Kia Stinger (CK 2018+)

A tune. The stock 3.3 twin-turbo leaves a fair bit on the table, and a Stage 1 ECU/TCU calibration on 98 RON typically lifts it into the 300kW+ range at the crank with no hardware changes. It also sharpens the 8-speed's shift logic, which is the single biggest improvement most owners notice.

Stage 1 (tune only, 98 RON) is the easy win. To go further, an upgraded intake, downpipes/cat-back and a proper intercooler/charge-pipe setup support Stage 2; the stock turbos are good for solid gains but are the main ceiling before you're into a turbo upgrade. Be realistic - the 3.3T isn't a 2JZ, so plan around the stock internals and fuelling.

It responds, just not as dramatically. The 2.0 turbo (182kW/353Nm in AU) picks up worthwhile mid-range from a tune and bolt-ons, but the aftermarket and headroom are far smaller than the 3.3T. If you bought it for outright power, the V6 is the car to modify.

The 8-speed auto and stock clutch packs don't love big torque, so TCU tuning and sensible torque limits matter as you add power. The 3.3's GDI carbon build-up on the intake valves is worth keeping an eye on, and many owners fit an oil catch can. Brakes and tyres are the next honest upgrade once you've added meaningful power - it's a heavy GT, not a lightweight.