In its first year, the Kia Cadenza was noticed for its sporty appearance and the fact that although it is a full-size luxury sedan, it doesn’t drive like a boat. The Cadenza is back for its second year in 2015 offering two trim levels—Premium and Limited—with the comfort and convenience features usually found only in much higher priced models.
What's New for 2015
As the Kia Cadenza begins its second year in America’s showrooms, it remains little changed from its debut. The few additions and changes include a standard eight-way power-adjustable passenger seat for both models. The Limited trim gets a new grille and fender garnish as well as the Surround View system that uses four cameras to provide views that come close to covering all 360 degrees around the vehicle. At the Premium level, the Technology package adds rear cross-traffic alert to its collection of safety features.
Choosing Your Kia Cadenza
Kia offers only one engine for all Cadenzas at both trim levels. This 3.3-liter V6 produces 293 horsepower and is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission with Sportmatic. Fuel estimates from the government come in at 19 mpg in the city, 28 mpg on the highway and 22 mpg in combined driving.
Premium
You’ll find a long list of standard features, even at the lower Premium trim level, such as an Infinity 2 Discrete Logic7 sound system with 12 speakers and HD radio. Sirius XM satellite radio, a voice-command navigation system with an 8-inch screen, a universal remote system and a rearview camera are also among the technology features. For comfort, there is leather upholstery and the front seats are heated.
Two option packages allow you to add to the Premium trims features. The Luxury package offers a heated steering wheel, ventilated front seats, Nappa leather trim, heated rear seats, a two-setting memory system, dynamic headlights and a panoramic sunroof, also available as a stand-alone option. The Technology package, which requires the purchase of the Luxury package, includes safety systems such as adaptive cruise control, blind-spot detection, lane-departure warning and rear cross-traffic warning. An electronic parking brake stops roll on hills and in slow traffic.
Limited
The top-level Limited trim includes all of the Premium level's features and options as standard equipment and adds the surround-view monitor, which is not available even as an option on the Premium. You'll also find some additional chrome and wood-grained interior accents and a rear-seat USB charging port.
If you like the feel of luxury and the convenience of the newest technology without the high-power demands and high price of some top-tier imports, the Cadenza may be just what you're looking for. We recommend a competitively priced Premium, though a Limited is still a good value.