now. Nice work jayyemm

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Thanks for watching!

[@Brass-and-Bullets]

Agreed, true honest reviewer

[@soulstance]

Got 18 GT2 AWD, absolutely love it. This car made me a fan of Korean cars now. This car is butter smooth and gorgeous to look at.

[@TheStillaplaya]

I own a 17 chevy SS and this is the only other new sports sedan I am going to get. The 2018+ gt2 awd version is the one you want to get. I'm still doing research but I have yet to see a complaint about anything but paint on the 17s (only 3 of the colors of stock paint have issues). Pull the trigger bc I'm a tall guy who loves sport sedans and this is the next one for me. Keeping the the chevy SS (holden commodore converted) in the garage and will daily this. Waiting for end of year sales starting in November b4 purchasing

[@halnorgard2700]

7 year warranty here in Australia... Have had my GT now for 8 months... fantastic ride and believe it or not.. they are popping up everywhere now!

[@jeffcunnane8512]

Even Police departments throughout Australia are getting their hands on them.

[@belvederedog3015]

Picked up my Nightsky edition last week. Easily one of the best value cars I have ever owned and I have had some rippers. Loving it and can't wait to do a long trip in it once this curse is over. Enjoy your car.

[@Timodon1]

I just had en 2018 Stinger with diesel engine, i can not hear the engine at all, is so smoth! Fun to drive too! Had an Audi S2 -91 year model before in the early year of 2000! Same feeling now!

[@SkibbidyYibbidy]

We went into my local dealer in Birmingham, and they told me that they didn't sell the Kia stinger from new and didn't have any second hand stock. Doesn't help if the dealers don't have them!

[@invisiblekid99]

When I was getting mine 2nd hand (there should be loads, there was when I got mine) the guy showed me what stock is coming into the UK. There was one (possibly last 2.0ltr) and one V6.

[@adamrileydriver]

Not all dealers could take the Stinger (showroom size rules etc) We have it in available at our Windermere branch if you’d like to have a trip to the lakes!

[@MrSandalwood]

I had one from my local brummie dealership for 4 month got rid of it and got a genesis G90 imported far superior car the stinger was ok but just lacked in every department which by my reckoning makes it shit and the hit I took on 4 month depreciation was spectacular

[@stephenchigwidden7504]

@@MrSandalwood the Kia and the g90 are very similar but have different front and back suspension and of course body work but on the hoist they are closely related.

[@davekwood]

@@MrSandalwood The G90 is also double the price...with a 5 litre V8.....and 420hp....the two are not comparable and each in their own league

[@MrHairyTeabag]

As soon as the 3.3 V6 was 1p over the £40k luxury tax it was doomed. Same is happening to the Ford Mustang V8.

[@invisiblekid99]

Not true, it's still gets the lower price bracket. I should know, I bought one. The reason being that 1year tax is deducted from the sales price (or something like that, I cannot remember exactly what the salesman sad) but it NOT in the higher price bracket.

[@MrHairyTeabag]

Edit - by Jove it looks like your salesman was right www.whatcar.com/advice/buying/car-tax-changes-in-2019-%E2%80%93-what-do-i-need-to-know/n1153 "The list price should include on-the-road costs such as delivery and numberplates but excludes the first year’s road tax and initial registration fee."

[@INSERTNAMEjoe]

What is a luxury tax 😅

[@Messametti]

@@INSERTNAMEjoe In some countries you pay an extra tax like 100% of the sales price on the car if the engine exceeds a certain size because after that its viewed as "luxury". Its some clever bullshit to rip off people who dont want to buy 1.6l cars.

[@qx4n9e1xp]

@@Messametti Don't even call it clever, call it trashy.

[@Enzo_Gorlomi]

Super review my friend. All the infos you need and want. Glad I found this channel.

[@KeithZim]

My 14 Optima has 170000 miles. Just yesterday I was on the interstate cruising at 85mph with no hands on the wheel. Straight as an arrow. Smooth as it was new.

[@muhdiversity7409]

@JayEmm I saw your McLaren videos. As someone that used to work for the firm in Woking years ago I am absolutely horrified at what the company has become. When we were doing the F1 Ron Dennis and Gordon Murray would not have allowed such shoddy practices. I was proud to work for the company.

[@nikb6528]

Another great video that not just covers the car in sufficient detail but also tries to paint the bigger picture around it. Keep up the good work, sir.

[@skampster]

Love my Stinger, best car I’ve owned.

[@cdbig9er]

Is your butt still sore for paying that much for a KIA?

[@skampster]

George Michael Gay comment from the guy with a gay name. Oh, brand snobs are irrelevant.

[@cdbig9er]

skampster Is it mandatory to have a rainbow sticker on your Kia or did you just volunteer ?

[@skampster]

George Michael lol, hating on a car. Life much.

[@cdbig9er]

skampster Just asking a simple question. Well, at least it made it easier than sitting down and telling your parents about coming out. 👍🏽 kudos.

[@GnarkillXIII]

Just picked up a 2020 Stinger GT Limited (Canadian) in January and found your video now. I feel a lot of the same things mentioned in this video and stand by your comment that if people haven't driven one yet they need to. As a daily driver it is a dream to drive. My parents think its a comfortable vehicle styled for a professional,but when you turn that knob to sport mode, it wants to get rowdy! An amazing machine by an underrated company. Great video! Keep up the good work!

[@baronvonhoughton]

I've just finished 3 year lease on a Kia ceed Gt. The unknown hottish hatch. It was awesome, really well made, fab equipment level, drove great, looked great. Best of all it was cheap too!

[@patrickjhorton1]

I drove a ceed GT a few years ago. Thought it was a very underrated car. Not the fastest but it was quick enough and handled ok. Last year I drove a Hyundai i30n and thought it was awful. Brought a BMW 140i

[@jameslove888]

@@patrickjhorton1 What didn't you like about the N? I loved driving it. Exhaust was a riot and you could really feel the diff working through corners.

[@djdrastic1]

Drove one of these and loved it. Couldn't get a decent deal on trade in though :(

[@justblazz9]

Bob Houghton you leased a Kia wtf 🤣🤣🤣 stupid

[@ThatOneDudeNick]

Another year and i'll be looking for a cheap V6 Stinger as a daily. 2018 GT1's are already under $30k USD all day. This will be a steal of a sport sedan for $25k very soon for those of us that aren't bothered by the badge.

[@stefanfreestylez]

Or bothered by that fact that the wind can strip the paint. Its cheap for a reason dude...even new german are getting to be quite cheap. Obviously not nearly as poorly built but still....Lot of cost cutting with almost every premium brand whether its clothing or cars. People want to maximize profits these days. For that 25k id get something more classic and more engaging to drive.

[@THEGAMINGHELP101]

@@stefanfreestylez Even some of the best brands in terms of reliability have had paint problems and other odd problems. We really need to wait 5 years to get a better idea of how cheap the car is made. Don't just look at the brand like a sheep.

[@Truehoon]

@@stefanfreestylez like?

[@stefanfreestylez]

@@THEGAMINGHELP101 go sit in it and feel it take a good hard look at everything theres a reason for it being cheaper. Nbd if you dont care and kia has come a long way but imo can buy muchhhhh better used cars for same price.

[@stefanfreestylez]

@@Truehoon what do you mean? What used car to buy for currently 30k usd? 996,997 and used boxster/cayman, Bmw m cars, used amgs and thats about it. Id rather a 2011+ 335i over this kia and that is wayyy cheaper just saying for price range much better cars out there

[@georgeswanson9483]

It's so nice to see a review for something other than the usual that will get lots of youtube hits. Thanks for putting this out, I really love your channel.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

My pleasure George

[@belvederedog3015]

Excellent review. I picked mine up a week ago here in Australia and it is amazing. Six years ago I had a Merc which cost me more than I paid for my Stinger. The Merc was a fantastic vehicle. If I were to buy the same model of Merc today and option it up with what the Stinger has as standard equipment, it would cost a fortune. I am not sure there is any other equivalent car in Australia that has the same build quality, standard equipment, warranty and performance for the price.

[@DonLee1980]

owned my stinger for 2 years. It's absolutely awesome. The problem for Europe is that the import taxes and the on top VAT, makes the car extra expensive. From where I live, it costs the same as a bare bones 320i. In Europe, it costs between a 330i and a 340i. Plus, there's just a lot of badge snobs and of course they compare the fully optioned Stinger GT vs a bare bones European equivalent. I'm much happy with my Stinger gt that I know I can drive the heck out of it for centuries and the warranty would still be there, unlike my last BMW which puked its guts out every year since the 3rd year of ownership

[@ajwest3081]

Donna Lee - had a similar experience running a 330d from 3 to 6 years old. Cost a fortune to run due to the huge annual maintenance bills - that could only be done at the franchise. Never again. Now lease a new Volvo S60 T5.

[@jackdaley1666]

I've had mine for a year and I love it, I get compliments everywhere I go.

[@stalthalion]

RaoulDuke6666 I bet all those ladies are just beating down yur door pimpin!! Gotta be hard to be yu.! Phewwww

[@robertk8524]

Me too. I don't regret buying the car at all. It's the best all-around car a person can get that looks flashy but not overly so.

[@SilentKnight43]

I got complimented just yesterday by a guy and his GF drivin' a Stingray.

[@troy9er]

Thanks for the information. I’ll Be looking at these used and certified in the future. Best Buy’s are after deprecation. I sold cars for 20 years, learned a lot!

[@duncanwood4313]

Great video. Balanced and fair. I have a 2019 UK Stinger GTS and absolutely love it. I think you have hit the nail on the head in terms of rarity adding to the ownership experience. I am asked about the car every third trip! Keep up the good work Jay.

[@kasparsgrinbergs6001]

Europe gt sells very well .... Excellent premium car .. Design, interior, power, price ...

[@eLKaymusic]

Bought a black GT2 in July 2019. Best decision ever. Kia South Africa made a few mods on mine. Sounds and drives even better.

[@willpark7483]

Lungelo Radebe a dealer modified your car?

[@Elusive25]

@@willpark7483 lol

[@eLKaymusic]

@@willpark7483 It was modded purely for demo purposes and I convinced them to sell it to me. All changes made are under warranty so I'm all good.

[@willpark7483]

Lungelo Radebe What types of mods?

[@eLKaymusic]

@@willpark7483 Louder free flow exhaust, remapped engine management system and a racechip. 255/35/20" tyres with Black Rhino wheels. Also they replaced the aluminum bits in the interior with carbon fibre trim.

[@sutterlinm]

I live my 2018 gt2 stinger. One of my favorite cars I've ever owned

[@josephmoorison2200]

Got my base Stinger, last June, and I love every minute of it!!!

[@alibenkhalid4192]

i LOVE this style of car reviews, keep up the hustle!

[@doalwa]

Just got back from a customer here in Germany who drives a Stinger. He’s the CEO of the company and drove BMW before...he loves the car.

[@stonekazuya]

why did i get the feeling that this channel gonna be my favorite car review channel after top gear?

[@Titanium59]

Bought one of the first in Australia, now had it 2-1/2 years. Just brilliant. Best car I have owned, and I've had some nice Euros. And to date, NOTHING has gone wrong with it. Nothing. Surely a future classic, especially if there are so few around? But definitely not the car for badge snobs.

[@eyecontrol4900]

such a shame it isnt offered in a manual here in Aus

[@lvthud]

I can tell you what held me back from buying one here in the states, the dealership, when you are spending $50k + on a car it's not a necessity and KIA dealerships (at least here) can't wrap their heads around that, they had the same issue when I went to look at a K900, great car, horrible dealership experience. Yes KIA puts out some great cars, give the Telluride the Stinger engine and I will buy one tomorrow and put up with the dealership, but that is the exception.

[@deadkemper]

Kia are missing a trick by not giving the UK the Telluride. I honestly think they could sell loads

[@jameshamilton533]

You buy a car, not a dealership experience. If you want to pay over the top for a fancy brand just to get a nice coffee and to be fawned over for 5 mins in a dealership then go for it.

[@tony9554]

That's a known weakness in the KIA brand, less than stellar dealers. But I've walked out of BMW & Porsche dealers because they're snots

[@deadkemper]

@@tony9554 yes you are right, at the end of the day car salesmen have this stigma of being awful , maybe because it's a high pressure low paid basic wage...people buy from people, i've walked out of a Toyota dealership because they were rubbish and i spent 37k in one in a different city

[@dchawk81]

I was surprised by my local Lincoln dealer. I traded down from a Jeep Rubicon to a Buick Verano after work still in my work boots, jeans, and flannel and they treated me just as well as if I was buying their 90k Navigator.

[@Yanmak13]

Your reviews are getting better and better. Your commentary, the footage, the editing. Great content! Thank you!

[@OldTwitTalksCars]

New to your channel. Love it. Thanks very much for sharing your knowledge. A big inspiration.

[@geraldswain3259]

Really grown to love this channel, all ways interesting, honest, knowledgeable, doesn't take himself to seriously. Really Seems like a genuine nice chap.

[@seabreezeuk4]

Great review and love the car. Almost bought one actually, but it was the gearbox (reverts to auto when you don’t want it to), the dull exhaust (needs something more special on the V6) and at the time NO discounts at all which put me off. Hopefully the facelift rectifies these minor issues...

[@DJNokem]

I found your channel thanks to your videos about your friends experiences with McLaren and I boy am I glad you do reviews as well. Well thought out, detailed insights and you aren't a 'lad' reviewer basing opinions on how many birds you'd pick up down the local maccy Ds on a saturday night. Subbed.

[@visionist7]

I pikk'd up three birds down the burger king innit

[@jameshamilton533]

Jumped out of a Mercedes and into a Stinger and never looked back. This car has single handedly changed my perception not just of Kia, but also of those expensive over-rated and over-priced Euro brands.

[@MiguelRPD]

What makes this car better than Mercedes in your opinion?

[@jameshamilton533]

@@MiguelRPD Quality, reliability, features, price, warranty, servicing costs, looks....

[@dchawk81]

@@jameshamilton533 How long have you had it?

[@RobimusPrime]

Yeah...suuuuurrree you had a Mercedes; Kia employee.🙄

[@vmax1399]

Quite right BMW fine when you are on a lease or warranty over 5 years old forget about because I have so many electrical glitches I know there lovely to drive superb engines when they're working swirl flaps sensor fails I've had so many owners that being in denial until their pockets can't stand no more and the dealers are rather cynical it's almost as if they have algorithms in this software this is going to fail at such and such or is that just me getting paranoid

[@birdseyeview1543]

The aftermarket has recently exploded, watch this model take off. Glad I got one!

[@petersimpson8386]

What a tool, looks so well planted and nicely screwed together, it's just the badge that's the stinger, if it doesn't start with an A B M OR P it's out.....that's just the way it is. Great vid J really nicely done.

[@chrisogrady28]

Only reason I didn’t consider one is the lack of a manual option. Also ‘coupaloon’ is my new favourite word.

[@nikb6528]

Coupaloon*

[@chrisogrady28]

Daniel Hernandez yes definitely, powerful RWD manual cars are a unique driving experience, especially in winter, having a lot of fun at the moment.

[@chrisogrady28]

Nik B edited :)

[@bluewanderer9903]

Its a fastback... And I personally prefer analog dials as long as they arent red and blue ☺ Lovely review, loved how you worded driving experience without reading spec sheet.

[@ejjie4775]

I have a GT Stinger and our police force has them as well in Australia. I recommend it to anyone for its value for $$$$. Great car all round.

[@batmanlives6456]

Peter Marcia NSW cops rejected them as rubbish

[@jademanuella3986]

Scott Dean lol what dyu drive pal

[@richardsmith2879]

People buy badges, they don’t know about cars.

[@Handiman544]

That's by people get burned. They buy the badge and regret it later.

[@davidgifford823]

People dont buy anything they rent them! But at least they can feel rich..

[@katana258]

that's the salesman

[@billolsen4360]

@@Handiman544 They want to be seen in it

[@Coupydog]

Truly Stated. People pay good money to get into "garbage" Base Model Mercedes & BMW's (SUVs), even their Service Technicians are embarrassed about 😖

[@JohnHarris-ri4ev]

Great videos mate , I’ve been following your channel for a long time and I love hearing your sophisticated in depth reviews. I would love to see a “series” of best sports cars for under £5000 (example)

[@turbinegraphics16]

Where I am the Stinger costs about the same as a Mustang GT, it has increased my opinion of Kia so they should keep making it and eventually they will get a following.

[@t1328]

I’ve had mine for two year. Absolutely love it.

[@philipreece4648]

Just Ordered my 2nd Stinger GTS (Being Built Now) for delivery in March, absolutely love this car, very true that it is rare, It does get a lot of attention everywhere I go. Excellent review.

[@visionist7]

Colours?

[@qlus]

Why 2nd one?

[@philipreece4648]

In the UK the Colours are Ember Orange (Standard), HiChroma Red (Premium), Pearl White (Premium), Midnight Black (Premium), Ceramic Grey (Premium) & Panthera Metal (Premium) . I have a Ceramic Grey and my New one will be Pearl White. I am getting another one as I got a very good trade in deal and a very good discount on a new one. With the performance and all the kit included and only £145 tax (Does not go into the luxury car tax bracket) it's a bargain. The only downside is servicing is every six months

[@JethroRose]

well... in australia... 70 grand is what went wrong for the TT v6. the only people realistically looking at Kia are those who want a cheap rear drive sports sedan. You won't get BMW or Merc or Audi customers because of the badge. It does not matter HOW GOOD it is. If they want to break into that market they need to get some out at a more reasonable price, even if it means cutting interior stuff. just want rear drive and power. Once they establish themselves, THEN take on BMW, etc. But you simply aren't going to do that out of the box.

[@pewterschmidt23lord99]

Well the other thing is that if you don't need the back doors its cheaper to get a new mustang

[@davetomley3145]

I genuinely wanted to get one of these when new. Things that spoiled it - Rear head room, could have lived with it - Economy, not cheap to run - Pricing, In yellow it fell below the 40k limit that increased your road fund licence as a premium vehicle. Any other colour and up went the cost. - But most of all the Kia PCP deal was awful. A well specked S4 Avant was significantly better, despite a much higher list price. I hope the next gen version learns from the very slight, but costly mistakes that they made this time.

[@ChrisFEJackson]

Not only do I thoroughly enjoy your views and many opinions with respect to cars, I actually read the comments too. I don't usually do this. I really like how you also educate with your opinions, aspects which I never thought I didn't know or realised I need to know. Thanks.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Thanks for your kind words!

[@neophiri4079]

I think what really hurt Alfa was their reputation regarding reliability.

[@jamie49868]

I bought a Giulia TI Sport in Aug of 17. It is a stunner, a runner and I will keep it forever. I have had zero problems an it is simply the best car I have ever owned.

[@kevinnorris6558]

jamie t It hasn’t even been 3 years

[@tom4626]

What hurts Alfa is there direct rivals (VW group and BMW) have better finance deals.

[@jamie49868]

@@kevinnorris6558 You might want to check that. I purchased it 8-21-2017. I will never forget it because there was a total solar eclipse that day, and we stood on Jim Butler Alfa Romeo's parking lot and watched it. You can look it up.

[@jamie49868]

@@tom4626 I financed mine through my credit union. You don't have to use their financing.

[@HG504X]

I want one of these in a stealthy colour, do a few performance mods get it up 400hp at least, it would be a true sleeper.

[@luketreadwell9797]

HG504 with the stilin package (dual intake and exhaust) you’re over 400. With the chip you can buy from kia(doesn’t void warranty, you’re looking at 450-500 (yes I work at Kia lmao

[@tony9554]

@@luketreadwell9797 really what's the part # of the KIA chip so I can take that to the parts counter

[@BennyTheWoo]

I rewarded Kia by buying an early one in 2017... It’s been awesome.... reliable, great drive, cheap service, roomy, different, loaded with spec, and runs high 12’s with a 7 year warranty here in Oz. A bargain, even new!

[@Chuckles9191991]

Have mine a year and a half, love it. 2018 GT1 AWD. Don’t know anything about any maintenance every 6K miles, never heard of it.

[@amberc1034]

My husband and I have a Stinger and absolutely love it! Really a fantastic car.

[@richardneil4673]

amber h is that the queen speaking?

[@Coupydog]

Are U saying, you EACH have one?

[@phil8437]

Really envy you.

[@marcosmartins7581]

I'm just waiting for the Stingers out there to get devalued and I'm certainly getting one in a near future 😉👍🏾 I couldn't care less about the Germans nowadays, Kia is DEF the way to go

[@centurion8446]

Yeah can see these being more prolific as price goes down and people get used to it. Ironically KIA have really come a long way and developed Stinger because of a German Engineer they managed to get into their camp...I'd get one if I could

[@batmanlives6456]

Catholic Firefighter read - paid promotion!

[@khronin]

@@ultraguy8771 They have --there are folks taking them to CarMax and they lose half their value in less then 2 years.Reliability is also spotty to poor for the car.I was almost going to spring for a stelvio the 500 hp model--but managed to talk to some mechanics and a person on facebook that said it is fantastic-----when it works and is not in the shop----.The KIA went through extensive desert testing and many Italian and german cars do not do that and 90% of the US gets very hot in the summer and plays havoc on these cars.KIA warrants it for 10 years on the major powertrain as opposed to 3 and 5 on the Italian cars.Repairs are also on the high side for the car--the KIA is on the low side.As much as I wanted one and the extra 150 HP--a car has to be sensible--and also the Stinger has a 167 mph top speed--that is faster then 95% of the cars you will ever see on the road.Many US spec cars--including m cars--audis--even the stelvio if you did not check the right box all only go 155.I plan on entering my car in the silver state classic and 167 puts the KIA in the class with vettes and other cars that can go over 165.

[@davidyule1973]

Might be 6k service interval, but the service cost is cheaper than anybody else. The longer service interval on German cars also helps the wearing out process - planned obsolescence.

[@Jamminn555]

Brilliant review and insights. Hear, hear! Well said, JayEmm!

[@djbrown5563]

My Stinger turns heads and get compliments every where I go. (Rare) Love to see people throttle pass me on the highway just to get a glimpse of what it can do. I recommend it. At 37k for a GT1; it’s a steal. Now I’m eyeing that Genesis GV80. I’ve been an under dog all my life so I respect when under dogs make a stand. The Kia stinger is an under dog.

[@djbrown5563]

International Merchant Of Hate ok

[@jacobthompson8507]

International Merchant Of Hate You are driving a 24 year old SHITBOX. How can you slag off anyone else’s car? I’d rather shit in my hands and clap than drive a 96” Accord. Stop hating, peasant.

[@tony9554]

@International Merchant Of Hate yeah wait for 8K on the tach. I got my torque coming on @ 1300 rpm, catch me if you can. Japanese cars ain't what they used to be.

[@SpeedRebirth]

VTEC hahaha. Only little kids are impressed by that

[@felixt1470]

International Merchant Of Hate Korean cars are made by dog eaters?? So cars made in Detroit are made by cocaine users?

[@MyersErik]

2019 Black GT2 Singer, red leather here.... love this car! In years to come... this will be one of those sought after cars.

[@89thebestever]

Only one thing hindered the sales of this masterpiece, the KIA badge.

[@atomicdave1987]

Awesome video James, I bloody love these too and have only ever seen a couple. I also think it's a very handsome car and I'm impressed Kia built something this good!

[@JasonMilner]

Coupaloon - my new word of the day :)

[@visionist7]

Better than Saupe I guess lol

[@matthewzepess5721]

My coworker has one, very nice car can’t complain with the turbo either. I usually wouldn’t buy a Kia but it looks like a good daily driver.

[@invisiblekid99]

Depends on your daily commute. She's a thirsty girl on anything but motorways.

[@johnbradshaw5900]

I think you are right about the pricing. I bought our current Audi A6 3 years ago new for £28.5k when the list price was £40k. You can get biblical discounts on big German cars whereas KIA list prices seem generally to be much closer to the price you pay. I bought the A6 after having provisionally settled on a Mazda 6, the 6 being a very nicely kitted out and sweet handling car with loads of space. Given the A6 was the same price as the Mazda I was tempted by the "bargain", three years later I honestly wish I'd bought the Mazda.

[@zefram47]

Wife bought a US-spec GT1 AWD a year ago and loves it. She wanted something that wasn't a CUV that was fun to drive, but could still haul her bicycle. That more or less left the BMW 4-series Gran Coupe and the Audi A5 Sportback as well as the Stinger. Good power, especially at 6000 feet elevation where we are. The transmission has some delay that might not have existed with a ZF unit, but pretty good. My only real complaints are the throttle pedal travel is far too small and the car really isolates you from the road. I think on the canyon roads it would be easy for someone to overdrive it because it doesn't communicate road feel at all, but as you point out in the video, the stability and traction control are quite good and pretty unobtrusive. And I am comparing it with my old NB Miata and current C6 Corvette Grand Sport. It really can't be compared there, but against a larger BMW or Audi...very impressed, especially for the price.

[@TA-oh4co]

I bought one in Germany. A GT 3.3l. Glass roof, bastuck exhaust. 45000€ So much fun. Perfekt👍🏻💪🏻👍🏻💪🏻

[@RadekUlrich]

Same here :) I just love this car! Did you buy a new one or slightly used?

[@TA-oh4co]

@@RadekUlrich Hi. Neu gekauft 😉 Bin immernoch begeistert!!!

[@RadekUlrich]

@@TA-oh4co Na, dann Glückwunsch! :) Ich habe bisschen mehr bezahlt, aber es war auch "günstig". Du, was bedeutet " bastuck exhaust"? Hast du die Version mit dem KIA verstarkeren Auspuff?

[@TA-oh4co]

@@RadekUlrich Das ist der Klappenauspuff von Bastuck!👍🏻 Lohnt sich auf jeden Fall. Für das Geld ein abnormales Auto. Natürlich ist es auch viel Geld aber verglichen mit anderen...💯🙏

[@RadekUlrich]

@@TA-oh4co Ach so... Das habe ich nicht. Aber du hast recht! Das Auto für das Geld ist echt super!

[@MuddyTubMedia]

I daily drive a 2019 GT. I absolutely love the car. Every time I drive the car, I have fun. Every time. I have an exhaust, intake, and a few other mods that make the experience even more fun. For anyone who wants a practical car that handles great, has plenty of luxury features, looks great, and has plenty of power, buy a Stinger GT.

[@robertk8524]

Couldn't agree more. I got one and I don't regret it at all.

[@OrnumCR]

Had mine for a year now. Thundered across Australia in it last year over 8000 km and it was fantastic for that. Every day it is used to commute and it does that brilliantly. Downsides?? Service intervals do need to be longer, fuel tank needs to be bigger, and, whilst I generally don’t race point to point everywhere, the staggered tyre/wheel setup does mean the rear tyres wear quite fast, so be prepared to budget for regular tyre changes on these, especially if you commute some distance like I do. Otherwise, very well sorted car and very enjoyable.

[@gerardvinet8448]

Lowers the R.P.M. at stop lights also .There's options to upgrade estitics , also !Great car for the mid-range buyer's.

[@flyfalcons]

I've had my GT2 for nearly two years now and I still love it.

[@jpogigtxcr1778]

Because the ttv6 engine version is at $40000+ USD, that BMW money already. You get a 460HP v8 base Mustang for $36,000 USD. $40K for premium.

[@khronin]

I got my GT AWD for 36k then traded a 10 year old car and paid 19k out the door.Mustang has no brembos--about 3 to 4k--has no AWD another 2k plus and the interior is not quite as good.The KIA also has solid reliability already with JD power and Mustang ranks poor.BTW I have owned Ford products and left them years ago because of reliability problems and the treatment at the dealership.Things fell into place where I wound up with 2 vehicles and had to narrow it down to one.I could have gotten anything under 50k--that was limit because I could outright buy a car in that range--no payments and chose the KIA.BTW just adding the nice stereo in the stang brings it up over 40k because it is part of a package.the KIA is also beating stock mustangs on multiple channels.RWD are just outdated now--I do not have to worry about road conditions with the AWD system--the stang can only runs its times on perfect asphalt on warm pavement--and the mustangs like all RWD cars have trouble getting off the line 5 times out of 10.Rain--snow--cold weather--no prob with an AWD.Focus RS was a choice until I saw all the reliability problems with it and the fact that a stinger would smoke it once you are past 80.I researched every car in the under 50k range including used AUDIs--M cars--and AMG--Honda Type R--(BTW I traded a very rare Type r crosstour in and got use to honda reliability.The stinger was faster then all the 4 cylinder cars--focus--subies--golfs--and in mT was as fast as most American V8s and was slightly faster then the infiniti AWD.The 10 year 100k warranty is also what sold me on this car.Also--everyone has a mustang where I meet at near me--like 7 of them--and guess what 3 of them have the check engine light on.Last thing is the test drive--when the 2 turbos spooled up--the stinger is much faster then you expect and the torque comes on early.

[@JoshuaWilliams-xe7cs]

Flaniganskywalker Kia is a slept on great brand of cars

[@averbalin]

There is not a single comparable BMW that comes in EVEN close to the GT2 specs at its price. MSRP for the bottom of the barrel 5 series (530i xDrive) comes in at 57K and you give up over 100HP, no heated/ventilated seats (thats an option), no HUD (thats an option), Brembo brakes (aftermarket only) ,6 years of factory warranty and about 20 other things. To get close on any Audi/BMW/Merc you are looking at 70K to 80K easy. If someone is willing to pay 20 - 30K more for brand image that is their business but side by side looking at things objectively the Kia Stinger GT2 has no competition in it's segment at it's price point.

[@baronvonlimbourgh1716]

Yeah, but a mustang. Not exactly comparable though. Not a big fan of anything comming from that part of the world.

[@VicharB]

Got one in 2019, though the GDI 2.0T fully packed GT-Line (in Russia) and absolutely enjoying it. In plan Stage 1.5 upgrade to ~310bhp/420Nm.

[@mattbaxendale5550]

I’m so tempted to buy one, the amount of standard tech as is staggering compared to a BMW, Audi or Mercedes. If I can ween myself away from BMW’s I’d buy one in heart beat. Great Video 👍👍

[@dreamcrusher112]

I drive near on 20k miles a year and I think I've seen one of these maybe four times, fantastic looking car and seems a good buy but nobody knows about them.

[@dalew6226]

In Australia, 9/10 times its an unmarked police car 😁 rare here though too.

[@jordythebassist]

@@dalew6226 I see multiple Stingers every day in Melbourne, they've sold much better here.

[@Ratherniche]

I drove one and I thought it was brilliant. It has served well to change the reputation of Kia, you can now say they produce a GT car with a god damn v6 that is a pleasure to drive. I don'tt hink they ever expected it to sell well. I'm glad to see they are depreciating fast because when I can finally afford one they are going to be a right bargain :D

[@cindykeselowski899]

Great review & right on! I have a 2019 GT1, RWD and it exceeds my expectations. Wouldn't change it. Not sure why it's not selling other than people want SUV'S now & they can have em.

[@FreewayBrent]

Not sure about the situation in the UK, but it's done pretty well in the US. Nearly 17,000 units sold in 2018, and under 14,000 in 2019. I see them quite a bit here in the San Francisco Bay Area. Kia didn't expect this to be a huge sales hit; it was basically an investment into changing Kia's image over time as a great alternative to other brands perceived as more prestigious than Kia.

[@cliveargyle5237]

One childhood!! Love it!

[@davidmanasas6606]

Limited production with high demand: they will sell it in the markets where they make the most money per unit, not where margins are tighter.

[@paulbeard5105]

Hi Jay great video …ownership of any car is so personal. I really recently bought a Lexus 430 sc for the summer and several foreign trips it bloody fantastic yes isn’t the fastest it doesn’t handle …but living in Bournemouth the roof is always coming down . Great Channel

[@DynamiteDaveLlewellyn]

30 Grand on a second hand KIA I think you have your answer right there buddy....

[@paulgeraghty6041]

I think the name spoils it great looking car if you could spec it with a standard bonnet

[@6ettinold]

I wonder how many Stinger owners have stopped visiting their local because of the constant innuendo?!

[@kurtpatterson509]

In a few years ppl will steal Kia badges to pretend their cars are Kias. Remember I said this.

[@MrSunnyBhoy]

Great review and great car. Seen only one or 2 out and about. Hope to drive one someday. I think a lot of is to do with badge snobs.

[@visionist7]

They should have just badged it as Stinger, and had no Kia badges. Then again this was meant to be a halo car to bring cachet to the Kia name. Let's be fair, if it was a crossover they'd have sold trillions of them. They'd be absolutely everywhere. And all with 1.6 litre diesels too. I kinda prefer it like this...

[@invisiblekid99]

@Bob Dobalina It is an ugly design. The new one need to be implemented ASAP.

[@invisiblekid99]

@@visionist7 Or do it as they do in S.Korea. They just but a fancy "E" badge on it for "'Engineered by Excellence." Looks much, much better. You can replace the badges yourself and something I will do at some point.

[@v-0448]

Have had my Stinger for a year now, love it!

[@mayssm]

The problem from my pov is: 1. It's a new car, so who knows how reliable it will be, or resale value. Which wouldn't be bad except it's *expensive*. 2. Kia dealers are some of the absolute worst dealers in the country. They act like you are bothering them merely by stepping on the lot, and they wish for you to leave. It's a nearly universal complaint I've heard from car buyers concerning Kia dealerships.