[Dirt McGirt]

Although it is the last car on the list, the Kia Cadenza made Forbes' 15 Hottest New Cars For 2014. Often comparing the Cadenza to the Optima, Forbes stresses the interior of the Cadenza and its available amenities as being its selling points. However, when looking under the hood, the Cadenza's 3.3-liter direct-injected 293 horsepower V6 is less fuel efficient than the Optima's 2.0-liter turbo-four engine. In the end, Forbes found the Optima to be the better buy, suggesting the Cadenza "doesn't make a compelling case for itself as a major upgrade over the less expensive Optima". What do YOU think?

 

[EscalonJon]

Is a sport shirt an improvement over a tee shirt? I think it is a matter of preference. Which is more comfortable for you? Which makes you feel/look like you want to feel/look? I was ready to buy an Optima SXL as soon as they came out. When I heard about and started looking into the Cadenza, it seemed like it was more of a fit. I have had many "sporty cars" and never really ever had a "luxury car". So, as much as I would enjoy the tuning and modding of the Optima, I think just dressing up the Cadenza will be enjoyable as well. The Optima and the Cadenza are really aimed at different market segments, but there is some "overlap". There are already and will be many Optima owners "stepping up" and many new owners who will have to make a choice. I am willing to buy the additional gasoline if that's the case in order to drive something that will satisfy my driving needs more fully.

I love the Optima, but the Cadenza is the way I will go...hopefully an SXL.

Thanks for the nice article, Dirt!

John