Kia has recently released the official images of the updated Cadenza, considered to be the sister car to the Hyundai Azera as well as the smaller sibling of the Kia Quoris. The Cadenza uses the same styling as the other models in Kia’s lineup, such as the front grille, headlights and front fascia. The rear end takes on some styling features of the Optima. Meanwhile, the wheels used are those from the Quoris. The Cadenza will be a front wheel drive model unlike the Quoris, which has the same platform as the rear-drive Hyundai Genesis and Equus. The 2012 Hyundai Azera is exclusively available with a 293 hp 3.3-liter V6, which will most probably power the Cadenza. Kia has yet to confirm if the Quoris or Cadenza would be offered in the U.S. but Kia has mentioned that the company is always monitoring the market to detect new growth opportunities. Kia also said that it likes the idea of a premium model above the Optima but it hasn’t yet made a decision. Kia also said that there is an apparent need for a luxury vehicle in North America, citing that the Optima reported higher mid- and upper-trim level mix rates than a lot of more well-known rivals.
Kia unveils the 2013 Cadenza/K7 sedan
by Andrew Christian, Email, 30 Oct, 2012
