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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  Very poor gas mileage - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By J. KELLY - June 6 - 7:56 am

  After seven months of driving, 5,900 miles to date, according to the digital display I am "averaging" 12.5 mpg. The published mpg is 17 city / 20 highway. I am using 87 octane fuel and occasionally use mid-grade even though the manual calls for the 87 octane.

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  Affordable Luxury on Wheels - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Charles Miller - May 23 - 2:53 pm

  The Amanti is a head turner. I receive stares and comments quite often, and it gives me the feeling of driving a very expensive luxury sedan.

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  Asian styled interior/ European exterior - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By zhdf - May 9 - 2:00 am

  A beautiful car from an up and coming brand. definatly worth taking a closer look at for someone that likes a quiet, comfortable, and safe automobile. Its basically a nice riding box with the look of mercedes, Bentley, and jaguar slaped with the name KIA!

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  price is right - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By d-byers - May 9 - 2:00 am

  what can i say this car is by far more than i ever expected, i get stopped every day with someone wanting to look inside or commenting on the looks of it,

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  a new love in my life - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By GAUTHIER - May 4 - 10:00 am

  after taking out cars for days just before buying a 300M i said to my husband i really want to take out the kia amanti there was just something about it,so we went to the kia dealer and the moment i sat in this car i was hooked,then i drove it i looked at my husband and as he says i knew this was the car you wanted just by the smile on your face what can i say get in one and judge for yourself i bet you will be the proud owner of a kia amanti too. all i can say is enjoy as i have......

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  Another transmission and front end noise - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By dan - May 2 - 10:03 am

  After another highway trip of 1200 miles the transmission has gone bad again ! The service manager hears the noise and has to get with Kia on it! It needs another one and this will make the third one and the front end creaking and sounds like its falling apart has been fixed twice also, with all new everything in front. They say they can do nothing else for it! It must be a lemon car !Waiting again to see if they will fix it, it only has 27,000 miles on it. Will let everyone know what happens. Im on here earlier and posted problems

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  Dont Let the Nameplate Stop You - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Jeff - May 1 - 8:23 am

  After getting past the nameplate on the car, I am glad that I purchased this vehicle. I have put over 20,000 miles on the car in a little over 8 months. The performance has exceeded all expectations, and I believe now, more than ever, that this vehicle is by far the best value in its class. Kia has hit a home run with the Amanti.

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  Kia Amanti - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By d loeschen - April 21 - 2:00 am

  This is my second Kia. Previously owned a Sedona that I traded in on the Amanti. No regrets at all. The build quality is excellent. Ride and noise levels are superb, the Infiniti sound sytem is wonderful and the leather interior is top notch. With around 6000 miles driven so far the car seems to be performing better and the mileage is improving to an average of 20 mpg in town and 25 on highway. I would highly recomend this vehicle to anyone looking for an affordable luxury car.

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  Youve got to drive it - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By chasborg - April 12 - 10:33 am

  We actually went to the dealer to buy a Chrysler 300. We took the Chrysler for a test drive and saw the Amanti in the showroom and took it for a drive too. The interior of the car was beautiful and gave a feeling of luxury. The leather was beautiful and there was plenty of room both in front and back. Accesss was easy. I couldnt believe the radio. It sounded better than any other auto radio Ive ever heard. We were trading in a Lincoln LS and didnt feel that we were trading down but up. This car had many more features. Its not a race car but it moves pretty quickly. The ride is very comfortable and quiet. To appreciate it, youve got to drive it. It has a great 10 year warranty too.

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  Eye Pleasing Performer - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By b - March 23 - 11:30 am

  I love the look and the feel, but not the gas mileage. It could use a little more horses under the hood just to match its competitors.