Overview & Reviews

The Kia Cadenza is further proof of Kia's current stature as a manufacturer of high-quality vehicles that are both stylish and affordable. With more luxury amenities and interior room than the typical midsize family sedan, the full-size Cadenza sits above the Optima in the manufacturer's sedan lineup.

All Cadenzas come very well-appointed, which results in a slightly higher starting price than some rivals. Still, given the wealth of standard features offered, the Cadenza represents a compelling value proposition. Offering smooth V6 power, a comfortable ride and outstanding craftsmanship, the Kia Cadenza is a solid pick for shoppers in search of a large sedan that looks and feels more expensive than its price tag suggests.

Current Kia Cadenza Specs
Introduced for 2014, the Kia Cadenza is a large luxury sedan. Two loaded trim levels are offered: Premium and the even more posh Limited.

Standard feature highlights include keyless ignition and entry, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, powered and heated front seats, a rearview camera, rear parking sensors, a navigation system, Bluetooth and a 12-speaker sound system. The Limited further boasts, among others, active xenon headlights, a panoramic sunroof, a heated and power-adjustable steering wheel, heated rear seats, adaptive cruise control and blind spot/lane departure warning systems.

The sole powertrain configuration is a 3.3-liter, 293-horsepower V6 that drives the front wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission. The Cadenza shares its platform architecture, engine and transmission with the Hyundai Azera. But Kia tweaked the steering and suspension to give the Cadenza a more sporting personality than its relative. The Kia's exterior styling is quite a bit different, too.

Inside the roomy cabin are well-shaped seats in both the front and rear. Very tall drivers may want to avoid the optional panoramic sunroof, as it eats up a few inches of headroom. Pretty much anybody should be able to find a good driving position, thanks to the wide range of steering wheel and seat adjustments. Even though the Cadenza comes loaded with the latest high-tech gadgets, the controls for the audio, climate, phone and navigation systems are all user-friendly. The Kia's touchscreen display features large virtual buttons and logical menus.

In reviews, we've been impressed with how the Kia Cadenza drives. The V6 is strong, and as a result, passing and merging maneuvers are dispatched swiftly. Power delivery is very smooth, and the transmission provides similarly seamless performance with its undetectable and timely gearchanges. Fuel economy is decent, but there are more frugal choices available in this class. The V6 is the only engine offered, and other models in this segment can be had with hybrid or diesel powertrains.

Around turns, the big Kia feels smaller than it is thanks to its precise steering and buttoned-down attitude. Although the suspension is a bit on the firm side for a luxury car, it's still able to absorb the bumps and ruts of ill-maintained city streets. Long interstate cruises are relaxing thanks to the quiet cabin and comfortable seating.

User Reviews:

Showing 21 through 30 of 35.00

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  So far so good - 2014 Kia Cadenza
  By i_love_cars1 - January 18 - 12:44 pm

  I purchased the 2014 Cadenza in late June and immediately took a 2,500 road trip to California. The Cadenza is a very well behaved sedan that will turn heads and compete with the so-called big boys. I averaged over 30MPG for the trip and power was more than sufficient for my liking. The seats were extremely comfortable and I loved the seat coolers on both front seats, especially as we ventured into the 100+ degree Central Valley. I previously drove a 2002 Audi A6 and was tempted to go that route again, but for $20,000 less, I get fantastic mileage, same creature comfort, a beautifully designed exterior and easy to use electronics. Ill be interested to see how it holds up in the coming years

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  From 2013 Tahoe to 2016 Kia Cadenza - 2016 Kia Cadenza
  By Chapter2 - April 10 - 5:09 am

  Great upscale looking and feeling car for less than 2/3 of what I was paying for the Tahoe. Great move for me as I prep for retirement.

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  7000 Mile Reflections - 2014 Kia Cadenza
  By tunabear1 - February 25 - 4:40 am

  Great responsiveness. Quiet engine. Loaded with extras.

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  Great value, but not quite there as a premium car - 2014 Kia Cadenza
  By shakopeepirate - December 19 - 8:34 pm

  Overall, this is a great vehicle, especially with a lot of them still on lots. Its not a rocket but its fast enough, especially when passing. Its quiet with just a hint of wind noise. I do about 70/30 highway driving and dont go crazy on the gas and still get 27 mpg combined. Most significant disappointment is the stereo/nav system. While the stereo sounds good, it wont blow out any windows. The navigation system needs an overhaul. Directions can be pathetic at times and add unbelievable routes. Maps lose almost all detail after the 700-feet setting and Ive had major highway ramps disappear at some resolutions. A great car but still just a pricier Accord or Camry.

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  From Cadillac to KIA (WHAT?) - 2014 Kia Cadenza
  By jtomo - October 8 - 2:45 am

  My last four cars were (I lease) a Lincoln Continental, Lincoln MKX, and 2 Cadillac CTS’s. I switched a KIA Cadenza. I’m not quite sure why. Price was not the issue. I really liked the car. Both the reviews and my impression of the car from a visual perspective made me lean towards making a change to a KIA. Frankly, I’m a bit of a snob and dropping down in class caused me some concern. But once I got over the status hump and took a chance on this car I have been very much pleased. This car offers everything and more. It may be a little early. But too date, I’ve found it to be a great car and not really a drop in class just name. I might feel a little hurt by not having the “Cadillac” name

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  My first 1200 miles... - 2014 Kia Cadenza
  By dr_chill_2013 - October 3 - 4:31 am

  This past weekend I took my first road trip (800mi rnd trip); I was more than thrilled with how it handled. It’s seriously autobahn ready! The Cadenza was solid at all speeds 70, 80, 90+. No matter the speed, it continued to accelerate with very little prodding; and the steering remained precise/accurate. MPG: On the 1st leg I avg’d 28.7mpg, on the 2nd I averaged 28mpg; I was NOT driving economically. :) In the city, I have averaged 22mpg so far. The features and appointments crammed into this car are ridiculous! To get the same size of car, with the same features, I would have to spend at least $15K more. In short, there are no dancing rats anywhere near this car; it is a joy to drive!

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  Love this car - 2014 Kia Cadenza
  By Mazhar Anik - September 16 - 11:54 am

  I was shopping for a Mercedes, or other top line car, and had never really considered a Kia. I have been a loyal Toyota fan, and have owned multiple Avalons, but the current design of the Toyota models did not appeal to me. This car had all the same features that other luxury models for less than half the price (I bought this car used). With only 12K miles, it was as good as new, and I got a great bang for my buck, even though I paid additional for a long extended warranty. I have owned the car for almost 9 months, and have no real complaints. The one complaint I have is with the ventilated drivers seat, which on very hot days did not really cool. Overall I am glad that I made this purchase.

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  $700 Miles so far and........................ - 2014 Kia Cadenza
  By stevev3 - July 20 - 4:23 am

  Cannot find one issue and Im a German car fanatic. This vehicle is perfect in every way from brakes, power, quietness, to build quality. Even KIA corporate has contacted me for my opinion. This is a whole new game. Its a no brainier and one of the few buying decisions Ive made that I can say I made a great decision. I own the car and Im very direct in my thoughts.

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  2014 Cadenza - 2014 Kia Cadenza
  By sareldlh - June 3 - 10:28 am

  I just leased a new 2014 Cadenza with the Premium and Tech package. I choose the black exterior with white nappa leather. I then -after market had my windows tinted. I put $ 4300 down and did a 36 month,12,000 annual mileage lease. My monthly payment $ 299. I have approx. 1300 miles on the car and have enjoyed every second behind the wheel. Previously,I have driven lexus,Infiniti,BMW,etc and this beats them all. The features that are on the Cadenza would cost a minimum of $ 10-15,000 more on other vehicles. This vehicle is extremely well appointed and handles beautifully. A very happp customer and driver !

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  2014 Cadenza w/Technology Package - 2014 Kia Cadenza
  By 6406nb - June 2 - 7:48 pm

  It has been about three weeks and 1000 miles since I leased this new Cadenza. If someone would have told me 6 months ago I would be driving a Kia, I would have told them they were crazy. But I read about it in some comparison tests and was driving past the dealer, so I randomly stopped to take a look. I was impressed with the aggressive style, and the smoky blue metallic had me hooked. They pulled it right out of the showroom and off we went for a test drive. As a very loyal Toyota and Lexus owner for over 20 years, and the lack of aggressiveness (especially Lexus on the ES) to make a deal pushed me over the line and away I went in the new Cadenza.