23 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards, but that’s what you get with the 2020 Kia Cadenza 3.3L V6, a car engineered for smooth, quiet cruising rather than high fuel efficiency. This isn’t a vehicle for hypermilers or those obsessed with squeezing every last bit of fuel from a gallon of gas. The Cadenza is for buyers seeking a comfortable, well-equipped sedan at a price that is lower than many luxury brands. Fuel economy matters, of course, but it’s balanced against the qualities that make this Kia appealing.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2020 Kia Cadenza at 20 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go traffic, where the Cadenza’s 3.3L V6, while refined, uses more fuel. The highway number is better. With its eight-speed automatic transmission, the Cadenza cruises comfortably, the engine running at lower RPMs, increasing fuel efficiency on long drives. Drivers who often take highway trips will see better overall MPG than those primarily in urban areas.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Kia Cadenza at $1,900. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using a fuel price that reflects the national average. This is, of course, an estimate. Actual fuel costs will vary depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of driving (city vs. highway). Someone who drives aggressively, accelerates hard, or spends a lot of time in heavy traffic will likely spend more than $1,900. A driver who accelerates smoothly, watches traffic, and drives mostly on the highway could potentially spend less.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized estimate, but real-world fuel economy for the 2020 Cadenza will vary. Expect the numbers to fall within a reasonable range of the EPA estimates. Energetic driving may lower the combined MPG to the high teens, while careful highway cruising could see figures above 30 MPG. Several factors affect MPG beyond driving style. Tire pressure, vehicle maintenance (particularly air filter condition), and even weather conditions can play a role.

How it compares

In the large sedan segment, the 2020 Kia Cadenza’s fuel economy is about average. Its cousin, the Hyundai Azera (which shares a similar powertrain), gets similar MPG numbers. The Toyota Avalon, another popular choice, gets a slightly better 26 MPG combined in its V6 version. The Nissan Maxima, with its 3.5L V6, also gets around 24 MPG combined. This comparison is important because Cadenza buyers often consider these models, evaluating styling, features, and price against fuel economy. Electrified versions of competitors like the Avalon Hybrid get significantly higher MPG figures, but cost more and appeal to different buyers.

Tips to maximize efficiency

One way to improve fuel economy in the 2020 Cadenza is to drive more smoothly. Avoid hard acceleration and braking. Watch traffic and keep a consistent speed when you can. The Cadenza’s eight-speed automatic is designed to increase efficiency, so let it do its job by not asking for quick bursts of power.

Make sure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires raise rolling resistance, which makes the engine work harder and burn more fuel. Regularly check the recommended tire pressure (on the driver’s side door jamb), and inflate your tires as needed.

Consider using the Cadenza’s “ECO” drive mode, if it has it. This mode changes settings, like throttle response and transmission shift points, to burn less gas. It may reduce the car’s responsiveness a bit, but it can improve MPG, especially in city driving.

Proper vehicle maintenance is also important. A clean air filter allows optimal airflow to the engine, helping efficient combustion. Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule for oil changes and other services. Poorly maintained engines are less efficient and use more fuel.

Reduce extra weight in the vehicle. Carrying extra cargo, especially heavy items, can hurt fuel economy. Remove unnecessary items from the trunk and back seat to lighten the load and improve MPG. See all Kia fuel economy data and also see CADENZA MPG across all years.