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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  Much More than You Think - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By HMeyer - November 20 - 5:10 am

  I disagree with those who test drove this car. I drove from Seattle to Green Bay doing 600 miles a day in November and the car virtually hummed. The drive was the most exceptional drive I have made in a car and I was never more comfortable. In other cars, I would be adjusting the seat several times during the daily drive. I never touched the seat controls on the Amanti. I take issue with consumers being told to look at the Buick, or the Toyota. Why? This car has exceptional performance. I had no stability problems and I was driving thru some windy mountain passes. I have been in the snow now for a month. The car has been in subzero temperatures and it hums along every day. Great Buy!

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  Amanti Lover - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Amanti Lover - November 7 - 9:56 pm

  This is a fabulous car. Its a real eye-catcher. When I first began to drive it, I felt like I was floating. Ive only had one problem and that was with the right strut collar. Kia has the part on order and said this was a problem with most Amantis. Its been over a month and the part still hasnt come in. Gas mileage is not good. Great vehicle with excellent warranty.

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  my amanti - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By germanrose15 - November 1 - 2:00 am

  I love this car. It is very luxurious and classy. Driving is very fun.

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  Lousy ride & quality - 2008 Kia Amanti
  By herb45 - October 23 - 12:53 am

  I totally love this car on a trip, but take it in the city, and the ride is harsh & lumpy, to say the least. The dash rattles are everywhere at this point, so I just turn up the stereo. The hwy mileage is very good. The brakes are terrible, and the transmission lurches when cold !

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  Love this automobile:) - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By Captain Ron276 - October 21 - 10:00 am

  By far the best car I have purchased in my 58 years on this earth

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  BUY IT BEFORE PRICE INCREASE - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By CAMAZ GRACE - October 21 - 10:00 am

  THIS CAR DRIVES LIKE A MUCH HIGHER PRICED LUXURY CAR. IN MY BUSINESS I GET A CHANCE TO RIDE AND DRIVE HIGH END PRICED CARS,THIS CAR IS TRULY UNDERATED.AS SOON A THE PUBLIC DISCOVERS THIS CAR THE PRICE WILL ADJUST ACCORDINGLY.BEST BUY I HAVE SEEN IN A LONG TIME.

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  Looking Good - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By gia - October 19 - 10:26 am

  Ive had this car since Sept. and so far it is fantastic - a beautiful car inside and out! The only thing that I dont like is the city mileage but for a car this size its not bad. My all around mileage is approximately 22.5 mpg and it is comprised of approximately 50% city and 50% highway driving.

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  This car rocks! - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By Chuck davis - October 12 - 2:06 am

  This is the most comfortable riding car Ive ever owned. Its extremely quiet, has every possible convenience feature, is easy to see out of, has a tight turning circle, has excellent workmanship and comes in at an amazingly good price. I dont see any reason to spend more for a Camry or the same for an Jetta both of which have fewer features and less comfort and a very dated look. The Amanti is Japans wake up call. Theres a new kid on the block.

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  Style & Value - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By lee - October 7 - 1:13 pm

  Everyone agrees: great style, more head room/leg room, auto seat memory, side mirrors may be set to rotate down, quiet door closure, easy trunk opening devices and hidden key locking entry to trunk, smooth ride, seat heaters, great sound system, dual temperature settings.

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  Its been a year now since my purchase - 2007 Kia Amanti
  By Jim - July 3 - 6:23 pm

  Its been a year now since my purchase and Im still a fan of the Amanti. Love the vehicle and its reliability. Im getting low mileage around the city but 80% of my driving is just that. City 15.8 MPG .. but on the highway I get a strong 34 MPG. I traded my lincoln continental in for this vehicle and was nervous about my choice. I went with the Amanti for value and warranty. Im glad I did. Ive not regretted my decision yet - in fact wonder how I got so smart. This car is just flat out fun to drive and has everything in it an on it I ever had with my lincolns. Especially satisfied with winter driving - electronic stability control is great. Check out the Amanti befor you buy anything.