It's official! Kia Stinger production to end as limited edition marks end of the road

A global statement from Kia, announcing a limited-edition version of the Kia Stinger, has also confirmed the end of the line for the sports sedan, as the car’s production is set to wrap up in 2023.

Chang Sung Ryu, Kia's senior vice-president, said the end of the Stinger’s lifespan as a badge wasn’t an indication of the company moving away from performance models, but further into electrification.

“The Stinger Tribute Edition denotes an important chapter in the story of Kia’s high-performance ethos,” he said.

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“Featuring an exclusive colour and interior trim never before seen on the sedan, it also serves as a fitting celebration of the Stinger’s contribution to the Kia brand.

“As we enter a new age of mobility, Kia will satisfy the needs of customers who seek to enjoy elevated levels of dynamic driving pleasure through high-performance electrified models such as the EV6 GT. 

“And the brand’s strategy to continue accelerating the development of innovative electrification technologies will ensure that sustainability and strong performance combine effortlessly under the Kia badge.”

In Australia, more than 3500 Stingers have been sold in the past 24 months, well head of the Skoda Superb (just over 1200 sold) with which it shares the Large Sedan sales category, and almost as impressive as the more-than 4500 sales Ford has racked up with the Mustang sports car.

Kia Australia is yet confirm exactly when local Stinger sales will cease, with police forces currently accounting for a significant portion of deliveries.

Either way, the 2023 Kia Stinger Tribute Edition will be limited to 1000 units worldwide, with no indication yet as to how the limited-edition allocations will be distributed.

The Tribute Edition will be available only with a twin-turbo 3.3-litre V6, based on the GT specification, with new colour options and black trim for the side mirrors, Brembo brakes, and 19-inch wheels.

Inside, a wasp-shaped emblem is stitched into the seat headrests as a reference to the Stinger name, while the driver’s door sill plate will feature a numbered plate from 1 to 1000.