2014 Kia Cadenza

'A Spacious and Luxurious Private Retreat'

2014 Kia Cadenza (Courtesy of Kia)

The Kia Cadenza is a premium sedan that has sophistication, styling, and luxury while providing expansive technology and vigorous performance.

The first noticeable thing about the Cadenza is the comfort. The two most appreciated comfort features, although not standard, are the ventilated driver’s seat that circulates air through perforations in the seat leather; and the heated front seats plus optional rear outboard cushion, both helping to ensure comfort during the cold weather. Like the icy spell Texas had this week. The driver can set his own comfort setting. 

The Cadenza comes with several technologically advanced features. One is the UVO eServices infotainment system with voice command, navigation/rear camera display, Bluetooth wireless and Sirius XM satellite radio. Others include Hill Assist Control, backup warning system, solar control glass, and smart key with push button start.

However, some advanced features like blind spot detection, lane departure warning, and smart cruise control are part of the Technology Package which adds an additional $3,000 to the MSRP of $36,100. 

A powerful 3.3 L gasoline direct injection V6 engine delivers a fine performance with 293 hp and 255 lb.-ft. torque. Even with this power you get an impressive estimated city/highway mpg of 19/28. Cadenza boasts a 6-speed Sportmatic automatic transmission with Adaptive Learning. 

The suspension system provides a smooth, quiet ride and precision handling, contributing to the cabin comfort that was mentioned earlier. 

Cadenza wraps its occupants in a protective zone. There is an advanced airbag system that includes dual front, front and rear seat-mounted side, and full-length side-curtain airbags, for a total of eight advance airbags. 

The cabin is constructed from a high-strength, tensile, steel-reinforced body that absorbs impact energy to help protect you in case of a collision. Items like tire pressure monitoring system, electronic stability control and electronic brake-force distribution are additional safety features that complement the advanced airbag system. 

The first part of the week was beautiful with Indian summer kind of days here in Texas. But by Thursday, the weather changed. First, cold rain fell followed by ice and snow. In just a few days frigid weather brought rain, sleet, and snow to most parts of the United States. 

Despite the weather, I had a prescription that needed to be picked up at the pharmacy. I ventured out Friday in the horrible road conditions. On the trip, I found numerous cars along the roadway abandoned because of mechanical issues or accidents. Driving slowly, using caution, I completed my errand. 

The safety features of the Cadenza are designed to function automatically, allowing the driver to focus on the experience. My pharmacy visit was successful due to the standard features like vehicle stability management traction control and hill start assist. 

Cadenza rests on beautiful 18-inch tires with alloy wheels. Xenon HID headlights with adaptive front lighting chart your forward course while front fog lights provide ground coverage. Rear LED taillights and perimeter approach lighting add to the beauty and safety of the Cadenza.

Industry-leading warranty
10-yr/100,000 mile limited powertrain warranty
5-yr/60,000 mile limited basic warranty
5-yr/100,000 mile limited anti-perforation warranty
5-yr/60,000 mile 24-hour roadside assistance

Dimensions
Wheelbase 112.0 inches
Length: 195.5 inches
Width: 72.8 inches
Height: 58.1 inches
Cargo volume: 15.9 cu. ft. 

Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world. He may be reached at this paper or [email protected].