The Kia Stinger is unlike any car I've had the chance to test drive or feature on my blog. Having previously embarked on adventures in cars like the compact Peugeot 108 during a Cornish road trip and the DS3 on a Summer Solstice getaway with my sister, my experiences have typically been more modest. Even the family-sized DS4 Crossback, which I used for a Christmas road trip, pales in comparison to the raw power and allure of the Kia Stinger. In my humble opinion, this car is not only a beast but an absolute showstopper in terms of design and performance.
A Lifestyle Blogger’s Perspective on Cars
I’m no automotive expert, nor do I claim to be a car fanatic. My blog revolves around lifestyle topics, and I often explore a range of subjects. However, my growing interest in road trips and cars has been one of the more thrilling and unexpected outcomes of my new life as a singleton. Since separating from my husband in October 2015, I’ve embraced the freedom that comes with hitting the open road. Before this shift, I was a hesitant driver, only getting behind the wheel when absolutely necessary. My ex-husband handled most of the driving, and my experiences with cars were limited to work trips in budget rental vehicles, far from the luxury or excitement I now associate with the Kia Stinger.
The Milan Adventure: Discovering the Kia Stinger
In pursuit of this newfound interest in cars, I joined the Kia press team on a trip to Milan to learn more about the highly anticipated Stinger. Flying British Airways Business Class (a treat in itself!), I was curious to see what this car had to offer. Surprisingly, I found myself as the only female and the only lifestyle blogger on the trip. The rest of the attendees were automotive or business journalists, with a few representatives from car leasing companies. It became clear that there aren’t many women writing about cars, which made my participation all the more unique. If you know of any great female automotive bloggers, I’d love to hear about them!
A Quick Glimpse of Milan
This was my third visit to Milan, although it was a short one – just 24 hours! We stayed at the 4-star Starhotels E.c.ho Hotel, located near central Milan. The accommodation was top-notch, with the room offering both comfort and style. The mini bar selections were a delightful surprise, featuring artisan marshmallows, caramelized nuts, and gourmet popcorn. I couldn’t help but daydream about planning a longer road trip through Italy. I’ve never been to Rome or Florence, and the idea of exploring Italy’s beautiful coastline, vineyards, and iconic spots like Cinque Terre by car is incredibly tempting. A few weeks on the road would be the perfect way to experience the country in full.
Meeting the Minds Behind the Kia Stinger
One of the highlights of the trip was an exclusive interview with Kia’s Chief Design Officer, Peter Schreyer, and Chief Designer, Gregory Guillaume. During the interview, Guillaume shed some light on the creative process behind the Stinger. When asked about the car's inception, he explained, "The car was extremely well-received, probably even better than many had expected. You really have to analyze everything when you create a car that’s completely new to your lineup. It’s a big risk, but there was enough momentum behind the project to make it a success."
The Kia Stinger: A Bold Step for Kia
What makes the Kia Stinger so remarkable is how it breaks away from the brand’s usual offerings. Known for its family-friendly vehicles and more affordable options, Kia ventured into uncharted territory with the Stinger. This sports sedan, with its sleek design, powerful engine, and luxurious interior, represents a bold step for the company, aimed at competing with higher-end brands in the performance car market. The fact that Kia took this risk and succeeded is a testament to their innovation and ambition.
Conclusion
In the end, the Kia Stinger exceeded all my expectations. It’s more than just a car – it’s a statement. For someone like me, who’s not typically focused on the technical aspects of cars, the Stinger was an exhilarating experience, both in terms of performance and design. My adventure to Milan with Kia was unforgettable, and it has left me with a newfound appreciation for the world of automotive design. While my blog may focus on a variety of lifestyle topics, I can confidently say that the Kia Stinger is one of the most exciting things I’ve had the pleasure of writing about.
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