Kia has pulled the covers off its first true performance model, the Stinger GT sedan, at the Detroit Auto Show.

As local manufacturers vacate the large, rear-drive segment the Koreans are embracing it with gusto, with Kia’s forthcoming Stinger expect to be joined by new offerings from Hyundai’s Genesis range in 2017.

The Stinger’s bold styling was previewed by Kia’s GT Concept that appeared at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor show, however it takes its name from the sporty coupe that appeared at Detroit in 2014.

Kia Stinger rear

What’s under the skin, though, is even more tantalising. Powering the Stinger GT is a 3.3-litre twin-turbo V6 producing 272kW at 6000rpm and 510Nm from 1300-4500rpm, capable of hauling the large four-door to 100km/h in just 5.1sec.

Kia Stinger engine

All-wheel drive is available overseas, however Australian Stingers will be rear-wheel drive only, feeding power through an eight-speed automatic gearbox.

Kia Stinger side

We’ll be sliding behind the wheel of the production Stinger later this year, however our sister publication Wheels has scored an early prototype taste which you can find here.

Kia Stinger interior
1