The death of the high-performance Stinger fastback sedan has been greatly exaggerated as the Korean automaker unveiled a refreshed version for 2021. Aesthetic changes have been made outside, while inside, Kia has finally addressed the issue of cabin materials.

Outside, the 2021 Stinger’s signature tiger-nose grille is now sandwiched by new multi-faceted reflector LED headlights with LED daytime running lights. The new lamps appear darker. When lit, it has a new light signature with sharp slashes of light angled towards the front of the car.

At the back, it gets new rear combination lamps that now extend to the full width of the car, mimicking the shape of the spoiler integrated into the trunk lid. The turn signals, in particular, are made to mimic the appearance of a checkered flag. Higher trims of the Stinger also get a larger wide-bore silver exhaust muffler along with a performance-inspired rear diffuser. New wheel designs complete the changes.


New for 2021 is a “Dark Package” which brings with it a gloss black diffuser surround and black wide-bore muffler tips. The Stinger emblem on the tailgate is also finished in black.

Inside, the Stinger boasts of upgraded materials such as a steering wheel with a new metallic finish, a chrome bezel that surrounds the fully digital instrument cluster, a frameless rearview mirror, contrast stitching, and aluminum or carbon fiber style trim. The 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment is also upgraded along with a new mood lighting system. In select markets, it can also be optioned with ultra-soft diamond-quilted Nappa leather. Brown is exclusive to the Korean market, but Black, Red, or Beige is available for global markets. There’s also a new Saturn Black option which finishes the seats in black suede with contrasting red stitching in a ‘chain’ pattern, designed to mimic the links in a watch strap.


Kia will reveal more details about the upgraded Stinger soon, including its new powertrain line-up and technologies (see this link for details). It will go on sale in Korea in the third quarter of 2020 with other markets to follow soon thereafter.