Kia has launched its dramatic new high-performance Gran Turismo (GT) - the all new Kia Stinger - in Singapore at a special launch event held at the Esplanade Annexe Studio yesterday, 9 January 2018.

In a remarkable departure for a brand known for producing various hatchbacks and sport utility vehicles, the brand new Stinger is a five-passenger fastback sports sedan poised to redefine a segment currently populated by European automakers.

The Stinger promises to be the highest-performance production vehicle in the company's history, promising a new level of prestige and dynamism. 

The dramatic-looking GT exudes a muscular confidence, thanks to its sleek front fascia, svelte flanks and powerful haunhces.

The instantly recognisable 'tiger-nose' grille, sharp LED headlamps, and air intake up front give the Stinger a distinct aesthetic, while quad tailpipes at the back speak to the vehicle's sporty demeanour.

Key to its road presence are its rear-wheel drive proportions - a long hood and short front overhang, an extended wheelbase to deliver a spacious cabin, and a long rear overhang with strong shoulders. 

The chassis is comprised of 55 percent advanced high-strength steel, and this rigidity contributes to reduced noise, vibration and harshness, and a quiet cabin, as well as an ultra-stiff foundation that contributes to the car's dynamic handling. The MacPherson front and multi-link rear suspension has been tuned to provide optimal feedback to the driver.

A Kia first, ride-damping and vehicle handling traits may be modified by the driver through an electronically adjustable suspension known as Dynamic Stability Damping Control. The system is accessed through five drive modes (another Kia first) - Personal, Eco, Sport, Comfort and Smart.

Standard variable ratio rack-mounted motor driven power steering offers razor-sharp feedback through direct mounting of the electric motor on the steering rack, enhancing steering response and reducing unwanted vibration from transmitting through the column.

Steering boost is also adjustable through the five selectable drive modes.

The Kia Stinger is offered with two powertrain options - a 2.0-litre engine producing 247bhp and 353Nm of torque (pictured in blue), as well as a 3.3-litre twin-turbocharged V6 engine producing 370bhp and 510Nm (pictured in red).

Both are mated to an eight-speed automatic gearbox, sending power to the rear wheels only. 

In Singapore, the 2.0-litre variant is readily available for purchase. A first batch of 3.3-litre models is currently available, but once sold out subsequent orders will be on an indent basis. 

Price as of press time (inclusive of COE)

Kia Stinger GT-Line 2.0 (A) - $178,999
Kia Stinger GT 3.3 (A) - $218,999