2013 Detroit: 2014 Kia Cadenza is brand’s first attempt at premium car segment

Kia was one of the many brands in the spotlight on the second day of the auto show, particularly with their latest debut for the 2014 Cadenza full-size sedan. The Cadenza is identical to the Kia K9, though just renamed the former for the North American market. It also represents Kia’s first attempt in the premium automobile segment.

“Since the introduction of the range-topping Optima SXL last year, we have seen an increasing number of customers in our retail outlets looking for a sedan with even more upscale amenities and technology,” said Michael Sprague, executive vice president of marketing & communications, KMA. “The Cadenza is the new flagship for Kia in the U.S. market, and when it goes on sale later this year, it will introduce a number of advanced systems that promise to set a new standard in the premium segment.”

Powering the new Cadenza is Kia’s most powerful V6, which is a 3.3L unit that features direct injection. It produces 293hp and 255 lb-ft of torque and channeling that power is a six-speed automatic transmission. Kia also boasts that this new engine has undergone over 300 hours of straight redlining under load as a testament to this engine’s durability. Additionally, the engine is tested under full load, above redline for 20 hours straight.

Of course being a Kia, expect a huge list of standard options, which include radar-guided cruise control, blind spot and lane departure warning systems, and much more.

All Photos Copyright egmCarTech © Omar Rana.

– By: Chris Chin