According to a representative from Kia's local arm, the Stinger story won't end with the 276kW/510Nm 3.3-litre twin-turbo V6 GT, with development boss Albert Biermann keen to produce a more focused version of the Korean brand's first serious performance car.
Kia Australia's General Manager of Media and Corporate Communications, Kevin Hepworth, told MOTOR that Biermann was happy to make it known during the Stinger GT's launch at the Detroit Auto Show that he's already looked into the possibility of a sharper Stinger, stating there's definitely more he can do with it.
These are encouraging words from a man who formerly headed BMW's M Division and is now responsible for the fast car ambitions of both Kia and Hyundai through its standalone performance brand N.
Biermann was tight-lipped on exactly what form his "Stinger Special" will take, including whether the modifications would be limited to chassis work or include more power, however his dedication to the project is evident in the fact that local engineering teams will not be allowed to touch the car.
According to Hepworth, Biermann is happy for Kia Australia's talented local development crew, including suspension guru Graeme Gambold, to put its own touches on the Stinger GT, modifying the steering, suspension and possibly the exhaust to suit Australian conditions, however when it comes to ?Biermann's Stinger' it will be very definitely a case of hands off.
Kia is keen to offer a performance model across its entire range, however has ruled out a dedicated sub-brand like Hyundai's N. The Stinger arrives locally in September with the GT expected to be priced around $50,000.
