New York 2019: Kia Stinger GTS – Now With Drift Mode

Kia has unveiled a very special, limited-run edition of the Stinger sports sedan at the ongoing 2019 New York International Show.

Limited to just 800 units, the special edition Stinger GTS’ main highlight is a newly developed Dynamic All-wheel Drive System that is designed for more spirited driving. Dubbed D-AWD, the system has been tweaked to close the gap in behaviour between the AWD- and RWD-equipped Stinger GT. A RWD variant of the Stinger GTS is also offered.

A mechanical limited slip rear differential (LSD) has been added to the D-AWD system, which is designed to enhance traction and distribute power more evenly between the rear wheels when wheel slip is detected. Elsewhere, Kia has retuned the Stability Control system, transmission shift patterns, and Slip Control and Counter Steer Detection system for better driving balance and response.  

The D-AWD system offers three drive modes, which progressively distributes more power towards the rear wheels – Comfort (60 percent to rear wheels), Sport (80 percent), and Drift mode which sends 100 percent of power to the rear wheels.

The D-AWD system, in many ways, works just like BMW’s M xDrive system which features in the (F90) BMW M5, but this comes as no surprise, as Albert Biermann, ex-Head of BMW’s ‘M’ Division now heads research and development for Hyundai Motor Group.

There are no changes under the hood, like the Stinger GT, the GTS is powered by a 3.3-litre twin-turbo V6 which outputs 370 PS and 510 Nm of torque. Power is sent to an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Aesthetically, the Stinger GTS is easily identifiable by its Federation Orange paint colour. Genuine carbon fibre parts now outline the tiger nose grille, side mirror caps, and side vents. Elsewhere, a ‘GTS’ emblem resides on the boot, and a ‘Stinger’ emblem replaces the Kia logo on the trunk lid.

On the inside, the steering wheel and centre console are wrapped in Alcantara, while the headliner is now trimmed in a suede-like material called Chamude. A sunroof is fitted as standard, as is a 720-watt Harman Kardon premium audio system.

The Stinger GTS will hit Kia dealerships in the US beginning Q3 of 2019.

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