2017 Kia Cadenza redesign revealed

The 2016 New York Auto Show is playing host to the world debut of the all-new 2017 Kia Cadenza. The new model improves on its predecessor with a nicer cabin, better connectivity and driver assistance tech, a stronger body structure, and powertrain enhancements for a “more premium experience” behind the wheel.

Designed at Kia’s California design studio, the new Cadenza features a different interpretation of the corporate “tiger nose” grille, LED running lamps up front and LED tail lights, aside from a new profile that expands on rear space.

While the new Cadenza has the same overall length as the outgoing model, it’s slightly wider and lower in height. The wheelbase has been stretched slightly, contributing to a centimetre of increased legroom for rear passengers.

The 2017 Cadenza’s interior has a wraparound dashboard that flows into the door panels and features real stitching. The door panels apparently now have higher quality soft-touch materials and leather. Nappa leather is available with quilted seat bolsters accented by diamond shaped stitching.

The new model has a body structure has more high-strength steel, as Kia chases a 5-star crash test rating. A driver’s knee airbag helps in this regard and brings the total number of airbags in the vehicle to nine, at least in the top model.

Driver assistance features such as Advanced Smart Cruise Control with stop-and-go functionality, Forward Collision Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Warning, and Smart Blind Spot Detection System are now available.

Newly designed 18-inch or 19-inch alloy wheels and larger brake rotors are part of the package. New to the 2017 Cadenza is a heads-up display, higher-res Surround View Monitor, Smart Trunk which conveniently opens the trunk lid if the sensor detects the key fob for more than three seconds, and a wireless smartphone charger. The latest generation of Kia’s UVO system featuring Android Auto and Apple CarPlay is standard, while a 12-speaker Harman/Kardon system featuring Clari-Fi music restoration technology is an option.

Underneath the hood is a revised version of Kia’s 3.3-litre V6 engine, which has been retuned for improved fuel economy. With an estimated 290 hp on tap, the engine sends power to the front wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission. The new transmission was designed in-house, and is lighter than the unit in the outgoing model.

Expect the new model to become available in the UAE and other GCC countries by winter this year.

Keep track of updates in the Kia buyer guide.