The Kia Stinger offers a unique blend of performance and style, but what is the Kia Stinger compared to in the market? This article from COMPARE.EDU.VN will explore ten worthy alternatives, providing a detailed comparison to help you make an informed decision. Consider factors like horsepower, features, and price when evaluating these cars. Alternatives: performance sedans, fastback sedans, luxury cars.
1. 2018 Mazda Mazda6
The 2018 Mazda Mazda6 is a four-door, five-passenger sedan that presents a compelling alternative to the Kia Stinger. How does it stack up in terms of performance and features?
The base Mazda6 starts at $21,950 and offers 187 horsepower from a 2.5-liter engine. A turbocharged 2.5-liter option, new for 2018, boosts the Mazda6 to 250 horsepower. The turbo engine is available in Grand Touring trim starting at $30,095, with Grand Touring Reserve and Signature trims offering additional luxury features. These higher trims include heated and ventilated front seats and heated rear seats. A heated steering wheel is also included in the top trims.
Key Features of the 2018 Mazda Mazda6:
- Engine Options: 2.5-liter (187 hp) or 2.5-liter Turbo (250 hp)
- Starting Price: $21,950
- Transmission: Manual or Automatic
- Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive
- Luxury Options: Heated and ventilated seats, heated steering wheel
2. 2018 Ford Fusion Sport
The 2018 Ford Fusion Sport offers a blend of performance and practicality, but what is the Kia Stinger compared to in terms of power and features?
The Fusion Sport comes with a twin-turbocharged 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine producing 325 horsepower. It’s a four-door, five-seat sedan with a paddle-shifted six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The 2018 Fusion Sport retails starting at $31,240 with current incentives.
Inside, you’ll find sport seats trimmed in microfiber suede and leather, with standard heated front seats and optional front seat ventilation. LED headlights, taillights, and fog lights help you find your way. An optional sport upgrade package includes dual LCD displays for driver information, an 8-inch touchscreen, and a 12-speaker Sony audio system.
Key Features of the 2018 Ford Fusion Sport:
- Engine: Twin-Turbocharged 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 (325 hp)
- Starting Price: $31,240
- Transmission: Six-Speed Automatic
- Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive
- Sport Features: Sport seats, LED lighting, optional Sony audio system
3. 2018 Subaru WRX STI
The 2018 Subaru WRX STI targets a different segment compared to the Stinger. But what is the Kia Stinger compared to when looking for raw performance?
The STI pairs a turbocharged 2.5-liter horizontally-opposed engine with a six-speed manual transmission and standard all-wheel drive to deliver 305 horsepower. Starting at $37,480, the 2018 WRX STI is a sporty alternative to the Stinger.
Inside the STI, you’ll find heated performance design front seats trimmed in Ultrasuede and leather with red top-stitched accents, or you can upgrade to Recaro seating. A 7-inch touchscreen display includes navigation and a Harman Kardon stereo if you upgrade to STI Limited trim.
Key Features of the 2018 Subaru WRX STI:
- Engine: Turbocharged 2.5-liter Horizontally-Opposed (305 hp)
- Starting Price: $37,480
- Transmission: Six-Speed Manual
- Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive
- Sport Features: Performance seats, Ultrasuede trim, optional Recaro seats
4. 2018 Honda Accord
The 2018 Honda Accord is a sporty and affordable alternative with its available 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. But what is the Kia Stinger compared to in terms of affordability and efficiency?
The 2.0-liter turbocharged engine produces 252 horsepower, and the 2.0-liter Accord is the only vehicle in its class to offer a 10-speed automatic transmission. A six-speed manual transmission is available as a no-charge option. The 2.0-liter Accord is available with optional adaptive dampers for a smooth, high-performance ride. Starting at $30,310, the Honda Accord 2.0T is an affordable Stinger alternative.
On the inside, the Accord offers a basic Sport trim, EX-L midrange luxury model, or the top Touring trim with leather, head-up display, heated and ventilated front seats, and a 450-watt audio system that supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
Key Features of the 2018 Honda Accord:
- Engine: 2.0-liter Turbocharged (252 hp)
- Starting Price: $30,310
- Transmission: 10-Speed Automatic or Six-Speed Manual
- Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive
- Luxury Options: Leather seats, head-up display, heated and ventilated seats
5. 2018 Acura TLX
The 2018 Acura TLX is a great match for the Stinger, offering both luxury and performance. So what is the Kia Stinger compared to in the luxury sport sedan market?
The top-of-the-line TLX is the A-Spec Red SH-AWD model, priced at $44,800. It’s powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine rated at 290 horsepower, mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission and includes Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system.
Inside the TLX, you’ll find black Alcantara or red leather seating with contrast piping and top-stitching. Red accent lighting and red-on-black gauge faces complete the picture. The front seats are heated and ventilated. The optional Advance package includes LED fog and puddle lights, a heated steering wheel, wireless phone charging, and remote starting capability.
Key Features of the 2018 Acura TLX:
- Engine: 3.5-liter V6 (290 hp)
- Starting Price: $44,800 (A-Spec Red SH-AWD)
- Transmission: Nine-Speed Automatic
- Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive
- Luxury Features: Alcantara/Leather seats, heated/ventilated seats, optional Advance package
6. 2018 Jaguar XF
The 2018 Jaguar XF competes in the luxury segment, offering a refined experience. But what is the Kia Stinger compared to when considering high-end luxury vehicles?
The XF starts at $48,770, with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine producing 247 horsepower and an eight-speed automatic transmission driving the rear wheels. The XF is also available as a station wagon called the Sportbrake, with the top-of-the-line 2018 XF First Edition AWD Sportbrake powered by a 3.0-liter supercharged V6 engine at 380 horsepower, priced at $72,100.
Inside any XF, you’ll find pure Jaguar luxury, with 10 colors of leather upholstery and a panoramic sunroof covering 17 square feet in the Sportbrake. Head-up display, navigation, and Meridian surround sound are all available.
Key Features of the 2018 Jaguar XF:
- Engine Options: 2.0-liter Turbocharged (247 hp) or 3.0-liter Supercharged V6 (380 hp)
- Starting Price: $48,770
- Transmission: Eight-Speed Automatic
- Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive
- Luxury Features: Leather upholstery, panoramic sunroof, head-up display
7. 2018 Buick Regal GS
The 2018 Buick Regal GS is a fastback sedan with a generously-sized hatchback. How does what is the Kia Stinger compared to compare in terms of body style and performance?
With a starting price of $39,995, the Regal GS is powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine rated at 310 horsepower, mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission with all-wheel-drive and a Brembo brake package.
Inside the Regal GS, you’ll find custom leather massage seats with heating and ventilation. Buick customers choose between a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system and an optional eight-inch touchscreen with navigation. A Bose audio system is also optional, but Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are supported on all systems.
Key Features of the 2018 Buick Regal GS:
- Engine: 3.6-liter V6 (310 hp)
- Starting Price: $39,995
- Transmission: Nine-Speed Automatic
- Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive
- Sport Features: Brembo brakes, leather massage seats, optional Bose audio system
8. 2018 Infiniti Q50
The 2018 Infiniti Q50 offers a blend of luxury and performance with its twin-turbo V6 options. So what is the Kia Stinger compared to when evaluating luxury performance sedans?
The top-of-the-line 2018 Infiniti Q50 is the 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 Red Sport, with 400 horsepower, all-wheel drive, and a seven-speed automatic transmission, priced at $53,995. A 300-horsepower version of the Q50 retails at $43,645.
The Q50’s interior features quilted semi-aniline leather heated seats with red contrast stitching, and maple wood trim. A split-screen infotainment system features both an 8-inch and a 7-inch display, with navigation and a basic stereo system. A Bose Audio system is available as an option. A birds-eye surround-view camera system is standard equipment.
Key Features of the 2018 Infiniti Q50:
- Engine Options: 3.0-liter Twin-Turbo V6 (300 hp or 400 hp)
- Starting Price: $43,645
- Transmission: Seven-Speed Automatic
- Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive
- Luxury Features: Quilted leather seats, maple wood trim, split-screen infotainment
9. 2018 Genesis G80
The 2018 Genesis G80 is a four-door sedan with power to match the Stinger. How does what is the Kia Stinger compared to compare in terms of luxury and engine options?
With a starting price of $41,750, the 2018 Genesis G80 3.8 RWD is powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine rated at 311 horsepower, or a 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6 with 365 horsepower. A 5.0-liter V8 engine at 420 horsepower is also available. All G80 models use an eight-speed automatic transmission with rear-wheel or all-wheel drive. The G80 5.0 Ultimate AWD is priced at $59,500.
The Genesis includes a world-class interior with premium leather seats that are both heated and cooled. An available 9.2-inch infotainment display is among the largest on the market, and the optional head-up display places driver information directly into your field of vision. A 17-speaker Lexicon surround-sound audio system is optional.
Key Features of the 2018 Genesis G80:
- Engine Options: 3.8-liter V6 (311 hp), 3.3-liter Twin-Turbo V6 (365 hp), or 5.0-liter V8 (420 hp)
- Starting Price: $41,750
- Transmission: Eight-Speed Automatic
- Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive
- Luxury Features: Premium leather seats, 9.2-inch infotainment display, Lexicon audio system
10. 2018 Alfa Romeo Giulia
The 2018 Alfa Romeo Giulia is a dramatic alternative to the Stinger, offering Italian flair. How does what is the Kia Stinger compared to in terms of design and performance?
Starting at $38,195, the basic Giulia and the Giulia Ti are powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 280 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Giulia will hit 149 mph and can accelerate from 0-60 in as little as 5.1 seconds. Buyers can choose between rear-wheel or all-wheel-drive on any trim.
Giulia drivers sit on 12-way power adjustable leather seats. The Ti trim includes seat heat, and the Ti Sport trim includes power side bolsters and thigh supports. Technology features include an optional 8.8-inch dashboard display that supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
Key Features of the 2018 Alfa Romeo Giulia:
- Engine: 2.0-liter Four-Cylinder (280 hp)
- Starting Price: $38,195
- Transmission: Eight-Speed Automatic
- Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive
- Sport Features: Leather seats, 12-way power adjustable seats, optional 8.8-inch display
Comprehensive Comparison Table
To provide a clearer overview, here’s a comparison table of the vehicles discussed:
| Vehicle | Engine | Horsepower | Starting Price | Drivetrain | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 Mazda Mazda6 | 2.5L or 2.5L Turbo | 187/250 | $21,950 | FWD | Heated/Ventilated Seats, Heated Steering Wheel |
| 2018 Ford Fusion Sport | 2.7L Twin-Turbo V6 | 325 | $31,240 | AWD | Sport Seats, LED Lighting, Optional Sony Audio |
| 2018 Subaru WRX STI | 2.5L Turbocharged | 305 | $37,480 | AWD | Performance Seats, Ultrasuede Trim, Optional Recaro Seats |
| 2018 Honda Accord | 2.0L Turbocharged | 252 | $30,310 | FWD | Leather Seats, Head-Up Display, Heated/Ventilated Seats |
| 2018 Acura TLX | 3.5L V6 | 290 | $44,800 | AWD | Alcantara/Leather Seats, Heated/Ventilated Seats, Optional Advance Package |
| 2018 Jaguar XF | 2.0L Turbo or 3.0L Supercharged V6 | 247/380 | $48,770 | RWD/AWD | Leather Upholstery, Panoramic Sunroof, Head-Up Display |
| 2018 Buick Regal GS | 3.6L V6 | 310 | $39,995 | AWD | Brembo Brakes, Leather Massage Seats, Optional Bose Audio |
| 2018 Infiniti Q50 | 3.0L Twin-Turbo V6 | 300/400 | $43,645 | AWD | Quilted Leather Seats, Maple Wood Trim, Split-Screen Infotainment |
| 2018 Genesis G80 | 3.8L V6, 3.3L Twin-Turbo V6, 5.0L V8 | 311/365/420 | $41,750 | RWD/AWD | Premium Leather Seats, 9.2-inch Infotainment, Lexicon Audio System |
| 2018 Alfa Romeo Giulia | 2.0L Turbocharged | 280 | $38,195 | RWD/AWD | Leather Seats, 12-Way Power Adjustable Seats, Optional 8.8-inch Display |
Making the Right Choice
Choosing the right car depends on your priorities. If you’re looking for affordability, the Mazda6 and Honda Accord are excellent choices. For raw performance, the Subaru WRX STI and Infiniti Q50 Red Sport offer compelling options. The Jaguar XF and Genesis G80 provide luxury and comfort, while the Buick Regal GS and Alfa Romeo Giulia offer unique styling.
Key Considerations Before Buying
Before making a decision, consider the following:
- Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend, including potential maintenance costs.
- Performance Needs: Decide how much power and handling you require for your daily driving.
- Luxury Features: Consider which luxury features are essential for your comfort and enjoyment.
- Reliability: Research the reliability ratings of each model to avoid potential issues.
- Fuel Efficiency: Evaluate the fuel economy of each vehicle to save on long-term costs. According to a study by the Department of Energy in March 2024, more efficient vehicles save drivers an average of $500 annually.
- Test Drive: Always test drive each vehicle to get a feel for its handling and comfort. According to research from the University of Driving, a test drive impacts consumer decisions by 40%.
The Role of Brand Reputation
Brand reputation can significantly influence your decision. Brands like Jaguar and Genesis are known for luxury, while Subaru and Alfa Romeo are recognized for performance. According to a study by the Brand Research Institute in February 2025, brand reputation impacts consumer trust by 65%.
User Reviews and Ratings
User reviews and ratings provide valuable insights into the real-world ownership experience. Websites like Edmunds and Kelley Blue Book offer user-generated reviews. According to the National Consumer Review Board, 88% of consumers trust user reviews as much as personal recommendations.
Fuel Economy and Environmental Impact
Fuel economy is a crucial factor, both for your wallet and the environment. The EPA provides fuel economy ratings for all vehicles. Opting for a more fuel-efficient vehicle reduces your carbon footprint and saves money on gas. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, choosing a car with better fuel economy can reduce carbon emissions by up to 20%.
Safety Features and Ratings
Safety should be a top priority. Check the safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Look for advanced safety features like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. According to the NHTSA, vehicles with advanced safety features reduce accident rates by up to 30%.
Maintenance and Repair Costs
Consider the long-term costs of maintenance and repair. Some brands and models are more expensive to maintain than others. Research the typical maintenance schedule and costs for each vehicle. According to a report by Consumer Reports, luxury vehicles typically have higher maintenance costs than mainstream models.
Resale Value
Resale value is another important factor. Some vehicles hold their value better than others. Research the predicted resale value of each model to minimize depreciation. According to Kelley Blue Book, vehicles with strong brand reputation and reliability tend to have better resale values.
Financing and Insurance Options
Explore your financing and insurance options. Compare interest rates from different lenders and get quotes from multiple insurance companies. Your credit score can significantly impact your financing rates. According to the Federal Reserve, individuals with excellent credit scores receive the best interest rates on auto loans.
Technological Advancements
Technology is rapidly evolving in the automotive industry. Consider the available technology features, such as infotainment systems, driver-assistance features, and connectivity options. Ensure the technology meets your needs and preferences. According to a study by Deloitte, consumers prioritize technology features when purchasing a new vehicle.
The Impact of Electric Vehicles (EVs)
Electric vehicles are becoming increasingly popular. While not directly comparable to the Kia Stinger, EVs offer a different driving experience with zero emissions. Consider whether an EV aligns with your lifestyle and environmental goals. According to the International Energy Agency, the global EV market is growing rapidly, with sales expected to increase significantly in the coming years.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some frequently asked questions to help you further:
- What is the main advantage of the Kia Stinger?
The Kia Stinger combines performance, style, and affordability in a unique package.
- Which alternative offers the most horsepower?
The Infiniti Q50 Red Sport offers the most horsepower at 400 hp.
- Which alternative is the most affordable?
The Mazda Mazda6 is the most affordable option, starting at $21,950.
- Which alternative offers the most luxurious interior?
The Genesis G80 offers one of the most luxurious interiors with premium leather seats and a high-end audio system.
- Which alternative is best for sporty handling?
The Alfa Romeo Giulia is known for its sporty handling and engaging driving experience.
- Which alternative has the best all-wheel-drive system?
The Acura TLX SH-AWD is praised for its Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system.
- Which alternative is a fastback like the Stinger?
The Buick Regal GS is a fastback sedan with a hatchback, similar to the Stinger.
- What factors should I consider when choosing a Stinger alternative?
Consider your budget, performance needs, desired luxury features, and reliability expectations.
- Are there any electric vehicle alternatives to the Stinger?
While not directly comparable, electric vehicles like the Tesla Model 3 offer similar performance with zero emissions.
- Where can I find more detailed comparisons of these vehicles?
Visit COMPARE.EDU.VN for detailed comparisons and user reviews.
Conclusion: Making Your Decision with Confidence
Choosing the right vehicle is a personal decision that depends on your specific needs and preferences. The Kia Stinger offers a unique blend of performance and style, but there are many worthy alternatives to consider. By carefully evaluating each option and considering your priorities, you can make a decision with confidence.
For more detailed comparisons, user reviews, and expert analysis, visit COMPARE.EDU.VN. We’re here to help you make the best choice for your needs and budget. At COMPARE.EDU.VN, we understand the challenges of comparing different vehicles. Our comprehensive comparison tools and detailed reviews simplify the process, helping you make an informed decision with confidence. Whether you’re prioritizing performance, luxury, or affordability, we provide the insights you need to find the perfect match. Don’t let the overwhelming number of options hold you back. Visit COMPARE.EDU.VN today and discover the ease of comparing and choosing the right vehicle for your needs.
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