Segment:
Full-size Sedan / Luxury Sedan
Brand Perception:
Kia aimed to position the Cadenza as a premium offering, challenging established luxury brands with value and features.
Key Competitors:
Toyota Avalon, Nissan Maxima, Buick LaCrosse, Chevrolet Impala, Hyundai Azera (platform sibling).
Premium Appointments:
Spacious interior, comfortable ride, available premium audio, advanced infotainment features for its time.
Engine Power:
The 3.3L GDI V6 engine provided ample power for comfortable highway cruising and spirited acceleration.
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Lubrication System, Cooling System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Engine Management System, Transmission (Automatic)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Front & Rear), Wheel Alignment
Electrical:
Body Electrical System, Lighting System, Audio System, Climate Control System, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Mirrors), Starting & Charging System, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Diagnostics, Body Control Module (BCM) Diagnostics, Infotainment System
Body And Frame:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Seat Removal/Installation, Glass Replacement
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes (Oil, Coolant, Brake Fluid, Transmission Fluid), Filter Replacements (Oil, Air, Cabin), Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspections/Replacement
Repair:
Engine Mechanical Repair, Fuel System Diagnosis and Repair, Brake System Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Steering Rack Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement, Sensor Calibration, Transmission Service and Repair
Diagnostics:
OBD-II Diagnosis, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting, Component Testing, Wiring Diagram Analysis, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) Interpretation
Adjustment:
Wheel Alignment, Parking Brake Adjustment, Door Latch Adjustment, Mirror Adjustment
Removal Installation:
Comprehensive step-by-step guides for all major components and systems
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to detailed component disassembly, repair, and reassembly, including factory specifications and tolerances.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V6
Displacement:
3.3 Liters (3342 cc)
Horsepower:
Approx. 293 hp @ 6400 RPM (for US market, subject to minor variations)
Torque:
Approx. 255 lb-ft @ 5200 RPM (for US market, subject to minor variations)
Injection Type:
Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended, higher for optimal performance)
Configuration:
Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 24 Valves (4 per cylinder)
Coolant Type:
Proprietary Long-Life Coolant (typically ethylene glycol-based, consult manual for specific Kia specification)
Length:
Approx. 195.7 inches (4970 mm)
Width:
Approx. 72.7 inches (1847 mm)
Height:
Approx. 58.1 inches (1476 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 112.4 inches (2855 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3500 - 3700 lbs (1588 - 1678 kg), varies by trim and options.
NHTSA Overall:
Likely 5-Star (based on typical Kia safety performance for this era, but requires manual confirmation)
Stability Control:
Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS)
Braking Assist:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BAS)
Airbags:
Front Dual Airbags, Front Side Airbags, Full-Length Side Curtain Airbags, Driver Knee Airbag
Seat Belts:
Pretensioning Front Seatbelts with Load Limiters, Rear 3-Point Seatbelts
System Features:
Touchscreen display, navigation (optional), Bluetooth connectivity, USB/Auxiliary inputs, rearview camera (optional).
Available Features:
Parking sensors, Blind Spot Detection (BSD), Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS) may be available on higher trims.
Bluetooth:
Standard for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Climate Control:
Dual-zone automatic climate control typically standard.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 5,000 to 7,500 miles (8,000 to 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific recommendation and oil type.
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or at scheduled intervals (e.g., 30,000 miles/48,000 km).
Cabin Air Filter:
Inspect annually or every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed.
Transmission Fluid:
While often marketed as 'lifetime', fluid replacement is recommended every 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) for longevity, especially under severe driving conditions. Consult manual for specific recommendation.
Engine Oil:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity grade (e.g., SAE 0W-20 or 5W-30) and API/ILSAC classification.
Coolant:
Kia Long Life Coolant (Pink or Orange type, verify specific color/specification in manual).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (verify in manual)
Engine Reliability:
Generally reliable, but GDI systems can be prone to carbon buildup on intake valves over time, potentially requiring walnut blasting or similar cleaning procedures. Some owners report minor oil consumption.
Transmission Performance:
Some reports of occasional rough shifting or hesitation, often manageable with software updates or proper fluid service.
Electrical Components:
Infrequent reports of minor electrical gremlins, such as sensor malfunctions or issues with power accessories, generally resolvable with diagnostic procedures.
Brand Focus:
Kia, originating from South Korea, has evolved into a global automotive manufacturer known for value, design, and increasingly, performance and technology.
Generation:
First Generation (2010-2016 for Korea, 2014-2016 for North America)
Manufacturing Location:
South Korea (primarily)
Sales Period:
Introduced in international markets from 2010, with a North American debut for the 2014 model year. The 2013 model would have been part of the initial international market release.
Safety Awards:
The Cadenza has received good safety ratings from organizations like the IIHS and NHTSA in its target markets, contributing to its appeal.
Consumer Ratings:
Often praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and value proposition compared to more established luxury sedans, though less lauded for driving dynamics.