2010 Kia Cadenza Images And Video Released; Not Coming To Australia

LAST MONTH Kia unveiled the Cadenza, its new entry to the large luxury sedan segment and first revealed as the VG/KND-5 Concept earlier this year.

This week, the Korean carmaker has released a series of new promotional images along with a video of the Cadenza in action.

To be sold internationally as the Cadenza and in Korea as the K7, Kia Australia's Jonathan Fletcher told TMR that the left-hand-drive-only layout of Kia's new large sedan means it is unlikely to appear in Australia.

"Cadenza is not destined for right-hand-drive production at present," Mr Fletcher said.

The Cadenza joins a growing list of Korean models built exclusively for the larger left-hand-drive markets, including the smaller Venga, Hyundai's Genesis sedan and coupe, and the larger Equus luxury sedan.

Powered by Hyundai-Kia’s 3.5 litre ‘Lambda II’ V6 on a front-wheel-drive platform mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, the Cadenza produces around 213kW and 338Nm of torque.

Kia's design boss Peter Schreyer described the Cadenza as a "big step into the future" for the carmaker.

"Our new sedan looks masculine and luxurious. Today, people recognize a Kia at first sight: well balanced proportions, flowing greenhouse and dynamic window graphic plus the big wheels, give this car its confident stance, dignity and elegant personality," Mr Schreyer said.

The distinctive 'tiger nose' front with its signature grille and headlights are evidence of Kia's new self-confidence. Kia Cadenza is a big step into the future - another quantum leap for Kia."

The Cadenza's features list includes a heated steering wheel, powered extendable seat cushions, automatic de-fogging of the windshield and and ventilated front seats.

The 2010 Kia Cadenza is expected to make its 'in the flesh' debut at motor shows in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Dubai later this year.