Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2016 Kia Cadenza
Our scoring places the 2016 Kia Cadenza at 7.4/10 overall, which translates to a Good rating for this sedan. Its strongest dimension is Safety at 8.0/10, while Performance at 6.7/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a capable but unexceptional sedan — stronger alternatives exist if you're willing to shop the segment carefully.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. We score reliability at 7.6/10 — better than most direct rivals, if short of the segment's best. The safety score of 8.0/10 is solid mid-pack territory. If advanced driver aids matter to you, compare standard equipment carefully and verify ratings at nhtsa.gov.
Performance at 6.7/10 is a genuine liability and a score that should factor heavily into any buying decision. The powertrain and chassis dynamics trail class rivals by a meaningful margin — don't overlook it. Tech rates a reasonable 7.2/10: the essentials are covered and well executed, but rivals at the same price often include more as standard.
Priced from $24,966–$31,018, 19 MPG, seating 5, the Kia Cadenza sits in the budget-friendly tier of the sedan market. The 7.6/10 value score says the pricing is fair rather than generous; cross-shop the segment before signing anything. At 10 years old, resale value, parts availability, and whether a successor model has improved on its weak points are all worth investigating before committing.
Our take: The 2016 Kia Cadenza is a passable sedan but not a standout one. Weaknesses in performance hold it back from being a strong recommendation. It may suit buyers with specific needs it serves well, but we'd encourage comparing at least two or three higher-scored alternatives before deciding.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among Sedans
The 2016 Kia Cadenza ranks #687 of 1310 sedans in the Carivo database — better than 48% of the segment. Its 7.4/10 overall score is 0.1 points below the segment average of 7.5/10. Its $24,966 starting price undercuts the segment's median of $27,664 by about 10%.
$0 — 2 campaigns on record; recall work is always free at franchised dealers
Insurance
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which Cadenza Year Should You Buy?
Across the Cadenza model years we've scored, the 2016 holds its position — we didn't find an older year that delivers similar scores for meaningfully less money.
Above-average reliability record with solid owner satisfaction data
Strong safety ratings from NHTSA and independent testers
Good overall value; holds its own against pricier alternatives in the segment
✗ Where it falls short
Driving dynamics are adequate but uninspiring; not the choice for enthusiast drivers
Tech suite is functional but lags behind segment-best options; some features cost extra
Fuel economy at 19 MPG is low — running costs will add up quickly
NHTSA Recalls — 2016 Kia Cadenza (2 on record)
The following recall campaigns have been filed with NHTSA for this model and year. Recall repairs are performed free of charge by franchised dealers; check your specific vehicle with our free VIN recall checker.
Visibility / Windshield 15/03/2022 · 22V158000
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling all 2014-2016 Cadenza vehicles. During manufacturing, the front windshield may not have been properly bonded to the vehicle, allowing it to detach.
Service brakes, hydraulic / Antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip / Control unit/module 25/09/2023 · 23V652000
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014 Sorento, and 2010-2011 Rondo vehicles. The…
Source: NHTSA recall database, fetched at page build time.
Own a 2016 Kia Cadenza that's been repaired repeatedly for the same problem? It may qualify under your state's lemon law — run the free lemon law check →
Common Questions — 2016 Kia Cadenza
Is the 2016 Kia Cadenza reliable?
We rate the 2016 Kia Cadenza's reliability 7.6/10 — above the middle of the pack for this class. It has 2 NHTSA recall campaigns on record for this model year (details in the recalls section above — repairs are free at dealers).
How many recalls does the 2016 Kia Cadenza have?
2 NHTSA recall campaigns matched this model and year as of our latest check. Verify your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Is the 2016 Kia Cadenza worth buying?
It scores 7.4/10 overall, ranking #687 of 1310 sedans in our database (better than 48% of the segment). Stronger-scoring alternatives exist at similar prices — use our compare tool before committing.
How much does the 2016 Kia Cadenza cost?
The 2016 Kia Cadenza starts at $24,966 and ranges up to $31,018 across trims (MSRP when new). At 19 MPG, expect roughly $2,763/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which Cadenza years should you avoid?
No standout weak years: across the 6 Cadenza model years we've scored, every year lands within half a point of the best (7.6/10). Pick on price and condition rather than year.
What problems does the 2016 Kia Cadenza have?
The documented issues for the 2016 Kia Cadenza are its NHTSA recall campaigns, which involve: Visibility, Service brakes, hydraulic (details in the recalls section above; repairs are free at dealers). For wear-and-tear patterns beyond recalls, owner forums are the best source — we only report what federal data documents.
Owner Essentials — Kia Cadenza
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