Flash Drive

2017 Kia Cadenza

July 18, 2017 - Behind The Wheel - Comments: 

Model Tested: 2017 Kia Cadenza Limited

The 2017 Kia Cadenza is a very handsome near-luxury sedan that’s loaded with modern safety features.

Engine: 3.3-liter V6, 290 horsepower 253 lb-ft torque

Transmission: 8-speed automatic transmission, front-wheel-drive

EPA Rating: 20-mpg city/28-mpg highway/23-mpg combined

Base Price: $44,390

As Tested: $45, 290

Performance:

Excellent V6 engine, ample power/pickup

Strong fuel economy; our best was 32.7 highway

Smooth, comfortable highway ride

The Cadenza has luxury features that include a power rear window shade.

19-inch alloy wheels

Impressive safety features

Autonomous emergency braking

Forward collision warning

Blind spot detection

Lane departure warning

Parking assist

Surround view monitor

LED headlights and fog lights

Rain sensing wipers

Drive modes: comfort, eco, sport, smart

The Cadenza interior is a highlight. The multi-adjustable driver’s seat includes power bolsters and lumbar support.

Comfort:

High quality interior materials

Nappa leather

Suede headliner

Super stretch-out driver and passenger legroom

Driver power thigh support

Power lumbar and side bolsters adjustment

Three temp heated and ventilated front seats

Excellent rear legroom even with fronts all back

Low floor hump

Heated rear outboard seats

Power tilt and telescopic wheel with memory

Thick, contoured, heated leather steering wheel

The rear seat has ample legroom even when the front seats are all the way back.

Very good auxiliary controls

Panoramic sunroof with power sunshade

Ample headroom

Utility:

Power rear sunshade

Manual side window shades

Power, folding side mirrors

Bright LED interior lamps

Long front door bins

Large, locking glovebox

Smart phone charger

Two seatback storage pouches

Fold-down garment hooks (4)

Large trunk; power release

Cadenza controls are plentiful, but easy to use and access.

Flat trunk floor

Wide opening

Back seat doesn’t fold down

Small pass-through opening for small, long items

Bluetooth wireless technology

Large 8-inch navigation touch screen

WOW Factors:

Sharp, contemporary styling

Huge panoramic sunroof

Smart phone charger in console

Impressive value

Harman Kardon premium audio system

The thick leather steering wheel is heated and equipped with excellent auxiliary controls.

High safety features content

Whines:

Back seat doesn’t fold down

Bottom Line:

The Kia Cadenza was redesigned for 2017 and has many similarities to the more expensive Genesis G80. Interior space, comfort, and amenities are tops. Safety features are many and impressive. The highway ride and fuel economy are excellent. The Kia Cadenza combines luxury, safety and value.