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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  GM killer - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By fedsales - November 13 - 2:00 am

  buick build quality without the inflated GM price....will remind you of the buick park aves of old without gouging your wallet..the most comfortable car i have owned in many years..why buy GM anymore?

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  this car gets the job done - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By justjack - October 7 - 2:00 am

  one word - fabulous

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  Great Faux Mercedes - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By ER - October 2 - 4:30 pm

  Bought as rentacar with 12k mi and 1 yr old, we added 100k warranty for about $2k. Drive daily and on road trips with 2 small kids (now at 52k). Very good performance (no warranty repairs, just maintenance) and xlint comfort. Interior construction better than a Benz and just as quiet. Large trunk, durable leather, icy AC. Lots of looks when we take it into Mexico - they dont have these yet - but most people mistake it for a Jag in states.

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  My favorite car - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By Lydia - October 2 - 5:00 am

  The Amanti is by far one of the best cars Ive ever driven. If a car could be an extention of you while driving the Amanti would be it. It responds to every command like its a part of me. Everywhere I go people ask what kind of car it is. It is often mistaken for a Jaguar at nowhere near the price.

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  you have to try this car - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By boo-bud - October 1 - 2:00 am

  great handling sound system is the best ive ever heard highway driving is quite and very comfortable

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  Best buy in todays market! - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By KiaLover - October 1 - 2:00 am

  fun to drive, affordable as a Camry with the amenities of a mid class Mercedes

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  Love my Amanti - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By dkvia - September 1 - 6:04 am

  I purchased my Amanti new in 2004. It now has 169,000 miles on it. It has been a great car. Regular maintance has kept it running perfectly. Putting it in the shop tomorrow for a oil leak & power steering exchange, $600, cheaper than a new car. I WISH Kia was still making this car! Been looking for used Amanti with low mileage to run for another 10 years.

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  Love my Amanti - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Krissy - August 21 - 12:16 pm

  What a great car. We went to the west coast; had a lot of people admire and ask questions. If the gas price would have been a little lower, our trip could have been perfect. We would recommend the Amanti as the perfect car.

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  The Best Surprise - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Stan - August 15 - 9:10 am

  My wife and started looking for cars at the end of 2004. We looked at the Avalon, LeSabre, Marquis and Chrysler 300. The KIA Amanti was in the same showroom as the 300 and we fell in love with the car and the price was the best surprise. We got EVERY extra the car comes with and they added a $3,000 rebate to boot. This is the most incredibly luxurious car for $23,500 that we ever saw. I cant say enough good things about it. Would but another in a heartbeat.

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  the car ive dreamed of driving - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By the57spoons - August 10 - 9:06 am

  Looks good! runs good,and it is ALWAYS turning heads!Many times,different drivers on the highway will accelerate up next to us to see what is it, esp. the "expensive vehicles", BMWs, Mercedes, Jaguires and Yes Lexus All positive comments from workmates and others, who think at first Ive got a new Mercedes or Jag.and wonder how much more am I getting paid on the job to afford it!The real irony of this is that I bought the car for my wife, and Ive found myself driving it every chance I get!