[dearmosd]

Hello members of the forum, I want to ask if there were any inputs you could offer to me as a potential buyer. I have my eye on the Kia Cadenza/Toyota Avalon/Chrysler 300S.

Basically I'm looking for a smooth ride, decent stereo, low roadside noise in the cabin, key FOB convenient in the pocket.
-I would like to add remote start to the car (anyone done this, any cost advice?)
The reliability of the 300S has it low on my list and previous Toyota’s will last a long time with good maintenance and Kia should be the same. My previous 300M trans failed at 125K so that’s why Chrysler is lower on my list and currently they have more electronics on the car then before so to me that’s more failures.
I would like some input on the things I’m looking for and any additional opinions. Anyone have any regrets on their purchase?

Thank you in advance

 

[Bike Effects]

I say, go for the Cadenza. Please read my today's post.

http://www.cadenzaforum.com/forum/2...-my-first-trip-my-new-purchase.html#post90057

 

[dearmosd]

Update: I drove a 2014 limited with 14k miles and it performed as expected. I was able to test drive a 2014 premium with 30k for the night and wow, what a difference in ride quality.

All the bells and whistles are great but not needed, but my first priority was ride quality. I don't know if the mileage is the sole contributing factor but I know the 19" wheels and lower wheel profile has to increase road noise and smoothness.

I will definitely be looking for a premium with the thicker tires.

 

[K7Rich]

I agree. I have a 2014 Cadenza SXL that I love however the 19" wheels/tires can ride very rough at times.

I'm a previous VW owner so I'm pretty used to a firmer ride but in $44k car it is disappointing.

The only other complaints I have is that on very hot days the A/C seems to struggle to cool the interior.

Additionally, I'm not to thrilled with the loud valve tapping in the engine I hear when I first start the car. This issue is a well documented compliant with all Hyundai/Kia GDi engines.

Otherwise it is a beautiful car with tons of features and the build quality is awesome.

 

[Bike Effects]

I agree. I have a 2014 Cadenza SXL that I love however the 19" wheels/tires can ride very rough at times.

I'm a previous VW owner so I'm pretty used to a firmer ride but in $44k car it is disappointing.

The only other complaints I have is that on very hot days the A/C seems to struggle to cool the interior.

Additionally, I'm not to thrilled with the loud valve tapping in the engine I hear when I first start the car. This issue is a well documented compliant with all Hyundai/Kia GDi engines.

Otherwise it is a beautiful car with tons of features and the build quality is awesome.

FWIW, I have experienced more than a few days with the temps in the 103-105 range and the A/C has done a great job. I'm surprised to hear your comment. I'm also not getting the cold startup clatter. I just turned over 30,000 miles. How many miles on yours when you got the cold startup clatter?

I too have to agree with your final comment. Tons of features and build quality is great.

 

[gene]

If you want a great ride check out the K900, and great build quality.
If you can go for a certified used ( sorry pre-owned) They have a good warranty.
Can get one with low mileage luxury edition for less than a new limited Cadenza.
If you want new the Cadenza is a great car and buy

 

[Swive]

Figured I'd chime in on this one.....
32,000 miles, used Synthetic Mobile One since the first oil change at 1,500 miles, used Techron @ every 5 tankfuls of gas. Never had the cold engine clatter. AC is a little slow to cool on hot days but gets there eventually. Only repair has been the rain sensor - covered under warranty. Otherwise completely problem free since Feb 2014. (Other than soot on tailpipe and rear bumper - especially when it rains.)

 

[dearmosd]

How would people comment about the ride quality over time with additional mileage added.

I felt a great difference between the 15k car and the 30k, I cant blame all the difference on the rim/tire combo.

I drove a 2012 Avalon and LOVED the ride quality on a 33k car. Its a bit older gen looking but my search is driven by the ride quality so....

 

[dearmosd]

How would people comment about the ride quality over time with additional mileage added.

I felt a great difference between the 15k car and the 30k, I cant blame all the difference on the rim/tire combo.

I drove a 2012 Avalon and LOVED the ride quality on a 33k car. Its a bit older gen looking but my search is driven by the ride quality so....

The down side to Kia (Cadenza) is the quality over time?

 

[Bike Effects]

My Cadenza has 33,200 miles on it. The tires (Hankooks, same as the factory installed tires) have just under 4000 miles on them The ride quality is excellent with literally no tire/road noise. This car feels and sounds like a brand new car.