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2020 Kia Cadenza review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise

Kia Cadenza highlights

Customer rating

(not yet rated)

Pros

  • Generously equipped 
  • Copious legroom 
  • Plenty of available driver aids

Cons

  • Ride lacks composure
  • Small trunk compared to class rivals
  • Uninspiring driver experience 

Mileage (EPA estimate)

20 city, 28 highway, 23 combined

Pricing for current inventory

(no current inventory)

Price
Year

Abundantly spacious full-size sedan

The 2020 Kia Cadenza steps up with a refresh in style, enhanced technological features, and an improved user experience. While the base Premium trim has been discontinued, the remaining models are more opulent than ever, offering a blend of luxury and practicality. This model year sees a fine-tuning in design and functionality, ensuring a sophisticated and comfortable ride for both the driver and passengers.

All Kia Cadenza years

What is new for the 2020 Kia Cadenza?

  • The Premium trim has been discontinued for 2020.
  • Cadenza trims have been upgraded with Automated Cruise Control and Remote Start as standard equipment this year.
  • Automated Parking and Rear Spoiler features are now available as options on select trims.
  • The Technology trim now comes with CD Audio as standard equipment.

2020 Kia Cadenza trims

Curious how Kia Cadenza trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

Technology:

  • 290-hp, 253-lb-ft of torque 3.3L
  • Leather Seats
  • Panoramic Sunroof
  • Power Seats
  • Power Mirrors
  • Smart Key
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Automated Cruise Control
  • Heated Steering Wheel

Limited:

  • Includes all features available on the Technology
  • Rear Seat Heaters
  • A/C Seats
  • Memory Seats
  • Head Up Display
  • Power Hatch/Deck Lid

5 reasons to buy the 2020 Kia Cadenza

1. Updated tech 

The Cadenza's interior was revamped in 2020 with a new 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen and a redesigned instrument panel for easier access to audio and climate controls. Enhanced adaptive cruise control and added rear automatic emergency braking to the rear cross-traffic alert system elevate the driving experience, making it easier to drive and more enjoyable. 

2. Passenger ride enjoyment 

In the 2020 Kia Cadenza, you get a supremely quiet cabin that gives a distinct feeling of luxurt. The ample space in both the front and rear ensures comfort during entry and exit, with wide doors and a thoughtful interior layout. Front-seat passengers get 45.5 inches of legroom while those in the back get 37.2 inches. The large windows offer great visibility, enhancing the sense of openness during the ride. 

3. Technology base trim features 

The Technology base trim is well-endowed with features like LED headlights, a panoramic sunroof, and leather seating. It's equipped with tech such as a 12.3-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay® and Android Autoconnectivity, and wireless charging. Driver aids like adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring add extra convenience to your travels. 

4. Storage options 

Although the trunk space is somewhat limited for a large sedan, the Cadenza compensates with a flat cargo area and a useful pass-through for longer items. You get a total of 16 cu-ft, which is enough for a few items of luggage or a shopping haul. Storage for small items is ample in the front, with a dedicated cubby and armrest bin. Rear passengers have back-of-seat pockets, and bottle holders in the door. Great news if you like an organized and clutter-free environment. 

5. V6 engine 

The Cadenza is powered by a capable 3.3L V6 engine, producing 290 horsepower and 253 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This setup ensures a smooth and responsive driving experience, with sufficient power for both city commuting and highway cruising, all while maintaining front-wheel drive practicality. If frugality is important to you, it'll get an EPA-estimated 23 mpg combined.

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

The 2020 Kia Cadenza is not yet rated. Help future customers learn about a car you've owned and write a review.

4
Above Average

RepairPal gave the Kia Cadenza an overall reliability rating of 4 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks Kia Cadenza 4th out of 13 among Fullsize Cars.

RepairPal reports that the average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Kia Cadenza is $482, compared to an average of $495 for Fullsize Cars and $591 for all the vehicles RepairPal considered in its dataset.

According to RepairPal, Kia Cadenza owners bring their vehicles into a repair shop for unscheduled repairs an average of 0.9 times per year, compared to an average of 0.9 times for Fullsize Cars and 1.3 times for all the vehicles RepairPal considered in its dataset.

RepairPal reported that the probability of a repair being a severe or major issue is 14% for the Kia Cadenza, compared to an average of 14% for Fullsize Cars and 14% for all the vehicles RepairPal considered in its dataset.

Kia Cadenza features and specs

Technology 2WD 4D Sedan

Standard Features

  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • Alloy Wheels
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Automated Cruise Control
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • CD Audio
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Harman Kardon Sound
  • Heated Steering Wheel
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Leather Seats
  • Navigation System
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Panoramic Sunroof
  • Parking Sensors
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Seat(s)
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Defroster
  • Rear View Camera
  • Remote Start
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Side Airbags
  • Smart Key
  • Traction Control
  • Android Auto
  • Apple CarPlay
  • Automated Parking
  • Rear Spoiler

Drive Wheels

Front Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

3.3L

Horsepower

290

Torque (ft-lbs)

253

Engine type

Gas

Fuel capacity

18.5

Wheelbase

112.4"

Overall length

196.7"

Width

73.6"

Height

57.9"

Leg room

F 45.5"/R 37.2"

Head room

F 38.5"/R 37.6"

Front tires

P245/45VR18

Rear tires

P245/45VR18

Seating capacity

5

Transmission

Automatic

2020 Kia Cadenza FAQ


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