carivo.co
Independent review & score by Carivo
| Engine | 3.3L 6-Cylinder |
|---|---|
| Transmission | Automatic (S8) |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel Type | Regular |
| City / Hwy MPG | 20 / 27 MPG |
| Combined MPG | 23 MPG |
| Est. Annual Fuel Cost | $2,950 |
| COâ Emissions | 386 g/mi |
| Seating Capacity | 5 passengers |
| Body Style | Sedan |
| Base Price | $27,922â$35,436 |
Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
The 2019 Kia Cadenza is a sedan that earns a Carivo score of 7.6/10 â rated Recommended. Its strongest dimension is Safety at 8.4/10, while Performance at 7.0/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a solid all-rounder that delivers across most dimensions without obvious deal-breakers.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. Reliability comes in at 7.8/10 â above average, with owner data showing fewer issues than the segment mean. It's not flawless, but it's a dependable choice for most buyers. Safety lands at 8.4/10 â solid scores across crash testing with a reasonable standard safety package, though some rivals offer more advanced driver-assist features as standard.
Performance scores 7.0/10 â competent for everyday use. Acceleration and handling are adequate for commuting and highway driving, though enthusiasts looking for a more engaged driving experience will want to look at higher-rated alternatives. Technology comes in at 7.1/10 â functional and modern, with wireless connectivity and core ADAS features, though some competitors pack more standard tech at this price point.
Priced from $27,922â$35,436, 22 MPG, seating 5, the Kia Cadenza sits in the mid-market bracket of the sedan segment. At 7.5/10 for value, it delivers fair pricing for what's on offer, though the best alternatives in this price range score slightly higher. At 7 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 2019 Kia Cadenza is a solid, well-rounded sedan that covers the essentials without obvious deal-breakers. For most buyers in this segment, it's a safe, dependable choice.
Carivo scores are built from NHTSA crash-test results, EPA fuel-economy figures, manufacturer-published specifications, and long-term owner reliability data. Every score is reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology â
Explore the full lineup of Kia models scored by Carivo â ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.