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 31 through 35 of 35.00

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  Big Bobs Cadenza Review - 2014 Kia Cadenza
  By Robert Dena - April 13 - 9:22 pm

  I have owned or leased 5 Kias! This includes an Amonte, three ( 3 ) Optimas, and the Cadenza I am reviewing. The 2014 Cadenza I just traded in was one of the finest cars I have ever owned. I never had one bit of trouble with it and it ran like a dream. My ONLY criticism was getting in and out of the vehicle. Because the car was low to the ground and I have a back that gives me trouble on occasion, it was a little bit of an effort to get in and out. Once seated, I had no problems. I would highly recommend this vehicle to ANYONE, and that includes luxury car owners. I can make that statement, because I have owned Cadillacs, Lincolns and other high end vehicles. My advice is simply this, if you can afford a Cadenza, buy it and you will not be disappointed.

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  Cadenza review brief update - 2014 Kia Cadenza
  By 6406nb - June 17 - 10:55 pm

  I just want to mention that we have now bought a booster pillow at Target for the passenger seat as shorter passengers cannot see over the dash. As much as I love the car, Ive never had to do this before.

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  Good value but in the shop a lot - 2014 Kia Cadenza
  By Lucasbonner214 - March 25 - 1:17 pm

  Its a great value however before my car even had 55,000 miles on the odometer I had the fuel sending unit and oxygen sensor replaced. The rack and pinion also failed all repaired under warranty. I wasnt expecting all these things with such low mileage. The car has never stopped running at all despite the problems. I had one issue where the entire car just died and needed a jump. The car turns head everywhere I go. I love the look and functions of the car. I think youll love the car as if repairs do arise they are a lot cheaper than the other luxury brands. The car is excellent on the highway and very comfortable on long trips. Ive enjoyed this car despite the few issues and I think you would too.

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  Complete Car for the Majority of People-UPDATE - 2014 Kia Cadenza
  By Stan Cochran - February 22 - 8:04 pm

  UPDATE: Bought the 2016 and couldnt be happier. Much nicer than the 14, Insurance rates dropped due to the additional safety equipment . You should shop and drive all the vehicles you have an interest in, investigate the cost of ownership, and the intangible pleasure factor of driving the car in as many situations as possible. Then and only then should the hesitant people should drive the Cadenza, with the comparative of your chosen vehicles, make an informed decision especially when you look at the cost to operate and buy plus the warranty. The answer is so apparent that Kia Cadenza is the right choice if those guidelines are important to you. I have never had anyone in my car that wasnt impressed and some ultimately bought a Cadenza. the ONLY issue I have had with my car is that upon starting after sitting for a short while, I get timing chain noise on startup. I have talked with other owners that do not have this issue and Kia is doing everything to fix the problem. When the 2016 Cadenza comes out I will most likely buy it, provided I can turn loose of my 14. UPDATE: Bought my 2016 Cadenza! Better actual gas mileage than my 2014 Cadenza with more safety features. Again totally happy with this car.

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  Celina Cadenza - 2014 Kia Cadenza
  By James Barthel - February 12 - 8:30 pm

  This is a great car. I traded in my 2014 for a 2015. This new one had a few more features that I really liked and had to have.