Kia has unveiled the second-generation Cadenza sedan at the New York Auto Show
Following the all-new Kia Cadenza's debut as the K7 in South Korea in January 2016, the automaker has now unveiled the new sedan for in US-specification.
The 2017 Kia Cadenza sports a new look both inside and out, new technologies, a stronger body structure, and an improved powertrain. Responsible for the way the new Cadenza looks is Kia's California design studio, where the Soul has also been penned.
The 2017 Cadenza sports a new front fascia with the signature Kia "tiger nose" grille evolved into a new hexagonal shape. Kia will offer the choice of two grilles: lower trim models will get a "Diamond Butterfly" grille with a concave shape while higher trim models will feature the "Intaglio" grille sporting vertical, faceted blades. The bodywork's clean lines are offset by striking details such as the Z-shaped lighting signatures in the headlights and LED taillights.
As far as dimensions are concerned, the new Cadenza retains the overall length of its predecessor while having a slightly wider and lower body. The wheelbase is slightly longer than before, which translates into increased legroom for rear passengers (by 0.5 inches).
Speaking of the interior, Kia says the 2017 Cadenza packs higher quality materials and higher levels of craftsmanship such as soft leather with real stitching, as well as other soft-touch materials. The cockpit is said to feature an improved human-machine interface with ergonomic design and intuitive controls. New creature comforts include a Head Up Display, an updated Surround View Monitor, Smart Trunk, and the latest generation UVO infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay as standard.
Driver assistance features include Advanced Smart Cruise Control with stop-and-go functionality, Forward Collision Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking, as well as Lane Departure Warning and Smart Blind Spot Detection System.
The automaker claims the new Cadenza offers a more pleasant driving experience thanks to a lowered driver's seat, as well as an increased structural stiffness (by 35 percent), thanks to a body structure composed of more than 50 percent of Advanced High Strength Steel (AHSS). Furthermore, the chassis is lighter thanks to the use of aluminum in key areas.
The 2017 Cadenza features Amplitude Selective Damping (ASD) shock absorbers that are said to maximize ride comfort without affecting stability. Finally, the steering is purportedly more responsive than before thanks to a new 32-bit Electronic Control Unit (ECU), replacing the 16-bit processor in the outgoing model.
The engine remains the same 290 hp 3.3-liter V6 engine, which has been retuned for improved fuel economy (figures will be announced closer to the launch date). The engine is mated to a new 8-speed automatic transmission that sends power to the front wheels.
The second-generation Kia Cadenza will go on sale in late 2016 in the United States, with pricing to be announced closer to launch.