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:

• 

  Unbelievable value - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By milwaukee_driver - January 18 - 5:43 am

  After researching, it seemed to be too good a value to be true. After purchasing, I cant believe that there arent more on the road. All of the amenities of a Lexus (except for the underpowered engine) at a fraction of the cost. Great ride - quiet and smooth on the highway. Controls are extensive and easily accessible. Very satisfied and Id be inclined to purchase another, especially if the engine gets upgraded (more power and/or better mileage).

• 

  Best Ride in Its Class - 2006 Kia Amanti
  By jacksonville12 - January 15 - 5:56 pm

  My fiance and I test drove a LOT of cars before test driving an 2006 Amanti on a whim. We immediately fell in love with the classic styling, the beautiful interior, and all the options. Then when we drove it we knew this was the car we were going to buy. It had BY FAR the smoothest ride and reminds us of a jaguar/bentley. This car is perfect for cruising the interstate and for comfort. It is not a sports car for those who want to drive curvy roads at 80 mph.

• 

  Your gonna love this car! - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Tammi Shaw - January 9 - 1:06 am

  This Car is a all around winner, And you"ll just Love to drive it!!

• 

  Great Used Car - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By WHS - January 5 - 8:30 pm

  I bought my 05 Kia Amanti used from a Toyota dealer. It has been the best used car Ive purchased yet. My wife loves it! It has been on two long trips and the gas mileage is great (26 mpg).This has been with three people and two large suitcases in the trunk.

• 

  Impressed - 2007 Kia Amanti
  By MHall - December 27 - 7:26 am

  Have driven Caddys, Lincolns, Olds and number of other family style autos. The Amanti beats them hands down, the car drives and rides very smooth, no road or wind noise. Have had zero problems at 38k miles. The car is loaded with every option and performs great.I get compliments all the time, the rear end looks like a Lincoln and the front between a Benz and a Jag. Avg 19.5 MPG mixed HWY & CITY. Would recommend car to anyone who is looking for a solid built, smooth riding automobile with ALL the safety feature.

• 

  Our Amanti - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Betty Campbell - November 25 - 5:30 am

  Although we have only had our Kia Amanti a few months, we love it and are very happy we bought it. The steering is so "light" and easy ... so simple to drive. Feels like a "luxury" car to me, but very affordable. The trunk is huge; very important to me. The interior is roomy, back seat comfy, and very attractive interior. Other reviews say its slow on take off -- well, I find I must watch my take offs as it seems to really GO! Very easy to glide along on the highway and loose track of your speed. We think its a beautiful car and so far, no regrets.

• 

  Buying the unknown - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By Ron Martin - November 22 - 10:00 am

  I like the Amanti’s quirky exterior style, it is different. The transmission shifts effortlessly. The leather seats are soft and comfortable and the seat warmers provide fast and uniform heat to the bottom and backs of the seats. The standard 17" alloy wheels look stylish. The interior is very spacious with ample head and legroom. The interior is elegant with pseudo wood grain accents throughout the entire passenger compartment. The car engine warms up quickly and is ready to provide heat, via independent dual and rear climate controls. Really, the only down is the low mileage.

• 

  Look out Cadillac and Toyoto - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By Bob - November 7 - 9:36 am

  Purchased in December of 2004 off showroom floor. Liked the body style, amenities and overall comfort. First problem was with brake rotors. Second problem was with tires. Rapid wear and could not find anyone in my area to adjust because they could not get tires from the mfg. Good gas mileage on hwy, have gotten over 30 mpg. Traded Toyoto Camry that we didnt like. Amanti is better than my Cadillac Fleetwood Bro. Better mileage than Cadillac and about the same as Toyoto. Wife really likes this one. Will probably buy another.

• 

  Kia Amanti a Great Car - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Walter - October 15 - 7:33 pm

  We had purchased a 2003 Kia van, enjoyed it and watched the reviews on the coming Amanti. We drove it, liked it and bought it. We have enjoyed the car. People stop use on a regular basis to ask what it is. It handles very well. No mechanical problems. The ride is great both in front and rear seats. It has nice features, phone plug ins in back and front. Heated seats, temperature control for passengers. Great car!

• 

  Luxury for less - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By lailani - September 30 - 8:53 pm

  I traded in my Mazda Miata convertible for something more safe at the urging of my over- protective mother and sister. I drive almost constantly, so it was a good idea after all. I bought the Amanti with 13,000 miles on it almost 3 1/2 years ago and it now has 106,000 miles. I have only had to perform regular maintenance on the car. It has taken me all over the western states in super comfort and I proved the safety of the car in a minor accident. Someone crashed into me while I was at a stoplight and I kind of cocked my head to the side and said... did someone just hit me? It felt like a minor bump to me, but ended up crunching the other car pretty well.