What sets it apart from the rest

We’re used to seeing conventional sedans – like the VF Commodore and Hyundai Genesis – take out this category, but ironically it’s actually the Kia Stinger 200S’s smaller engine and cheaper price which pushes it over the line.

What it’s like to drive

The Stinger is good at getting down a winding road with maximum driver satisfaction and minimal fuss. The engine produces 182kW of power and 353Nm of torque, with all of that torque available from just 1400rpm.

At 4830mm long and 1870mm wide, the Stinger is 67mm shorter but 7mm wider than the current ZB Holden Commodore. So, for a large car, you won’t feel tiny behind the wheel but there’ll be more than enough space to notice this isn’t a pint-sized ride.

What it’s got

• Very well equipped safety gear after an upgrade earlier this year, which added autonomous emergency braking and lane-support systems to help lift the Stringer 220S’s ANCAP safety rating to five stars.
• Gear shifter and air vents look similar to old European cars.
• 7-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty.
• 6-speaker sound system.
• 7-inch touchscreen with stat-nav.
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Is this the car for you?

Many Australians continue to flock to SUVs without even considering other options, so the Kia Stinger is one to watch. It offers almost SUV-like practicality, but with the handling of a sports sedan.

How the finalists fared against the Kia Stinger 200S