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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  Bettet Than I Believed - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By C Reid - June 29 - 5:20 am

  I thought this would be a short-term use car as I was buying it at end of the year sales. I didnt think I would actually find a car that would really meet my needs for long-term use in the short exploring time I had to review cars available. The KIA Amanti model is quite eye-catching and I receive many compliments and interested looks while out with the car. I was quite surprised at how well it handles, engine performance, speed and brakes. I think it is outstanding compared to a previous Saturn I owned. The Amanti compares with and exceeds many features to a Toyota Camry that I thought was one of my best previously owned cars.

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  Kia in GM Town - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By Med - June 15 - 10:33 pm

  Looked at buying the Cadillac CTS but with a price difference of $15K here in Canada couldnt justify the Caddy especially after trying the KIA. No options available here in Canada, fully loaded and extremely well built. Rides like a dream with terrific sound system. Have told my father-in-law who drives a DeVille and he will switch as the KIA has as much room and as good a ride for $30K less. Havent hesitated telling my friends and co-workers what a wonderful car the Amanti is. Take a look and test drive, you wont be dissapointed!

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  I Own One, I Like It! - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Manny Diez - June 10 - 5:26 am

  This car was designed to impress the passengers more than the pedestrians. While the design will not win any awards, I like it because it has a stately look to it. Tall greenhouse, aggressive front end, impressive stance. Its a pleasure to drive as long as you dont expect to beat the Chrysler 300C next to you at the stop light. I traded a Caddy Seville in on this car. I like the ride and features in the Amanti better.

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  Jaguabenz Car - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By Roger - June 2 - 2:00 am

  I was looking for a unique, stylish car with a great drive and ride. The Amanti accomplomplishes all of this plus much more. Most people initially think it might be a Jaguar with a Mercedes Benz flair. Toss in a little bit of Lincoln Town car and you end up with one fashionable vehicle.

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  Nice car for the money - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By steve schulz - May 5 - 10:40 pm

  I wanted a reasonably priced car with all the comfort features of a luxury sedan. The Amanti, while not the best on fuel economy, is a great driving car with all the bells and whistles. The warranty cant be beat. Resale value is still to be determined but it is a car I think you will keep for many years.

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  Amanti - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By ggage4000 - April 26 - 2:26 pm

  All the comforts and styling of a 60K luxury car for a lot less. Great reliability and warranty. Very easy steering and very smooth ride. The largest import luxury car I have driven.

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  A PLUS FOR KIA AMANTI - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By TOM RODGERS - April 21 - 9:40 pm

  My experience with the Kia Amanti has a a very favorable response. The car has held up to all of my expectations. Sporty to drive, comfortable to ride in. Good acceleration in tight spots, disk brakes gives smooth stopping. Excellent vision with very few blind spots. Heated seats, 6 disk changer, moon roof, separate temperature control, memory seat control all add to the pleasure of owning the Kia Amanti. I have had several favorable comments as to the design (very modern); also the headroom is very adequate.

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  What can I say - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Don - March 18 - 6:36 am

  The car handles like a dream, very, very comfortable. The power plant is more than adequate to get you onto the highway, and with cruise you have no problem keeping in traffic. In fact, I use cruise to keep myself from getting a ticket, because it drives so quietly, you dont realize how quickly you are moving. Ive had minor repairs done to the SRS (airbags), but overall the car has met or exceeded my expectations. Around town I get 20+ mpg and on trips 25+ mpg.

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  First car I loved - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By cswartz - March 10 - 1:53 am

  I had the Amanti 6 years and then had to sell. I loved that car but in the last year we put in over $3,000 for catalytic converter, some kind of band, headlights, testing, electrics and other misc. then got the news our transmission was going and another $2,500. Less than 92K miles & only 7 years old. I wanted to pay for repairs but husband told me to face the fact the car was going to nickle and dime us. I actually miss that car. For the price I originally paid, the luxury and style it provided, it couldnt be beat. This was my first foreign car, and probably the last.

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  my kia - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By kiamine - March 8 - 2:00 am

  very comfortable to ride in , looks good from all angles,very roomy, seats recline all the way back.roomy trunk. just a nice car.