DETROIT: Kia is making a move into the North American premium sedan market with the 2014 Cadenza, which goes on sale later this year.
It was unveiled Tuesday at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Kia Motors America said the car comes amid interest among its customers for a sedan with more upscale amenities and technology. The car replaces Kia’s Amanti.
The arm of South Korean automaker Kia Motors Corp. describes the Cadenza as having elements of European design, which help define the luxury market, and it will be offered with Kia’s most powerful V-6 engine. Kia in 2009 launched a version of the Cadenza in its home market.
Kia got its start in the U.S. as an economy car maker, but has been moving upscale with the Optima midsize sedan and the Sorento crossover. Last year its U.S. sales jumped nearly 15 percent thanks to higher demand for the Optima as well as the compact Rio.
The Cadenza’s 3.3-liter, V-6 engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission that includes a manual shift mode and paddle shifters on the steering wheel. It produces 293 horsepower and is designed to run on regular unleaded gasoline.
The Cadenza is being offered with features such as an advanced navigation system, a backup camera and warning system, as well as a 550-watt 12-speaker audio system. One package includes full-length panoramic sunroof, a 7-inch LCD instrument cluster and premium leather seats.
The front of the Cadenza features what Kia describes as an aggressive “Tiger Nose” that echoes the look of some other Kia vehicles. With a long hood and a swept-back windshield, it aims for a smooth look.
The car’s price will be announced closer to when it goes on sale, expected in the second quarter of 2013.
Kia has seen success by adding higher-end touches to its vehicles, and the Cadenza could attract buyers if its price comes as a significant discount versus other established luxury automakers.
While the Cadenza aims for the premium market, it faces tough competition. Hyundai has made the jump to luxury, for example, but it’s unclear where Kia will fit.