2019 Kia Cadenza

For almost any modern vehicle category, there’s a Kia that’s worth considering buying. Among small and midsized SUVs, models like the Sportage and Sorento rank near the top in their respective classes for their nice interiors, ride comfort, and appropriately powerful engines. SUVs like the Telluride have ride comfort, interior space, and overall value that earn it regular placement near the top of Consumer Reports’ ratings. Fuel economy across the brand is generally good, but hybrid and plug-in hybrid options are available for even more miles per gallon. Plug-in hybrid options have useful all-electric driving range. Kia EVs are generally competent, ranging from compact sedans up to a three-row SUV. Kia’s reliability scores have been improving, but other brands score higher in our rankings. Specific Kia models have earned our recommendation among used cars.

Although the styling changes are subtle, the redesigned 2017 Cadenza features an all-new body structure. The new car is based on the Kia Optima, but it is considerably larger, competing with the Toyota Avalon and Chevrolet Impala. The car is roomy and quiet, with easy-to-use controls. Ride and handling are nothing special but pleasant enough. The 290-hp, 3.3-liter V6 is slick and powerful, and the eight-speed automatic shifts smoothly. Higher-end Limited versions include more soft-touch surfaces, real stitching on the dashboard, and available Nappa leather seats. For 2020, the Cadenza comes standard with a suite of safety and convenience systems, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, lane keeping assistance, blind spot warning, rear cross traffic warning and adaptive cruise control. This was also the final year for the Cadenza.