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2018 Kia Stinger is a balanced drifting machine on ice

An early sampling of Kia's new sports sedan on a frozen lake in Sweden proves to be a lot of fun and has us looking forward to spending more time with it soon.

Jon Wong
Jon Wong was a reviews editor for CNET Cars. He test drove and wrote about new cars and oversaw coverage of automotive accessories and garage gear. In his spare time, he enjoys track days, caring for his fleet of old Japanese cars and searching for the next one to add to his garage.
Jon Wong
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To gain its winter weather driving stripes, Kia performed testing and development for the Stinger in Arjeplog, Sweden.

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Tuning for the anti-lock brakes, traction control, stability control and available all-wheel-drive system were the focus for Kia Sweden.

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The Stinger's stability control system features numerous settings with various degrees of intervention in slick conditions.

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Comfort mode dials back power almost immediately to maximum safety in slippery conditions.

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Sport mode allows for a little more slip angle, while still reducing power.

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A second Sport mode is unlocked by double tapping the stability control button and provides more slip angle but doesn't reduce engine power, allowing for controlled drifts.

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Stability control can also be turned off entirely, leaving matters in the hands of the driver.

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The Stinger's available all-wheel-drive system is surefooted through a tight slalom course.

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Chassis response to steering and throttle inputs during drifts is predictable.

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The 2018 Stinger goes on sale at the end of the year.

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