Refined Appearance
Designed at the Kia California studio, the new Cadenza is streamlined to give it a more sleek and sporty look. The most distinctive change is the lengthened, concave tiger-nose grille that extends to the headlamps. Lower trim levels have a Diamond Butterfly grill that’s reminiscent of earlier models, while the upper trim levels have a snazzy Intaglio grille that features slim, vertical blades.
The fender flares, sharper character lines, and piano-key taillights further differentiate this vehicle from the 2016 model. The headlamps look sharp thanks to the Z-shaped LED accents. As with most new models, there are also new wheel designs available. While the full specs have not been released yet, we do know that the SLX trim has dark-satin 19-inch wheels.
Quiet and Comfortable
The 2017 Kia Cadenza has an impressively quiet cabin, thanks to features like laminated windshield and front windows, a full underbody cover, and A-pillars with 13 percent more sound insulation than the previous model. On top of that, reviewers are loving the roomy interior. The new model is slightly wider with a longer wheelbase, increasing the backseat legroom by 0.4 inches. The roofline extends two inches further towards the rear, helping to create more space in the trunk without taking away headspace for backseat passengers.
The dashboard is simplified with fewer buttons, and it wraps around to the door handles, contributing to the spacious feel up front. The contoured seating is 14-way adjustable and available in nappa leather. Fans of the White interior package will be glad to hear that Kia is carrying it forward to the new model. Leather-trimmed door panels and dash add the final touch.
Smooth Handling
A newly designed chassis improves the Cadenza’s handling. Built with twice the amount of high-strength steel as the original chassis, it’s 35 percent more rigid than before. Despite the extra steel, the vehicle still manages to stay light; the aluminum suspension helps to drop 40 pounds from the overall weight.
Also new to the Cadenza is an in-house designed eight-speed automatic transmission that allows for faster shifting and smooth acceleration. There is also an upgraded electromechanical steering system. All in all, this makes for impressive handling. The brake response is excellent, and the dampers take care of bumps in the road. In fact, you may not even notice that you’re driving on a bumpy road at all.
Kia is keeping up with competitors by including some of the newest technology available, such as Forward Collision Warning and a Smart Blind Spot Detection System. But what’s really cool is the new Heads Up Display that projects driving directions onto the windshield, making it easier than ever to keep your eyes on the road.
Kia has made some big improvements to the new 2017 Cadenza. In fact, its new elegant design and smooth handling are so impressive that reviewers say it’s a great alternative to its higher-priced competitors. Keep an eye out for it; it’s coming to the U.S. soon!
Image via Kia.com