Base 2.0L RWD model in the snow

[scumpxharry]

Hi all, I am an aspiring Stinger Owner. I've wanted the car since I first heard about it last spring, and in the next few months I will finally have the cash to make it happen. Based on my budget, I will likely be going for a base 2018-2019 RWD. I am just wondering what your guys experience has been with that trim in the snow. Generally RWD is viewed as bad in snow so I am just checking in regarding that.

 

[skygtr]

It depends on what part of the country you're in. Overall if it's somewhere that only gets a handful of snow over the winter months with a 1-2" storm from time to time, I doubt you'll have an issue. If you live somewhere like I do where it's 4-5 months of sub-40 temps and heavy snow on a weekly basis, you're gonna be stuck a lot, even with chains.

 

[monusa]

It depends on what part of the country you're in. Overall if it's somewhere that only gets a handful of snow over the winter months with a 1-2" storm from time to time, I doubt you'll have an issue

Same with me.....i have the RWD 2.0 as well and with fairly new A/W tread on the tires, 'eco" mode, traction control on, you can make do in the little stuff. Throw a sand bag or two in the back and it does pretty well, surprisingly.....our road crews are pretty good so i have not had to deal with anything above 2". More, you may have issues with anything less than dedicated snow tires......crazy thing, i was in Michigan one year (no need to explain the weather) and there was a C7 Vette that passed us with snow tires and they were having absolutely NO issues and there was plenty of snow to go around.....but they know how to drive in it so it is a little bit different.

 

[MerlintheMad]

Howdy and welcome. With the right tires your job will be easier, go figure. RWD is fun in snow. AWD is easier. FWD is the gold standard nearly everyone is used to anymore. I actually prefer RWD, because when you lose traction you don't lose your steering. AWD is the best combo. In my Stinger, in the snow, I put it in Smart and go easy. That should work well with RWD too.

 

[scumpxharry]

Maybe it would be better to pony up another 2-3k for AWD

 

[Oryan]

Tires matter more than anything. Summers in snow on a RWD car is asking to make an appointment at the nearest wall or ditch. All-seasons that are decent will do for just being cold, a little snow, a little ice. Winters with something heavy in the trunk can get you through some heavier stuff. Remember you can't drive like you would normally.. slower, more modulated throttle and brake usage. Plan your turns early and take them more gently. Sudden jerks of the wheel or stabs at a pedal can have you going places regardless of your setup.

In short, you can do it, just be aware of your conditions you have to contend with with set the car up to handle it, and then drive accordingly.

 

[Nasscar]

Welcome to the forum and good luck with finding the right Stinger for you. Can't help you in relation to performance in the snow. We don't get any of that in Western Australia. Just plenty of sun.

 

[7Andrei7]

I own the 2.0 RDW and never had any real problems in the 2 winters I've had it. I usually go up to the slopes a few times a year and have even taken it up in the Alps a couple of times. I would say it's not so different to a FWD. It is a little more tail happy but with decent winter tires it's manageable. Winter tires are mandatory here.
PS: For winter, I've gotten a new set of rims as well. I chose the smaller 18" with the recommended 225 45 R18 tires all around.

 

[General_Vodka]

Rwd gt2 here. Snow tires on the stock wheels. Got stuck a couple times but nothing crazy, worked myself out. Got stuck on purpose just to see how a rwd car handles. Then found a parking lot and became spinderella. If your easy on the gas and have snow tires then no problems. Everyone was looking at me in their suvs and trucks lol. It's just the ice you have to watch out for. Sideways in seconds on that

 

[scumpxharry]

I own the 2.0 RDW and never had any real problems in the 2 winters I've had it. I usually go up to the slopes a few times a year and have even taken it up in the Alps a couple of times. I would say it's not so different to a FWD. It is a little more tail happy but with decent winter tires it's manageable. Winter tires are mandatory here.
PS: For winter, I've gotten a new set of rims as well. I chose the smaller 18" with the recommended 225 45 R18 tires all around.

Thanks for the tip. Are those smaller or larger wheels than stock?

 

[7Andrei7]

I think they are identical in circumference but the 18” one is way narrower, making it better for snow grip. It is one of the 2 rear sizes recommended by Kia and you can even find the required pressures on the driver side pillar.
Also, be careful when you buy a new set of wheels to also order a new set of pressure sensors. You can find OEM ones on ebay for about 100$.

 

[7Andrei7]

Fresh, from today -13 Celsius

 

[7Andrei7]

And two more. Absolutely no trouble with traction. Going down was a little more challenging but that would have been the same with any car