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Kia Cadenza VG and YG (US-spec generations)

20142020 · VG/YG · sedan

Kia's full-size sedan above the Optima, with Peter Schreyer's Tiger Nose grille and an interior that quietly chased Lexus on materials. US-spec used the 3.3L Lambda II GDI V6 (290 hp) with a 6-speed automatic at launch, an 8-speed automatic on the 2017+ second generation. Two generations sold in the US: first-gen VG (2014-2016) and second-gen YG (2017-2020). FWD only. Discontinued in the US after 2020 as buyers shifted to SUVs.

Watch out: The 3.3L Lambda II V6 generally sidesteps the catastrophic Theta II recall pattern but does show carbon buildup on intake valves typical of direct-injection V6s at high mileage. Cadenza service support is thinning post-discontinuation, so a well-documented service history matters more than usual for the asking price.

Full clubhouse — owner Garage Lineage, common problems, year-by-year notes, and product picks — is on the build list.

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