Refreshing or Revolting: 2017 Kia Cadenza

Just three years after launching as the Korean automaker’s large front-drive sedan, the 2017 Kia Cadenza gets a host of upgrades including revised styling. Here is a look at the changes made to the redesigned 2017 Kia Cadenza sedan.

Up front, the 2017 Cadenza’s most notable change is its new mug. The edges of the hexagonal grille have been smoothed. While lower trims continue with the automaker’s signature three-dimensional grille pattern, upper trims get a unique look.

Looking head on, the grille gains vertical chrome slats that are almost perfectly straight-up-and-down at the center and start to slant outward at the edges of the grille. From a three-quarter angle, you can see that the vertical slats are concave in the middle and curve outward at the top and the bottom of the grille frame. The reshaped headlight housings feature HID lighting and new Z-shaped LED signature lighting.

From the side, the new Cadenza sedan’s wheelbase grows just 0.4 inches (now 112.4 inches), while overall length grows to 195.7 inches (up 0.2 inches). But the most noticeable change is the longer roof which has extended more than 2.0 inches further back giving it more of a fastback profile. In addition, more chrome exterior accents have been added.

Around back, the 2017 Cadenza features reshaped LED taillights. The redesigned trunk lid features a new chrome strip that flows across the back and connects the top of the taillights above the Kia emblem. The license plate has been moved from the trunk lid to the rear bumper for a cleaner look. New hexagonal exhaust bumper inserts replace the outgoing car’s oval tips.

Inside, Kia gave the redesigned Cadenza a new dashboard with revised HVAC vents and center stack. Infotainment and climate controls have also been revised. The redesign also brings available Nappa leather seating surfaces with quilted seat bolsters and diamond accent stitching. Fancy new tech includes a head-up display (HUD), wireless smartphone chargers, and automatic trunk opener. A lower driver’s seat and extended seat cushions are said to improve ergonomics. Rear legroom has increased about 0.5 inches, while rear headroom should also be more generous with the extended roof.

What do you think about the changes to the redesigned 2017 Kia Cadenza sedan? Share your thoughts below.

Last week, we looked at the styling changes to the refreshed 2017 Hyundai Santa Se. The crossover got some positive feedback: thatsallfolks said, “First off, I vote refreshing, definitely not revolting. The Santa Fe was so far ahead of curve style wise the Santa Fe could go five years without any major changes and still stand out style wise. And the interior is nothing less than fantastic looking, period.” Wayne J. Staib also had positive things to say: “Hyundai’s design is definitely maturing while Kia is looking dated. Prefer the LED lights and placement on the redesign.”

Not all comments were positive, however. Brian Rosado wasn’t impressed: “Meh, for a midcycle refresh it looks fine. I’ve seen cheese more interesting to look at to be honest.” mrc thought it was “Extremely forgettable” and rjgonzo wasn’t sure he spotted the changes: “This is updated?”

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