Kia is Trying Really Hard to Sell You a Stinger

Kia is opening interactive “Stinger Salons” in the U.S. so people can get a closeup look at its sports sedan without going to the dealership.

Designed to offer a modern and inviting atmosphere to learn about the new Kia Stinger, the Stinger Salons are opening just in time for holiday shopping season. Three locations are currently open in Bethesda, Maryland; Skokie, Illinois; and White Plains, New York; and additional locations are scheduled to debut soon in California, Georgia, and Texas. Those locations are expected to open within the first quarter of next year.

SEE ALSO: 2018 Kia Stinger Review | Kia Stinger GT Review

The Stinger Salon is a bit similar to a Tesla store, but Kia and Tesla aren’t the only automakers that have presences inside shopping malls. Luxury brands such as BMW offer a similar experience around the nation. But unlike Tesla, Kia isn’t allowed to sell a vehicle at the Stinger Salon, instead on-site specialists can refer those interested in the Stinger to one of Kia’s nearby dealerships.

“Stinger is a dream car and as we usher in a new era for the Kia brand we are doing something different to show people just how far Kia has come with a true gran turismo that has a faster top speed and zero to 60 time than a Porsche Panamera,” said Saad Chehab, vice president, marketing communications, KMA. “Whether you are a diehard enthusiast or a curious onlooker who has heard the buzz about the Stinger and Kia’s industry-leading quality, our salons are designed to take visitors on a journey and explore what makes the Stinger such a unique and special offering.”