2017 Kia Cadenza is cushier and more competent the second time around

A more tech-rich and refined second-generation Kia Cadenza goes on sale at the end of October.

The new car moves onto an enlarged version of the Optima platform built from 51 percent high-strength steel, which is more than double the amount found in the outgoing car.

To further improve rigidity, the new Cadenza's chassis uses six-and-a-half-times more structural adhesives, and triple the amount of hot-stamped steel parts.

To quiet the interior, the new Cadenza gets a laminated windshield and front windows, plus added sound insulation and full underbody covers.

With 107.8 cubic-feet of interior space, Kia says the new Cadenza features more interior space than key competitors like the Toyota Avalon, Ford Taurus and Chevrolet Impala.

A revised 3.3-liter V6 powers the new Cadenza with 290 horsepower and 253 pound-feet of torque. Also new is an automatic transmission with eight speeds, two more than before.

The new drivetrain receives an EPA fuel economy rating of 20 mpg city and 28 mpg highway.

Kia's UVO infotainment system comes standard on all Cadenza models, and it's both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capable.

Available safety technology features include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-change assist, rear parking assist, forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking and lane-departure warning.

A rocking 12-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system is standard on the range-topping SX Limited.

While exact pricing isn't available yet, Kia says the 2017 Cadenza will start below $32,000.