2017 Kia Cadenza Arrives Late 2016 With 8-Speed Auto

The second-generation Kia Cadenza has made its North American debut at the 2016 New York Auto Show.

Introduced in South Korea late last year, Kia has brought the 2017 Kia Cadenza stateside with a new body structure that is stronger, lighter and more rigid. It also features the Korean automaker’s first front-wheel-drive eight-speed automatic transmission. Designed at Kia’s California studio, the signature Kia “tiger nose” grille is prevalent up front, now sporting a concave form that curves towards the engine bay.

Lower trim models of the Cadenza will come with the “Diamond Butterfly” front grille, featuring the same three-dimensional pattern found on other siblings within Kia’s lineup. Higher trim models in the Cadenza’s lineup will receive the “Intaglio” grille with vertically oriented, faceted blades.

SEE ALSO: 2016 New York Auto Show Coverage

While the sedan has the same overall length as the outgoing model, it is slightly wider and lower in height. The wheelbase has been stretched slightly, adding nearly a half-inch of increased legroom for rear passengers.

Kia also placed an emphasis on upgrading the interior, redesigning it with even higher quality materials. The door panels feature higher quality soft-touch materials, while soft leather can be found throughout the cabin. Nappa leather is also available with quilted seat bolsters further accented by diamond-shaped stitching.

Under the hood of the 2017 Kia Cadenza is a 3.3-liter V6 engine that has been revised to deliver improved fuel economy. It is estimated to make 290 horsepower, although exact power output and fuel economy figures will be announced at a later date.

The 2017 Kia Cadenza is set to go on sale in late 2016 with pricing to be announced closer to the vehicle’s launch date.

Discuss this story on our Kia Cadenza Forum