2020 Kia Cadenza Review
Price Estimate: $15,232 - $17,903
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Average
7.5
out of 10
edmunds TESTED
The 2020 Kia Cadenza provides near-luxury cabin materials, the latest technology features and an emphasis on passenger comfort. It's not terribly exciting, but the Cadenza's spacious interior and all-around competence make it easy to live with day to day. A long warranty gives extra peace of mind for long-term ownership.
Price & Payment
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Average price: $20,737
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Price
Pros
- Well equipped for the price
- Abundant legroom allows passengers to stretch out
- Generous warranty coverage
- Lots of available advanced safety features
Cons
- Headroom, especially with a sunroof, is a bit tight for tall occupants
- The ride isn't as composed as that of segment leaders
- Smaller trunk than rivals and rear seats don't fold down
- From acceleration to handling, the Cadenza isn't much fun to drive
What's new
- Base-level Premium trim has been discontinued
- Exterior and interior styling refresh
- New or updated technology and safety features
- Part of the second Cadenza generation introduced for 2017
Overview
You'd be forgiven if you forgot the Kia Cadenza — Kia's full-size sedan — exists. Among premium vehicles, sedans have been losing ground against SUVs and, let's face it, Kia isn't a name synonymous with luxury. The automaker's hoping the 2020 Kia Cadenza changes that perception with fresh styling and new features.
For sale near Ashburn, VA
8 listings
- Photos not available$21,981fair price
- 36,225 miles
- 20 City / 28 Hwy MPG
- 395 mi away
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Leather Seats
- Sunroof/Moonroof
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Located in Greenville, SC
Vehicle descriptions/photos are not guaranteed accurate. Dealer is not liable for any inaccuracies, claims, or losses and retains all incentives/rebat...
- Features and Specs:
- 23 Combined MPG (20 City/28 Highway)
- Listing Information:
- VIN:
- KNALC4J14L5234228
- Stock:
- EP7016A
- Certified Pre-Owned:
- No
- Listed since:
- 06-22-2026
- 111,784 miles
- 20 City / 28 Hwy MPG
- 516 mi away
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Leather Seats
- Sunroof/Moonroof
- Keyless Entry/Start
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Located in Morgantown, KY
Financing Options for Everyone! As low as $0 Down. No matter what your credit history, We can finance you. Vehicle Service Contracts Available. Call T...
- Features and Specs:
- 23 Combined MPG (20 City/28 Highway)
- Listing Information:
- VIN:
- KNALC4J14L5219325
- Stock:
- 10267
- Certified Pre-Owned:
- No
- Listed since:
- 05-10-2026
Along with a minor exterior face-lift, the 2020 Cadenza has an updated interior with a standard 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, a redesigned instrument panel, and more intuitive placement of audio and climate controls. Kia says it has also improved the adaptive cruise control system and added automatic emergency braking functionality to the rear cross-traffic alert system.
The Cadenza's stiffest competition comes from the Toyota Avalon. The big Toyota offers a smoother, more powerful V6 engine as well as more refined ride and handling over a variety of roads. But Kia counters with excellent warranty coverage and less controversial styling, both of which are attractive attributes to the traditional sedan buyer.
Edmunds Expert Rating
edmunds TESTED
by the Edmunds Experts
Average
7.5
out of 10
We drove the 2020 Kia Cadenza on our test track and on real roads. Our Edmunds team conducts rigorous independent vehicle testing, driving 500,000 miles a year.
Performance
7.5/10
How does the Cadenza drive? Acceleration from a stop is pretty gradual. Passing maneuvers require a heavy foot since the transmission is reluctant to downshift and takes a moment even at full throttle. In Edmunds testing, we recorded a 0-60 mph sprint time of 6.8 seconds, which is a few ticks slower than average for the class.
The braking performance is a little better. Our Cadenza Limited test car came to a stop from 60 mph in 115 feet, shorter than average for a large sedan. Around turns, you'll feel a lot of body lean. There's very little sport in this car's DNA. Midcorner bumps, however, don't affect the Cadenza at all.
The braking performance is a little better. Our Cadenza Limited test car came to a stop from 60 mph in 115 feet, shorter than average for a large sedan. Around turns, you'll feel a lot of body lean. There's very little sport in this car's DNA. Midcorner bumps, however, don't affect the Cadenza at all.
Comfort
8/10
How comfortable is the Cadenza? The Cadenza is a comfort-focused big sedan. But it has a less refined ride quality than some rivals, and the front seats aren't great for road trips since they lack adequate thigh support. The climate control system, though, is strong and has a variety of temperature control functions.
The cabin is quiet enough that you never need to raise your voice to talk. Wind and tire noise is noticeable but not overpowering, and you will hear the engine's unimpressive groan at low speeds. Vibration at idle is nonexistent to the point that you might think there's an engine stop-start system.
The cabin is quiet enough that you never need to raise your voice to talk. Wind and tire noise is noticeable but not overpowering, and you will hear the engine's unimpressive groan at low speeds. Vibration at idle is nonexistent to the point that you might think there's an engine stop-start system.
Interior
8/10
How’s the interior? There's plenty of room for front and rear passengers. Wide doors, a tall door opening, narrow door sills and unobtrusive seat bolsters make it easy to get in and out of the front seats. A gently sloping roofline makes for similarly easy entry and exit for the back row.
The Cadenza's big windows promote excellent visibility to the front and sides. The thick rear roof pillars block your view out back somewhat, but the wide rear window compensates enough that it's pretty easy to see out of the back.
The Cadenza's big windows promote excellent visibility to the front and sides. The thick rear roof pillars block your view out back somewhat, but the wide rear window compensates enough that it's pretty easy to see out of the back.
Technology
7.5/10
How’s the tech? The Cadenza offers the latest tech features, including adaptive cruise control, a 360-degree parking camera, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. We also like the optional 12-speaker Harman Kardon system. It sounds awesome, with a wide volume range and a surround-sound effect that makes instruments and voices sound closer to the listener.
The adaptive cruise control keeps your set speed well. Unfortunately, it's slow to reapply acceleration if the car in front of you has turned or changed lanes. Lane departure warning is too sensitive and triggers alarms with little provocation.
The adaptive cruise control keeps your set speed well. Unfortunately, it's slow to reapply acceleration if the car in front of you has turned or changed lanes. Lane departure warning is too sensitive and triggers alarms with little provocation.
Storage
7.5/10
How’s the storage? The cargo load floor is large and mostly flat. The cargo area measures 16 cubic feet, which is a little underwhelming for a big sedan. There is a pass-through, but the rear seats don't fold. Front-seat occupants get a cubby beneath the center stack and a bin under the armrest to store small items. There's not much in the rear aside from the seatback map pockets. There are four typical-size cupholders split between the front and rear, plus a small bottle holder in each door.
Fuel Economy
7.5/10
How’s the fuel economy? EPA fuel economy estimates stand at 23 mpg combined (20 city/28 highway) for the Cadenza. This is a couple mpg below what you'll get from a Toyota Avalon. We confirmed the EPA's estimates with our test Cadenza, which averaged 26.6 mpg on our 115-mile highway-heavy test route.
Value
8/10
Is the Cadenza a good value? Kia boasts an exceptional warranty, and the Cadenza surpasses its all non-luxury rivals in interior materials. Quilted seat bolsters are an unexpected touch in this class, and thoughtful touches such as a padded driver's knee rest are appreciated. But we're not convinced that the Cadenza is well-rounded enough to justify its cost.
Wildcard
6/10
The Cadenza is a quietly competent large sedan that generates few complaints and inspires even less enthusiasm. It's fine in most regards, but that's about it. Joining the Witness Protection Program and need something to disappear in? The Cadenza is your car.
2020 Kia Cadenza trim level differences
For 2020, the Kia Cadenza is offered in only two trim levels: Technology and Limited. Both are powered by a 3.3-liter V6 engine (290 horsepower, 253 lb-ft) mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. All Cadenzas are front-wheel-drive. Highlight features include: Compare the 2020 Kia Cadenza trim levels in-depth.
Which Cadenza trim does Edmunds recommend?
We'd put our money on the top-of-the-line Limited. We think the upgraded Harman Kardon audio system, ventilated seats and surround-view camera system add a hefty dose of luxury and are worth the extra money.

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Cost to Drive
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$207/mo for Cadenza Technology
Cadenza Technology
vs
$208/mo
Avg. Midsize Car
Reliability
The 2020 Kia Cadenza has a 5 years / 60,000 miles basic warranty and 1 recall. RepairPal gives it a reliability rating of 4 out of 5, ranks it #4 out of 13 among Fullsize Cars. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.
Reliability Rating by RepairPal
4 out of 5 stars4/5Above Average
#4 out of 13 among Fullsize Cars
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
$482/yr
vs. $474/yr
for Average Fullsize Car
for Average Fullsize Car
Frequency
0.86x/yr
vs. 0.97x/yr
for Average Fullsize Car
for Average Fullsize Car
Severity
14%
vs. 13.4%
for Average Fullsize Car
for Average Fullsize Car
powered by RepairPal
Recalls
1 recall foundChecking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.
If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).
- Recall Number:
- 22V022000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- SC225
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 451
- Defect Description:
- Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2020 Cadenza vehicles. The rear power windows can be operated by the driver's power window main switch after the ignition has been turned off and a front door is opened. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 118, "Power-Operated Window Systems."
- Defect Consequence:
- Rear power windows that operate unexpectedly can increase the risk of injury.
- Corrective Action:
- Dealers will update the Driver Door Module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 8, 2022. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC225.
Warranty
5 years / 60,000 miles Basic Warranty- Basic Warranty
- 5 years / 60,000 miles
- Drivetrain Warranty
- 10 years / 100,000 miles
- Rust Warranty
- 5 years / 100,000 miles
- Roadside assistance Warranty
- 5 years / 60,000 miles
Kia Cadenza Reviews
Owner Reviews
5(71%)
4(12%)
3(7%)
2(4%)
1(6%)
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
Surprisingly Great Tech Package update
5 out of 5 starsTom, 08/02/2017
2017 Kia Cadenza Technology 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 8A)
This was the best car I have ever owned.I have owned BMW Convertible, 5 Series M Sport, X5 Plugin Hybrid, Acura TSX & many Toyota's & Honda's. The 2017 Cadenza is the most comfortable car I have ever owned. Full of High Tech in Tech package. Smooth ride, excellent seats (better than Volvo).
August 2018 update
To date this is the best car I have ever owned. No repairs in 1st year and … 21,000 miles. No adjustments of any sort. By comparison my BMW’s needed 3-6 in first year. Tread life on tires is good but tires are too noisy once broken in. Seats are superbly comfortable. Averaging 27 MPG with 50/50 split on highway vs city driving. List price for my car was just under $40000, got it out the door for under $33000. What a great car & what a bargain. Have only less than 10 of them on the road in last year. Nice!
Update 7/19
Now @ 45000 miles & all is well. MPG still 27. Zero problems. Seats comfortable. Occasionally have issue with rear view camera engaging. Zero repairs. Best car I ever owed. 2 years & counting! January 2020 update. 57,000 miles & counting. Still zero problems in 30 months. Still averaging 27.1 total mpg. Very reliable, comfortable, safe & efficient. Front seats are the best, most comfortable one around. We love this car. Now 65000 miles. Zero problems. No repairs. 27.1 total MPG. Did put new battery in 7/20 ($295)
Update January 2021. Now have 70,000 miles on car, mostly highway. Mileage dropped to 26 MPG due to more local driving in last year. Backup camera on occasion still is slow to engage. On occasion the outside temp will register 32 degrees when it might be 55. Will reset in about 5-10 minutes. Still no repairs after 3 1/2 years of ownership and 70,000 miles which is amazing for any car. Maintenance is inexpensive and done right the first time. I love this car. How many people can say that after owning for this amount of time? Of all 16 new cars this is my best one. Update 7/21 75,000 & counting. Owned now 4 years. Still 0 repairs or adjustments. Original brakes & rotors still going strong. Occasional glitch with backup camera no image. Still best car I have ever owned. 1/2022 update. 84,090 miles & going strong. Still zero repairs. Safe, reliable, comfortable. Sorry to see Kia no longer makes the Cadenza. Great car. LAST UPDATE: I sold this car in May 2022. Best car I have ever owned. NO REPAIRS in 5 years & 86,000 miles. Original break pads & rotors. Just changed tires, fluids as needed. Paid $33000 out the door in 2017 & sold to dealer (not as trade in) for $19,500. Only depreciated 40% in 5 years. What a great car but bought 2022 BMW X5 45e.
UPDATE June 2023: After 90,000 miles & zero repairs I sold this car. List price was $40,000 in 2017. I paid $33,000 out the door. Dealer bought it from me for $19,500. Never had to make the first repair. Still has original brakes, pads & rotors. The best car I have ever owned.
2 for 2
5 out of 5 starsjeff, 08/27/2017
2017 Kia Cadenza Premium 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 8A)
I leased a 2015 cadenza, for 2 years after leasing a infinity. The cadenza was a better all around vehicle. I now lease a 2017 cadenza and l love the new style,I have not had a single problem with either car.Plush interior and great performance!
Gotta Have A Cadenza!!!!!
5 out of 5 starsBruce, 12/14/2017
2017 Kia Cadenza Limited 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 8A)
As my lease on my 2015 Chevy Malibu was almost up, I started car shopping and I HATE car salesmen. I looked at several cars including buying a Malibu, Sonata, Cadillac and more, and I had a salesmen suggest I drive a new 2017 Cadenza, which I did. I am glad that I listed to him. I loved the ride, but I was not going to pay $46K for the top of the line model. The lease deal they had … seemed great, but at the end of the day, it was still way too expensive. I knew I wanted a 2017 Limited and preferably white. I found a 2017 used (8200 miles) exactly like I wanted and I saved almost $17k from what it would have cost new. I LOVE THIS CAR. The ride is great, the looks are great and where I was concerned about my gas mileage (the Malibu averaged about 26 mpg around town and I got 32 mpg on the highway), this Cadenza is right there even though it's rated for only 20-28. I drive it like there is an egg under my accelerator and once I get it up to speed, I just hold the gas pedal in place, I don't have to keep feeding it like I did on my Malibu. On a recent highway trip I averaged 37 MPG (YES 37 MPG) and I am getting about 26 mpg around town. What more could a buyer ask for? Great Deal!! Great Looking car!!! Great MPG!!! If you are looking for a nice upscale luxury type sedan, you need to look at the Cadenza. I would highly suggest trying to find a used one and save yourself mega $$$$$.
Big Car Great Value
5 out of 5 starsCindy, 08/14/2017
2017 Kia Cadenza Technology 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 8A)
Bigger than BMW 3 or 5 Series. More Comfortable than Mercedes. Better warranty than everyone. What a value! Had this car now for 1.5 years, 34,000 miles. 0 problems. Rides great, most comfortable seats ever. Great value. Best car I have ever owned.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2020 Kia Cadenza, so we've included reviews for other years of the Cadenza since its last redesign.
2020 Cadenza Features & Specs
Technology
| MSRP (New) Excludes Destination Fee | $37,850 |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Gas |
| Combined MPG | 23 MPG |
| Cost to Drive | $207/month |
| Seating | 5 seats |
| Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 16.0 cu.ft. |
| Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
| Warranty | 5 years / 60,000 miles |
Safety
Our experts like the Cadenza models:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Automatically applies the brakes if a front collision with a vehicle or a pedestrian is deemed imminent.
- Blind-Spot Collision Warning
- Detects whether a vehicle is in the left- or right-side blind spot and sounds an alert if the turn signal is engaged in that direction.
- Parking Distance Warning-Reverse
- Sounds an alert as the Cadenza approaches an object while reversing.
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