The 2014 Kia Cadenza Vs. 2014 Dodge Charger

By Author: Glen Williamson
Total Articles: 5
Comment this article

Since its 1992 introduction into the US market, Kia Motors America has been bringing value, efficiency and stylish design to the automotive market. In 2013, Kia introduced the Cadenza model luxury sedan to North America. With glamorous styling, a strong engine, a finely appointed interior, and a base price just over $30,000, the Cadenza continues the Kia tradition of value and design. In a side-by-side comparison with another sporty sedan, the 2014 Dodge Charger, the 2014 Kia Cadenza compares very favorably.


Performance

Under the hood of the Kia, is a 293 horsepower, 3.3 liter V6 that puts out 255 ft.-lb. of torque. Continuously variable valve timing and an electronically controlled 6 speed transmission put the power to the front wheels. Advertising a combined 22 EPA miles per gallon, and weighing in at right around 3700 pounds, the Cadenza has a 400 mile range.


The 2014 Dodge Charger is available with either a 3.6 liter V6 or a 5.6 liter V8. These engines put out 292 and 370 horsepower respectively while producing 260 and 395 pound feet of torque. The V6, all-wheel drive ...
... model Charger gets a combined 21 EPA mpg and carries just over 19 gallons for an approximate range of 399 miles, with a curb weight of just under 4000 pounds.


Features

The Cadenza is available in both a premium and limited trim package with the premium trim including cloth interior, voice activated navigation and SiriusXM traffic. Additionally, both models include back-up warning systems, dual climate controls, and electronically controlled driver's seat and Infinity sound systems. As the upgrade to the limited trim, leather seats are added along with a heated steering wheel, hydrophobic glass in the windshield, up-sized wheels, LED fog lights and both lane departure detection and blind spot warning systems.


The Charger is available in multiple trim packages related to engine choice. For the basis of comparison, the base model V6 package includes heated, power controlled, cloth seats, MP3 input, dual climate control and solar control glass. An upgrade option that is comparably priced to the Limited Cadenza will gain the V8 engine, leather interior, SiriusXM traffic and travel link, Garmin Navigation, 20 inch wheels and performance tires.


Conclusion

Either the Kia or the Dodge would be an excellent choice in luxury sedans. The Kia has a slight edge on performance among the V6 models. If the jump in costs to operate the V8 is not prohibitive, the only option is the Dodge. The Kia has some great standard features for safety that require an upgrade and the attendant costs, in the Charger. Across the board, these are very comparable cars. On paper.


Kia offers a wealth of features at a great value but lacks the Charger's deep history as an American muscle car. If that pedigree is appealing, it will be hard to overlook the Charger in this comparison. However, American muscle and refined luxury are rarely found in the same car. Thus, considering that Kia has created the Cadenza as a luxurious sedan with the added benefit of superior performance, it should come as no surprise that the Cadenza will be hard to beat in both style and on the road.


Beck & Masten Kia in Houston, TX is your full-service Kia dealership, providing new and used Kia cars, trucks, and SUVs. Our factory-trained service technicians will keep your vehicle running at peak performance. If you are searching for Kia dealers using the keywords Houston Kia or Houston area Kia dealers, visit our Beck & Masten Kia dealership today!