Engine Code

Kia STINGER-GTS Engine (2019–2023) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Kia Stinger GTS is powered by a 3,342 cc, twin — turbocharged V6 petrol engine produced between 2019 and 2023. It features gasoline direct injection (GDi), twin — scroll turbochargers, and dual continuously variable valve timing (CVVT). This engine was designed to offer exhilarating performance, delivering 272 kW (370 PS) and 510 Nm of torque, making it Kia's most powerful production engine at launch.

Exclusively fitted to the rear — wheel — drive Stinger GTS (CK), thi

Kia Engine
Compliance Note:

All production years 2019–2023 meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9876).

Kia STINGER-GTS Technical Specifications

The Kia Stinger GTS engine is a 3,342 cc V6 twin-turbo petrol engineered for high-performance GT applications (2019-2023). It combines direct injection with twin twin-scroll turbochargers to deliver explosive acceleration and sustained high-RPM power. Designed to meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards, it balances raw performance with regulatory compliance.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement
3,342 cc
Fuel type
Petrol
Configuration
V6, DOHC, 24‑valve
Aspiration
Twin-turbocharged
Bore × stroke
92.0 mm × 83.8 mm
Power output
272 kW (370 PS)
Torque
510 Nm @ 1,300–4,500 rpm
Fuel system
High-pressure direct injection (up to 250 bar)
Emissions standard
Euro 6d-TEMP
Compression ratio
10.5:1
Cooling system
Water‑cooled
Turbocharger
Twin twin-scroll turbos (Honeywell)
Timing system
Chain-driven
Oil type
ACEA C3 (SAE 5W‑40)
Dry weight
215 kg

Kia STINGER-GTS Compatible Models

The Kia Stinger GTS engine was used exclusively in the Kia Stinger (CK) platform with longitudinal, rear-wheel-drive mounting. This engine received no platform-specific adaptations during its production run, as it was a bespoke performance variant. The GTS trim featured unique engine tuning and cooling enhancements, but the core engine block and major components remained consistent with the standard 3.3L V6. All specifications are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Kia
Years:
2019–2023
Models:
Stinger (CK)
Variants:
GTS
View Source
Kia Group PT-2022

Common Reliability Issues - KIA STINGER-GTS Compatible Models

The Stinger GTS's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles using poor-quality fuel or exceeding service intervals. Kia TSB 21-GAS-008 notes a cluster of pump failures before 80,000 km under these conditions, while DVSA data indicates turbocharger actuator faults are a common cause of boost-related warning lights. Neglecting oil changes and using low-grade fuel make preventative maintenance critical.

High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure
Symptoms: Engine misfires under high load, loss of power, illuminated MIL, fuel pressure-related DTCs, hard starting.
Cause: Internal wear or failure of the high-pressure fuel pump, often accelerated by fuel contamination, water ingress, or insufficient lubricity from low-quality petrol.
Fix: Replace the high-pressure fuel pump and fuel filter with updated OEM parts per Kia TSB 21-GAS-008; inspect fuel lines and tank for contamination.
Turbocharger wastegate/actuator failure
Symptoms: Loss of boost pressure, overboost/underboost DTCs, whistling or hissing noises from turbo area, reduced power.
Cause: Wear or sticking in the electronic wastegate actuator mechanism, or carbon buildup causing the wastegate flap to bind, preventing precise boost control.
Fix: Replace the faulty turbocharger actuator or, if necessary, the entire turbocharger assembly per OEM procedure; perform boost adaptation reset.
Intercooler hose leaks or disconnections
Symptoms: Hissing noise under boost, loss of power, check engine light with boost pressure sensor codes, reduced fuel economy.
Cause: Degradation or loosening of the high-pressure intercooler hoses due to heat cycling and vibration, leading to boost leaks.
Fix: Inspect and replace any cracked, swollen, or loose intercooler hoses with OEM parts; ensure all clamps are properly torqued.
Carbon buildup on intake valves and ports
Symptoms: Rough idle, hesitation during acceleration, decreased fuel efficiency, potential misfires, failed emissions test.
Cause: Accumulation of carbon deposits on the intake valves and ports, a common issue with direct-injection engines where fuel no longer cleans the intake tract.
Fix: Perform walnut shell blasting or chemical cleaning of the intake valves and ports; consider installing an oil catch can to reduce future buildup.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Kia technical bulletins (2019-2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

KIA STINGER-GTS FAQ Common Questions Answered

The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works

The Stinger GTS engine is robust when maintained meticulously. Its primary weakness is the high-pressure fuel pump, which can fail prematurely with poor fuel or infrequent servicing. Using premium RON 98 fuel, adhering to strict oil change intervals, and addressing boost system warnings immediately are crucial for longevity. Later production models incorporated pump revisions for improved durability.

The most frequent issues are high-pressure fuel pump failure, turbocharger wastegate/actuator faults, intercooler hose leaks, and carbon buildup on intake valves. These are well-documented in Kia service bulletins and often relate to fuel quality, maintenance neglect, or the inherent stresses of a high-performance twin-turbo engine.

The 3.3L twin-turbo V6 engine in the GTS specification was used exclusively in the Kia Stinger GTS (CK chassis) from 2019 to 2023. It was the highest-performance variant of the Stinger, featuring unique tuning, cooling, and visual enhancements over the standard 3.3L V6 model.

Yes, the engine responds exceptionally well to tuning. A Stage 1 ECU remap can safely increase power by 40-60 kW and torque by 80-100 Nm. For Stage 2+, upgrades like a downpipe, intercooler, and intake are recommended. The stock internals are strong, but aggressive tuning increases stress on the fuel pump and turbos, demanding even more rigorous maintenance.

Fuel economy is typical for a high-performance V6. Expect around 14.5 L/100km (city) and 8.5 L/100km (highway), or approximately 22 mpg UK combined. Real-world figures are heavily dependent on driving style; spirited driving will significantly reduce efficiency. The official WLTP figure is 10.2 L/100km combined.

Yes. The Stinger GTS V6 is an interference engine. If either of the timing chains were to fail or jump, the pistons would collide with the open valves, causing catastrophic internal engine damage. The chains are generally durable with proper oil maintenance.

Kia mandates a fully synthetic oil meeting ACEA C3 specifications, typically in 5W-40 viscosity. This is crucial for handling the high thermal loads of the twin-turbo engine and protecting the turbochargers. Using the correct oil and changing it every 10,000 km or annually is non-negotiable for engine health.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

Platform Overview

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If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.

Regulatory Stability

EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.

Primary Sources

KIA Official Site

Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.

EUR-Lex

EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).

GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C

UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.

DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT

Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.

Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)

UK type-approval authority for automotive products.

Regulatory Context

Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.

Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151

WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.

GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval

UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.

VCA Certification Portal

Type-approval guidance and documentation.

Methodology

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Last Updated: 25 Feb 2026

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialKIA documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed”.

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