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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  Happy, But Not PERFECTLY Happy - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By OhManti - October 17 - 2:20 am

  Contrary to some, I dont find the suspension loose or "floaty." The brakes are a bit too grippy for me. The rides wonderfully pleasant, would be dead quiet if the air intake wasnt so loud. Posh enough, but cheap very scratchable finish on the interior glossy bits. Wish it had a compass; Love the computer and gobs of great gadgetry otherwise. Happy with accelleration, at the stoplight and for passing, dont mind the lessor V6. Love the front end, back end cloys, though I think the trunks my favorite feature -- HUGE. CD changer slow loading. horn pathetic. blind spot in front. Saftey top notch. Eight way seats, but havent got comfortable on long trips.

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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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  Economic Luxury - 2006 Kia Amanti
  By Chris - June 18 - 2:56 am

  I have always been impressed with the look of the Kia Amanti since its debut in 2004. Kia has captured the luxury look of Jaguar and Mercedes Benz without the pricing. So far, I continue to be impressed with my own Amanti including the performance and the interior design. The extras on the car are wonderful and the price was also a benefit.

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  Kias in Trouble - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By Greg Gunderson - May 29 - 2:00 am

  I looked at the first one to arrive in Omaha. Looks like very limited numbers will be getting to the dealers this year, expect to pay window or above. Major mistake in my opinion, as I would have purchased if they were pricing like their sister car, the XL350. As it is, more expensive than a similiar Buick or the Hundia XL 350, close to an Avalon in actual exit the door price. A nice car, very roomy, but price and quanity are going to make this a hard one to buy.

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  My Amanti - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By folfer06 - March 28 - 5:36 pm

  Mine is a 2004 year model but on checking is almost identical to the 2005. I have received many compliments ;one of the main ones is the easy access to the rear seats. My wife loves the heated seats and the drivers seat auto memory.

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  Mirror Problems - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Oscar Zuniga - March 9 - 10:00 am

  I own a Kia 2005 Amanti and have always had problems with the side mirrors. The vehicle is equipped with switches that preset the seats and mirrors. Unfortunately, the mirrors do not go back to what you preset. That means that you have to constantly readjust the the mirrors. Im taking the vehicle to the dealer today, but it looks like other Kia Amanti owners have had problems with the mirrors and have just been given the run around by the dealers based on what I am reading on the internet. If you like AM radio, dont get this vehicle. AM reception is terrible.

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  Dont Think I would buy another one - 2008 Kia Amanti
  By Kim - January 13 - 2:46 pm

  The car is alright, but dont think I would spend $30K to buy another one. I have the loaded, leather and all the bells and whistles. Originally when I purchased, I was driving 50K miles a year and wanted some car around me on the highway, now that I only drive 12K - 15K, I dont like the car nearly as well. I will look for another car which is smaller, has all the bells and whistles and gets better than 20 mpg

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  A key from a man - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By Crazylady - October 11 - 10:00 am

  This attractive automobile was a present. It drives smoothly and can handle curves. The seats are comfortable and recline to accomodate everyones needs. This car accomodates single drivers or MOMs with kids. The The stereo system is awesome. The car is very detailed. You must spend hours driving it to experience its full potential. The instruction manual is very long but anyone with basic knowlege can figure it out. Theres lots of extra ammenities that one may never use but its nice to have them if you desire.

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  major transmision problems - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By dan - July 3 - 6:23 pm

  after 3 years and 26000 miles. and dealership service always on time the transmision started whining almost like a grind. i took it to a kia dealer and it needs a new transmision! they had to order a new one and no loaner car all they said is the best they can do is give a courtesy ride home.

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  Amanti 2004 - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Charles Durnil - June 28 - 8:00 am

  Could be a bit more powerful, but is adequate. Fuel economy is less than expected, have seen better on more powerful 6s and 8s. That said, still an excellent value, a good car, that I expect will be great, with a few improvements.