2015 Kia Cadenza Cuts Price by $200

2015 Kia Cadenza with water-repelling front side windows and 19-inch alloy wheels ・ Photo by Kia

Splitting the difference between the mainstream, mid-sized Optima and the range-topping exclusivity of the K900, the 2015 Kia Cadenza will continue to offer its brand's trademark combination of dynamic style and high content levels in the oft-overlooked full-size sedan segment. But it will do so with a lower MSRP, as the starting price for the 2015 Kia Cadenza Premium falls by $200 to $34,900 for the new model year. 

At the same time, the entry 2015 Kia Cadenza does add a few upgrades, including an eight-way power-adjustable front-passenger seat, to complement the already standard 12-way setup for the driver, as well as an enhanced rear armrestwith cupholder and USB charging capability. Also, the Technology package for the 2015 Kia Cadenza Premium gains a rear cross-traffic alert system to go with carry-over content like smart cruise control, blind-spot detection, lane-departure warning, water-repelling front side windows and 19-inch alloy wheels; additionally, Kia will offer a panoramic sunroof on the Cadenza Premium for the first time as a stand-alone option.

The upper-level 2015 Kia Cadenza Limited, on the other hand, does see a significant rise in starting price, albeit with a corresponding jump in equipment levels. Getting down to the specifics here, the 2015 Kia Cadenza Premium will open at $43,800, which represents a $1,400 increase over the cost of entry to the 2014 edition. But it then adds:

• A restyled grille, accented by a fresh fender-garnish design
• Kia's Flex Steer driver-selectable steering-performance technology
• Surround View Monitor
• LED interior map/room lighting
• Chrome cabin finishes
• Wood-grain/metal interior accents
• A redesigned, analogue clock

All models of the 2015 Kia Cadenza will be motivated by a 3.3-liter V6 engine that routes 293 hp and 255 lb.-ft. of torque through a six-speed "Sportmatic" automatic transmission, with that powertain posting an EPA line of 19 mpg city/28 mpg highway/22 mpg combined.

Sales of the 2015 Kia Cadenza are expected to begin later this year.