Overview & Reviews

Eleanor Rigby and Father McKenzie were some lonely people forgotten by the world and if around today, they'd probably drive a Kia Amanti. This largely anonymous large sedan from Korea was frequently overlooked by folks who otherwise ended up buying something like a Buick LaCrosse, Chrysler 300 or Toyota Avalon. As far as we know, even Sir Paul McCartney hasn't noticed it.

The Amanti's rarity resulted from its awkward styling, flaccid performance and Kia's below-average name recognition when it comes to higher-end cars. Kia did address some of the Amanti's more immediate shortcomings in the second-generation model, but in general most used-car shoppers should probably check out more established large sedans before settling on an Amanti.

Most Recent Kia Amanti
The second-generation Kia Amanti was produced from 2007-'09. Although the exterior looked remarkably similar to the previous car's, it cloaked a complete redesign. A modified chassis yielded significant weight loss and improved handling, while most notably, the company dropped the original 200-horsepower V6 in favor of a new 3.8-liter, 264-hp V6.

This Amanti was available in one trim level. A two-tone interior color scheme along with subdued wood and metallic accents and comfy seats should please those looking for a low-priced luxury car. Standard equipment was comprehensive. When optioned out, the Amanti featured such niceties as leather upholstery, heated power front seats with memory, power-adjustable pedals and a nine-speaker stereo with six-CD changer. Some higher-end features, however, like a navigation system, weren't available.

The standard 3.8-liter V6 provided 264 hp and 260 pound-feet of torque. Power was sent to the front wheels through a five-speed automatic transmission with manual shift control. Antilock brakes and a full array of airbags were standard; traction and stability control were optional. Shoppers would be wise to make sure a specific Amanti they may be interested in features these electronic aids.

We were always impressed with the Kia Amanti's equipment levels, ample space and low price. However, its handling was not particularly impressive, with the car's suspension sometimes getting uncomfortably upset when driven quickly over bumps. Overall, the Amanti's road manners were acceptable, but more discerning full-size-sedan buyers will prefer the added capability and refinement of the Kia's competitors. Although styling is a subjective quality, the car's lack of cohesive design and odd, sewer-grate grille didn't do it any favors either.

Past Kia Amanti Models
The original Kia Amanti ran from 2004-'06. It featured a 3.5-liter V6 good for only 195 hp, upgraded to 200 hp the following year. Compared to the newer Amanti, this generation was heavier and featured a more flaccid structure. Handling was even worse and its suspension was less sophisticated. Several features were added as its life went on, including an optional leather package in 2005. Judging by our lukewarm reaction to the current car, it should be no surprise that we think less highly of the original.

User Reviews:

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  KIA HAS WHAT YOU WANT FOR LESS $$ - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Fac9502 - September 25 - 8:26 am

  If you are looking for a great car at a great price the KIA Amanti might fit your criteria. For about what you can spend on a base bottom of the line Jaguar X-Type you can get a fully loaded Kia Amanti with sunroof,vehicle stability program ,traction control, leather, heated seats, an Infinity sound system, dual climate control, rear A/C, heated seats, eight standard airbags, five years of roadside assistance, and a lot more that I cant fit on this review. If you are looking for a luxury sedan that is not going to break the bank and you are looking to keep it for a long or a little while this is the car for you or should I say it is definitely worth more than just a look - you need to drive it.

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  Cadillac Luxury - Kia Price - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By chrprkns - September 23 - 10:00 am

  I bought a cobalt blue Amanti with every available option. It is a gorgeous, classy car and I have all the toys that would have cost twice as much in any other luxury vehicle. I marvel at how Kia did this for the price I paid. I shopped a long time and drove a lot of vehicles before I picked the Amanti, and it is without doubt the best value for dollar on the market today. It drives like a dream and the payments dont cause nightmares.

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  KIA Amanti "GOOD CAR" - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By BOB M - September 13 - 5:40 am

  The KIA Amanti is a well built car. The ride is very smooth and quite. Handling and visibility is excellent. Interior is roomy and comfortable. Sound system is superior (Infinity} with cassette and 6 cd changer. It is equipped with many options found in cars costing much more. Started out to buy a Chrysler 300 and test drove the KIA Amanti and was very impressed with it.

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  The Amanti turn heads - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By djoyceh - September 7 - 10:33 pm

  The Amanti is a fun car to drive. It has all the quality and features of sedans costing thousands more. We have had people approach us in parking lots with compliments. It will turn heads as we drive by. Its great! You cant beat the 10 years or 100,000 mile warranty either.

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  2007 Amanti Best Luxury bargain in US - 2007 Kia Amanti
  By MikeWellsEsq - September 6 - 4:03 pm

  I purchased a pewter beige Amanti with leather package (tan interior), ESC/safety package, 17 in. wheels and sunroof. After seeing an article online about the Amantis redesign for 2007, test driving one was a relevation. I seriously shopped the Amanti vs. the Azera and a couple of other nice sedans, and the Amanti won. This car is an amazing value. I am continually being blown away by the quality and features. The quick power and smoothness of the ride are truly a delight. Id say this car, for 2007, is the biggest hidden secret on the U.S. market, since Kia is not doing any advertising that I can see.

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  Get it with all the Options - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By Idfend - August 6 - 10:00 am

  Cant understand why there arent more on the road. Price to Value cant be beat. Youll be glad you added all of the options without a significant price increase and get all the comforts of a luxury touring sedan. Spacious seating and trunk space. Dont take sharp curves at 90 mph; a little too much sway. Smooth,quiet ride. Grandpa says its the only car hes been in where he doesnt get a hum in his hearing aid.Dont pay sticker; shop it around. I got my loaded, black and black leather. With the current rebate youre looking at around $24,000. How can you beat that.

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  I never thought I would buy a Kia - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Robert - August 3 - 8:06 am

  i recently found myself in the position of needing a new car. I shopped Chevy, Ford, Toyota, Nissan and ended up at a Kia dealership on a lark. Once I rode in it... It was over. The ride, the amenities and the look had me at hello. I had been driving in a friends Lexus and the experience was virtually the same for less than half the price. I want home, did my "due diligence" and found an overwhelming abundance of positive reviews and experiences regarding the Amanti. In the "bang for the buck" category, the Amanti is the winner, Hands down.

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  Greatest Find of this and last century - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Morko Berbeteoux - July 23 - 3:25 pm

  This is a great and special car. Glad to meet a quintessential sales associate with discerning abilities that conducted himself in a professional manner and wore fine Italian shiny suits.

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  My new Amanti - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By First-time Kia owner - July 11 - 2:00 am

  I wasnt immidiately considering the Amanti as my next car at first. But then I looked inside the car, and decided right there. The Amantis interior would look right at home in any luxury sedan, and here it was in a $25,000 KIA! Even though the rest of the car wasnt quite as impressive the ride was comfortable, but acceleration and handling were somewhat disappointing) but the interior made me go for it. I have owned the car for about a month now, and have about 1,000 miles on it, and nothing has gone wrong yet. And if it does, KIA will pay for it, so Im not worried.

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  AWASOM!!!! - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By opirus - July 11 - 2:00 am

  I purchased it a week ago...it is beautiful car...i have no doubt about its quality...the interior is soooo nice...it is compotable!!! it is like a one of luxuary car...I love the price...it is worth like Toyota Avalon...but its price is several thousand less than Avalon...