It’s never been easier to customize your driving experience than with the new Kia Cadenza. The 2017 model offers unparalleled driving technology with distinct modes. Just below the shifter, you’ll find the Drive Mode button, which allows you to switch between four options: Comfort, Eco, Sport, and Smart. Here’s your guide to using each mode to its full potential.
Comfort Mode
Comfort Mode is all about making your trip from point A to point B feel seamless. It minimizes the jostling that often complements shifting, even in an automatic transmission. Flip the drive mode to Comfort and you’ll experience smoother acceleration on straight roads and through turns. You’ll also feel virtually no change in movement when the transmission shifts up or down. Comfort Mode is ideal for transporting precious cargo, such as napping children after a long day of fun.
Eco Mode
As its name suggests, Eco Mode is all about maximizing the efficiency of your fuel supply. It works by adjusting the parameters between the Cadenza’s transaxle and engine operation while also maximizing the energy resources given to other functions of the vehicle, like the air conditioner and shifting patterns. In exchange for a slightly lower power output under the hood, you’ll notice a significant increase in your gas mileage.
Sport Mode
If you prefer to feel more connected to and in control of your vehicle, opt for Sport Mode. When you switch over to this feature, you’ll notice several changes. First, the throttle becomes more responsive. Sensitive to every slight change in pressure, the throttle is a perfect conduit between you and the engine. Next, you’ll notice that the steering becomes more firm and deliberate. In Sport Mode, you’ll feel like your hands are guiding your tires with precision. While the steering is sensitive, it’s also more controlled and offers better handling.
Overall, Sport Mode makes every function of your engine more sensitive and puts you in touch with the road on a whole new level. Every action translates into a more intimate driving experience.
Smart Mode
Every driver has a unique style. That’s why Kia has equipped each 2017 Cadenza with the Smart driving mode. With this feature, the Cadenza’s internal computer begins learning your driving habits. From the way you use the throttle to the shift response you need given the road conditions, speed, and turning behaviors, Smart Mode records and analyzes your driving patterns.
If you’re an eager driver who enjoys the feel of a manual transmission with the ease of the automatic, Smart Mode will give you quicker response times when you engage the throttle. If you prefer a smoother ride, it will learn your preferences and adapt accordingly.
The 2017 Kia Cadenza may be configured to factory settings when you drive it off the lot. But flip through these four specialized driving modes and the Cadenza quickly becomes optimized to your unique style. The more you drive, the more you and the Cadenza get to know each other, melding into the perfect driving team. Enjoy!
Photo by Kia
Warranties include 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and 5-year/60,000-mile basic. All warranties and roadside assistance are limited. See retailer for warranty details.