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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  This car sucks - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Kayla - January 4 - 3:22 am

  Ive only had this car for two months and it has broken down 3 times. Once while I was in the middle of diving and the other two times it just wouldnt start. The brakes suck and the side mirrors never stay set. I have to reset them every time I get in the car. Kia dealers are annoying. They told me I needed a new computer which would cost about $4000 so I towed it home and jumped it because they kill r my battery and it ran just fine. All it needed was a coil pack. Please dont buy this car ever.

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  Kia still has a lot of work to do - 2006 Kia Amanti
  By aubbon - November 27 - 2:50 pm

  This 2006 Kia Amanti was a replacement for a 2005 Amanti which had many problems starting with a transmission that was replaced. The dealer replaced the vehicle with the 2006 and from the very first day I experienced the same problems as with the 05 model with the addition of having the engine light come, intermittent lurching and lose of power. The vehicle spent most of February at the dealership at which point I was offered a Mitsubishi in a straight trade, which was declined. I am now in the process of arbitration to have the manufacturer buy back this vehicle as we do not have a lemon law in Canada.

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  Unhappy Owner in New York/Florida - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Sprinterny - March 12 - 7:43 am

  I have been very disappointed. The first week of ownership I needed two tows in Florida. I immediately purchased a new battery when stranded a second time. The seats are rock hard and the seat belt buckle cuts into my hip. Then car had some kind of transmission burning and needed a transmission replacement. I was first towed and paid $300 to recover my car. I have to drive 80 miles to the closest dealer in upstate NY. After waxing the car about 4 times in 2 years the exterior paint job is looking shabby.The car always stalls out.The replaced transmission hesitates for 4 seconds and then jerks. It gets a horrible 11 to 17 mpg. The tires need replacing at 27,000 mile. The brakes need work now

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  3 words RIGHT FRONT STRUT - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By NotLuxury - January 23 - 12:30 am

  The car is beautiful. The right front strut is a disaster. It may look like a luxury car; it may be priced a little under the luxury cars, but the right strut noise makes this purchase my worst nightmare. Dont trust the test drive unless you can keep it for at least two weeks.

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  Stop Making the Amanti, please - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By golfer775 - May 26 - 12:35 am

  Got stuck on vacation in Florida with less than 5,000 mi. and replaced the transmission. New transmission goes "zzzzzz" between first and second gear. Kia, from dealer to national manager, refuses to replace or fix it. Dealer says all Amantis go "zzzzzz." Yeah, right. Engine light goes on repeatedly and have had it reset more than 8 times. Dealer wont replace sensor. Dome light went out after 10,000 mi. Bumper finish is pealing. Now with 60,000. Transmission slips regularly. Stay far away from this lemon model and Kia, in general. Awful customer service. Never again.