2019 Kia Stinger Technology & Safety Review

In my full review of the 2019 Kia Stinger, I couldn’t help but admire how great the fastback sedan’s on-road performance was, especially when in its sport mode. However, I also couldn’t help but point out a bit of relegation when it comes to tech toys and safety equipment.

Here’s a closer look at what the Kia Stinger could offer in terms of technology and safety features that go with its P3,250,000 price tag.

What’s included: Motorized adjustment for front seats with memory for the driver, auto-folding side mirrors, speed-sensing door locks, automatic dual-zone climate control, auto-dimming rearview mirror, automatic bi-function projector LEDs with dynamic bending, high-resolution 360-degree around-view monitor, heated/ventilated seats, e-parking brake with brake hold, Qi wireless charger, power tailgate, and an Apple Carplay/Android Auto-ready 8-inch touchscreen infotainment with nine Harman/Kardon speakers and four tweeters.

There are many things to love with the Stinger’s tech toys. The automatic bi-function projector LEDs are a joy to have when driving on mountain roads at night, especially with the dynamic bending feature that illuminates corners while you conquer them. The 360-degree around-view monitor is also one of the clearest of its kind, which makes it very useful when maneuvering in tight spaces.

But ultimately, I love the Stinger’s 8-inch infotainment system. The Harman/Kardon speaker setup produces a crisp and detailed sound, and as I’ve put it, it’s quite addicting at some point. You also have to choose to either use the wireless charging system (and connect via Bluetooth) or plug your smartphone to use Apple Carplay or Android Auto – a very welcome first-world problem.

What you won’t like: At its price point, the lack of adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping aid, and other driver-assist features is surprising.

The Kia Stinger isn’t that conservative with its features, as seen on the list of equipment it has. It’s just that at its price point, I expected it to have more in terms of driver-assist features. As a grand tourer, which basically means a car that’s meant to be driven fast on long drives, adaptive cruise control should be essential, as well as a lane-keeping aid.

What’s included: Full set of airbags, blindspot monitors, ABS with EBD, stability control, hill-start assist, tire pressure monitor, front seatbelt reminders, traction control, and ISOFIX child seat tethers.

Getting a 5-star rating on the Euro NCAP testing was no easy feat, and the Kia Stinger did just that. However, the vehicle tested there was a European model that was equipped with extra safety systems like autonomous emergency braking and lane keep assist system – features not present in the local-spec model.

The Kia Stinger will keep its passengers safe with its blanket of safety arsenal, but don’t expect it to exert more than what it has.