New Kia Stinger GTS revealed in New York

The US-only Kia Stinger GTS introduces a drift mode to the grand tourer – a feature likely to extend to standard Stinger GT models when updated in 2020.

While Stingers sold in international markets like the UK are only sold in rear-wheel-drive form, four-wheel drive is available in some other markets. However, this limited-edition Stinger GTS has a newly developed dynamic all-wheel-drive system that adds drift mode – a feature popular with owners of performance cars.

Kia said that despite the accolades the Stinger has received, R&D boss Albert Biermann “strived for more.” The result is a new version of the Stinger’s four-wheel-drive system “peppered with rear-wheel drive DNA.” Called D-AWD, it’s intended to close the gap in behaviour between the existing AWD and RWD Stinger GTs.

The D-AWD system has a mechanical limited-slip rear differential. There are three different drive modes; Drift mode sends all power to the rear wheels and holds gears without shifting up, while Sport mode sends 80 percent of power to the rear and Comfort mode sends 60 percent to the rear.

The Stinger GTS uses the same powertrain as the standard Stinger – a 3.3-litre twin-turbo V6 with 370hp and 510Nm of torque, paired to an 8-speed automatic gearbox.

Revealed at the New York motor show, the special edition model, which is limited to 800 units, has bright orange paint, uses carbon-fibre parts around the 'tiger nose' grille and side vents and gets a GTS rear emblem. Inside, the steering wheel and centre console are trimmed in Alcantara, while it also features a sunroof and Harman Kardon audio system.

While the Kia Stinger was showcased in India at the previous Auto Expo and as a part of Kia’s road shows across the country, the model’s India launch is yet unconfirmed. The Korean company will begin its journey in India with the production-spec Kia SP2i SUV, which is expected to go on sale in August 2019.