What's New
The 2020 Kia Cadenza range has been slimmed down to two trim levels, with the former base model being no longer. It also receives a host of exterior styling revisions, including a redesigned hood, grille, and bumper.
The dash and instrument cluster have been improved, while a new 12.3-inch touchscreen becomes standard. Wireless phone charging, remote start, and improved safety features also join the list of enhancements.
Choosing Your Kia Cadenza
The Cadenza range is easy to navigate, with just two trim levels to choose from: Technology and Limited. Technology models cost $38,885 including destination, while the Limited is priced at $44,585.
Engine Choices
The Cadenza is powered by a 3.3-liter V6 engine, driving the front wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission. The engine generates 290 horsepower and 253 pound-feet of torque.
According to the EPA, the setup returns 20 miles per gallon city, 28 mpg highway, and 23 combined.
Passenger and Cargo Capacity
Cargo capacity for the Cadenza, which can seat five passengers, stands at 16.0 cubic feet.
Safety Features
Kia has majored on safety with the Cadenza, and a comprehensive roster of safety equipment starts with automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane change assist, rear parking sensors, and adaptive cruise control.
Limited models additionally receive a surround-view monitor, rear automatic emergency braking, and a blind-spot monitor.
Connectivity
A major change for the 2020 model year is the introduction of a newly standard 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which dominates the Cadenza’s dash. Equipped with navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, this unit also powers the eight-speaker audio system. There are four USB charging ports throughout the cabin, alongside a more powerful 10-watt wireless phone charger. The driver faces a 4.2-inch LCD instrument panel.
However, you’ll need to choose Limited trim to get a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system.
The most affordable model in the Cadenza range is loaded with equipment, starting with a sound-absorbing windshield and side windows, LED headlights and taillights, 18-inch wheels, and a panoramic sunroof with a power sunshade.
Keyless entry and remote start precede a cabin cooled by dual-zone climate, featuring leather seating, and offering power-adjustable front seats. Those front seats are also heated.
The $5,700 price hike to the Cadenza Limited brings over 15 enhancements, including the surround-view camera system and Harman Kardon audio system. Heating elements are added to the steering wheel and rear seats, while the front thrones get ventilation. The upholstery is quilted Nappa leather, and the front seats get more ways to adjust. Limited models also ride on larger 19-inch wheels.
Compare Cadenza Trims Side-By-Side
Despite its undeniable luxury, the price premium for the 2021 Kia Cadenza Limited seems hard to justify when Technology models are already comprehensively equipped.