Stinger differences

1st sting

Member
Joined
Oct 24, 2020
Messages
53
Reaction score
7
Points
8
Looking at replacing my 2015 optima sxt this summer with a stinger 3.3tt AWD.
Between the 2018 2019 and 2020,wnat are the major differences?
Is one year better than the other?
 
There really aren't any. Its been almost exactly the same car since the 2018 model year, as far as the GT models go. So pick the one you can find the cheapest!
 
GT Limited is the one I want since I'll be driving it in winter and can use the awd in the 2 feet of snow. Back wheel drive won't cut it.
 
______________________________
Stinger clearance is just shy of 2' so don't expect it to make it through that much snow absent chains! ;)
 
Nah... No chains needed here. Good winter tires only and I'm good.
 
From interior to exterior to high performance - everything you need for your Stinger awaits you...
I think the late '19 onwards came with a mechanical limited slip diff, I have an '18 GT Limited, only has the dynamic torque vectoring. I've driven it in snow in non-urban parts Ontario and Montreal in the dead of winter, works very well, though snow does tend to build up in the wheel wells. Make sure you read the manual on how to lift the windshield wipers!
 
Snow presents very differently depending on temperature and humidity, above and on the ground. Super cold and dry snow is blast to drive in. The opposite can provide real challenges in my experience!
 
I wonder why forum search features are so...not robust...? I always turn to the Goog!
 
______________________________
From interior to exterior to high performance - everything you need for your Stinger awaits you...
I think the late '19 onwards came with a mechanical limited slip diff, I have an '18 GT Limited, only has the dynamic torque vectoring. I've driven it in snow in non-urban parts Ontario and Montreal in the dead of winter, works very well, though snow does tend to build up in the wheel wells. Make sure you read the manual on how to lift the windshield wipers!
Is the LSD standard or does it come as an option? Just so I know what questions to ask when I start looking for one.
 
It is standard. I like what Kia has done in that there are no 'options' just trim levels. Keeps things nice and consistent.
 
So are all 2019 models equipped with lsd? Will I even notice the difference?
Depending on price and mileage, I might be looking at a 2018. I'll see.
 
From interior to exterior to high performance - everything you need for your Stinger awaits you...
Only MY20+ in limited trim get the LSD...

No LSD for 2018-2019 all trims
No LSD for MY20-MY21 GTs

you will not notice a difference except that traction performance at the limites and in slippery weather will be better with LSD.

An awd car can still become a 1 wheel drive car if jacked on snow. LSD will ensure at least 2 wheels are spinning.
 
______________________________
Only MY20+ in limited trim get the LSD (Limited Slip Differential)...

No LSD (Limited Slip Differential) for 2018-2019 all trims
No LSD (Limited Slip Differential) for MY20-MY21 GTs
Bummer but no deal breaker.
Stinger will still be miles better than the car your replace in all aspect including snow traction regardless of the model year you will go. Happy shopping!
 
Stinger will still be miles better than the car your replace in all aspect including snow traction regardless of the model year you will go. Happy shopping!
Agreed. But when I do go shopping for one, just wanted to know what I should look for.
 
Agreed. But when I do go shopping for one, just wanted to know what I should look for.
Nothing much changed nor major defaults found compared to early built cars but I would still recommend you to get the a 2019+ if you can but nothing really wrong with 2018 either. Also for warranty look at when the car was first registered, there are 2018 cars that where put on the road only in 2019 or even 2020 so the warranty is good longer. Make sure all service records are available and check the car history through car fax as well as if the recalls where done.
 
From interior to exterior to high performance - everything you need for your Stinger awaits you...
Back
Top