The Good
The 2018 Stinger boasts exhilarating performance, especially with its potent V6, appealing to emotional buyers seeking driving thrills. Its striking design and comfortable, well-appointed cabin offer a premium feel. For practical buyers, it presents exceptional value, delivering luxury-segment features and reliability at a more accessible price point, complemented by the versatile liftback cargo space.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses for the 2018 Stinger include the GT models' relatively poor fuel economy, which demands premium fuel. Some buyers note limited rear visibility due to the sloping roofline. While generally good, lower trims may have some interior plastics that don't quite match luxury rivals, and depreciation can be steeper than German competitors.
2018 KIA Stinger: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
2.0-liter Turbocharged 4-cylinder
3.3-liter Twin-Turbo V6 - Horsepower:
2.0L I4: 255 hp
3.3L V6: 365 hp - Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated MPG):
2.0L RWD: 22 city / 29 highway / 25 combined
2.0L AWD: 21 city / 29 highway / 24 combined
3.3L RWD: 19 city / 25 highway / 21 combined
3.3L AWD: 18 city / 24 highway / 20 combined - 0-60 MPH Times:
2.0L RWD: Approximately 5.9-6.0 seconds
3.3L RWD (GT): Approximately 4.7-4.9 seconds - Towing Capacity: Not officially rated or recommended for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
2.0L (Base): 18-inch alloy wheels, leather upholstery, heated front seats, 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, rear parking sensors, dual-zone automatic climate control.
Premium: Adds LED headlights, sunroof, 8-inch touchscreen with navigation, 15-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, power-adjustable steering column, driver's seat memory, and some advanced driver-assistance features like Forward Collision Warning.
GT: The performance variant, featuring the 3.3L twin-turbo V6 engine, Brembo brakes, electronically controlled suspension, 19-inch wheels, a flat-bottom steering wheel, and launch control. RWD GT models also feature a mechanical limited-slip differential.
GT1: Builds on the GT with most features from the Premium trim, including a full suite of active safety tech like adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitor, and rear cross-traffic alert, plus ventilated front seats.
GT2: The top-tier trim, adding Nappa leather upholstery, a head-up display, surround-view camera, heated rear seats, power liftgate, and more advanced driver-assistance systems.
2018 KIA Stinger Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2018 |
| Make | KIA |
| Model | Stinger |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Hatchback |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | South Korea |
| Manufacturing City | SOHARI |
Dimensions
| Doors | 5-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | TGDI Theta II |
| Engine Size | 3.3L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | - |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2018 KIA Stinger Have?
Common Issues: Owners have occasionally reported infotainment system glitches, such as freezing or slow responses, which often get resolved with software updates. Brake wear, particularly on the performance-oriented GT models equipped with Brembo brakes, is a common concern due to their aggressive nature, leading to faster pad and rotor replacement cycles. While not widespread, some anecdotal reports mention minor electrical gremlins or sensor malfunctions. Additionally, the stock Pirelli tires on GT trims tend to wear quickly, necessitating earlier replacement.
Recalls for 2018 Stinger: Several recalls were issued for the 2018 model year.
- Brake Master Cylinder (NHTSA Recall 18V-613): Issued in October 2018, this recall addressed a potential for internal damage in the master cylinder, which could affect brake performance. Dealers inspected and replaced affected components.
- Fuel Pump Jet Nozzle (NHTSA Recall 19V-462): In June 2019, a recall was issued for a possible detachment of the fuel pump jet nozzle, posing a risk of fuel leakage and fire. The remedy involved replacing the entire fuel pump assembly.
- Power Steering Software (NHTSA Recall 18V-712): Also in October 2018, a recall involved a software issue that could lead to intermittent loss of power steering assistance. Dealers updated the power steering software to correct this.
How long will the 2018 KIA Stinger last?
However, weaknesses over time typically center around its performance-oriented aspects. Expect accelerated wear on items like Brembo brake pads and rotors on GT models, and the specialized performance tires will need more frequent replacement. Suspension bushings and dampers will eventually require attention, as with any high-performance sedan. Interior materials, while good, may show some wear on high-touch surfaces over extended use. Regular, proactive maintenance and addressing recalls promptly are crucial for maximizing the Stinger's lifespan and performance.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Built-in Tech & Entertainment: Standard features included a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth, USB ports, and a six-speaker audio system. Higher trims (Premium, GT1, GT2) upgraded to an 8-inch touchscreen with integrated navigation and a sublime 15-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system featuring Clari-Fi™ technology for enhanced sound. A wireless phone charger was available on top trims, and the GT2 exclusively offered a head-up display (HUD).
Driver-Assistance & Safety Features:
Standard safety across all trims included seven airbags, anti-lock brakes (ABS), stability and traction control, and rear parking sensors. As you moved up the trim levels, a comprehensive array of advanced driver-assistance systems became available or standard:
- Forward Collision Warning (FCW) with Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
- Lane Keep Assist (LKA) and Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
- Blind-Spot Collision Warning (BCW) with Lane Change Assist (LCA)
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning (RCCW)
- Advanced Smart Cruise Control (ASCC) with Stop & Go functionality
- Driver Attention Warning (DAW)
- High Beam Assist (HBA)
- Surround View Monitor (SVM) (standard on GT2)
- IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety): Awarded the Top Safety Pick+, its highest designation. It received "Good" ratings in all five crashworthiness tests (small overlap front-driver's side, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, head restraints & seats). Its optional front crash prevention system earned a "Superior" rating, and headlights ranged from "Acceptable" to "Good" depending on the trim.
- NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration): Received an overall 5-star safety rating, with 5 stars in frontal crash, side crash, and rollover tests, cementing its strong safety credentials.
What Colors Options are Available?
2018 KIA Stinger Prices and Market Value
2018 KIA Stinger Cost of Ownership
2018 KIA Stinger Fuel Efficiency
2018 KIA Stinger Safety Rating
NHTSA
2018 KIA Stinger Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2018 KIA Stinger Compare to Other Hatchback?
Performance: The Stinger GT's 365-hp twin-turbo V6 delivers robust straight-line acceleration, often matching or even outpacing BMW's 340i/440i and Audi's S5 Sportback from the same era. Its handling is engaging and well-balanced, though some might argue the ultimate dynamic precision of a BMW. The 2.0L Stinger competes well with base four-cylinder versions of its rivals. Against the Infiniti Q50, the Stinger generally offers a more refined driving experience and competitive or superior performance to most trims. The Genesis G70, sharing its powertrain, offers near-identical performance.
Features: The Stinger typically provides a more generous list of standard features than its German rivals at a comparable price point. Amenities like heated seats, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a comprehensive suite of safety technologies were often optional extras on entry-level luxury competitors but standard on many Stinger trims. The available Harman Kardon audio system is a standout.
Reliability: Kia's reliability has significantly improved, and the Stinger generally performs well, often on par with or exceeding some luxury brand competitors. Its long original warranty was a strong selling point. The Genesis G70 shares a similar reliability outlook, while the Infiniti Q50 is also known for solid reliability.
Price: This is arguably the Stinger's strongest advantage, especially on the used market. It offers a premium driving experience, powerful engines, and abundant features at a significantly lower cost than similarly equipped BMWs or Audis. Its depreciation, while a detractor for new car buyers, makes it an exceptional used car value.
Alternatives:
- Similar Alternatives: The Genesis G70 is an excellent internal alternative, offering the same mechanicals in a slightly more luxurious, compact package, albeit without the liftback's cargo versatility. The Infiniti Q50 Red Sport 400 offers comparable power but generally less interior refinement and dynamic handling.
- "Better" Alternatives (depending on priorities): For ultimate brand prestige, slightly more refined interior materials, or razor-sharp track performance, a used BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe or Audi A5 Sportback (S5 for GT comparisons) might be preferred, but expect to pay a premium.
Final Verdict: Is the 2018 KIA Stinger a Good Hatchback?
The Stinger is absolutely worth buying, especially as a used vehicle. Its initial depreciation makes it an incredible second-hand bargain, providing luxury-level performance, features, and comfort at a significantly reduced price compared to its German rivals. We highly recommend focusing on the 3.3L V6 GT trims (GT, GT1, GT2) for the full Stinger experience; while the 2.0L is competent, the V6 delivers the true "grand tourer" feel. Always prioritize models with a complete maintenance history to ensure long-term reliability and enjoyment.