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2018 Kia Cadenza review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise
6 photos

Kia Cadenza highlights

Customer rating

(not yet rated)

Pros

  • Great base trim features
  • Generous legroom
  • Lots of available driver aids

Cons

  • Sunroof impacts headroom 
  • Ride engagement is underwhelming
  • Smaller than rivals

Mileage (EPA estimate)

20 city, 28 highway, 23 combined

Pricing for current inventory

(no current inventory)

6 photos
Price
Year

Sophisticated large sedan, full of features

The 2018 Kia Cadenza continues to impress with its sophisticated design and luxurious amenities. Following its 2017 redesign, the Cadenza remains largely unchanged for 2018, featuring a powerful engine for smooth driving. Its spacious and well-appointed interior is designed for ultimate comfort and convenience, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a blend of style and substance in a sedan.

All Kia Cadenza years

What is new for the 2018 Kia Cadenza?

  • Cadenza trims have been upgraded with CD Audio as standard equipment this year.

2018 Kia Cadenza trims

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

Premium:

Technology:

  • Includes all features available on the Premium
  • Panoramic Sunroof
  • Memory Seats
  • A/C Seats
  • Heated Steering Wheel
  • Parking Sensors
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Sunroofs

Limited:

Kia Cadenza photos

5 reasons to buy the 2018 Kia Cadenza

1. V6 engine 

The Cadenza's 3.3L V6 engine delivers a smooth and powerful ride, offering 290 horsepower for responsive acceleration and effortless cruising. This engine, paired with a refined transmission, provides balanced performance, suitable for both city driving and long journeys. It'll get an EPA-estimated 23 mpg combined.

2. Generous Technology trim 

The Technology trim adds extra features to an already well-equipped sedan, including 19-inch wheels, LED lighting, and a suite of driver-assist like forward collision warning and adaptive cruise control. Inside, you'll find luxury touches like a heated steering wheel, ventilated seats, and a premium Harman Kardon® audio system. To make each journey easy and ensure you stay connected, you'll appreciate user-friendly tech like navigation and wireless charging. 

3. Seat dimensions 

The Cadenza's interior boasts impressive dimensions, offering ample space for all passengers. You and your front seat passenger can enjoy 45.5 inches of legroom, while rear passengers have 37.2 inches, ensuring comfort during long drives. The cabin's premium materials and finishes elevate the overall driving experience. 

4. Standard tech 

Equipped with a seven-inch touchscreen, the Cadenza supports Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto, allowing easy smartphone integration. Bluetooth® connectivity and an eight-speaker audio system enhance the infotainment experience. This makes every journey more enjoyable and connected. 

5. Available storage 

The Cadenza offers numerous storage compartments for small items, including a spacious glove compartment and door pockets. The trunk provides a generous 16 cu-ft of space, which is enough for luggage for vacations as well as for all your daily needs. While the rear seats don't fold down, a pass-through adds some flexibility for carrying longer items. 

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

The 2018 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.

View RepairPal's full rating of the Kia Cadenza

Kia Cadenza features and specs

Premium 2WD 4D Sedan

Standard Features

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

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

195.7"

Width

73.6"

Height

57.9"

Leg room

F 45.5"/R 37.2"

Head room

F 40.2"/R 37.9"

Front tires

P245/45VR18

Rear tires

P245/45VR18

Seating capacity

5

Transmission

Automatic

2018 Kia Cadenza FAQ

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