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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  A great ride - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By maddad - January 29 - 11:43 am

  If you are looking for a car that will be mistaken for a Mercedes. a Lincoln, a Jaguar, or a Lexus, this is it.

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  surprisingly good - 2007 Kia Amanti
  By kickboyface - January 18 - 1:43 pm

  rented one of these for a week on a trip to las vegas based solely on the prompting of the counter clerk - "theyre REALLY nice." she was completely right. fun. powerful. fast. loaded with features. i rented a Cadillac a few days later and this car was REMARKABLY better. if i was ever in this type of car market, id buy a used one in a heartbeat (they have terrible residual value and its a spectacular car) -- you could get it for a steal.

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  After Inspection - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By mdfoster1 - December 23 - 4:56 pm

  Okay, I had the Amanti go through a full used car inspection at the Kia dealership. Cost $104.00. Three items needed attention - Left and Right valve cover gaskets need replacing, and the rear main seal needs replacing. Total cost for repairs by the dealership will be $1010.00. Do I still love the car - Yes! The leak must be a very small one because you cannot tell it has a leak by driving it and have not noticed oil leaking. Will I get it fixed - Yes when income taxes come in next year. Can it wait til then - they said it could as long as I keep an eye on the oil level. I paid $5000.00 for the car and NADA shows its value a little over $6000.00 so with the repair it will meet value.

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  Great Value for Good Car - 2006 Kia Amanti
  By Harry - November 1 - 7:30 pm

  I love the looks of the Amanti. Sound system is great and it is very comfortable to drive. Have driven 900 miles in one day and arrived feeling pretty good. Gas mileage OK on highway (around 24 at 70) but sucks gas around town (17). I saw review about chips in paint and have several on my white Amanti. Paint may be fragile but pearl white is gorgeous. Steering is a little numb and throttle could be a little more linear. Ride is comfortable but cheap tires are noisy and stiff. Ride motions need to be better damped without being harsher. Love the way the interior looks. One warranty claim to replace master brake cylinder at 2 days and that is it.

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  2005 Kia Amanti - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Mike - October 30 - 1:10 am

  We gave up a DeVille for the Amanti and it has been a great luxury car. The gas mileage could be a lot better but everything so far, seems to been built very well.

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  Retro Euro-Styling meets American Ride - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By MENTOR - May 22 - 2:00 am

  This is a cool looking car -- kindo f reminding me of a mongrel mix between a Mercedees a Bently and something coming out of (former) Communist East Germany. Sitting in the interior is like time travel to 1961 (at least as far as the dash is concerned). The drive is soft, like a mushy American ca. Trunk space and roomy interior make this a comfortable ride for passengers. Performance is what youd expect for a GM-type of mid-range car from the early 1980s -- you dont want to do any extreme maneuvers.

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  I love it! - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Vikki Wiggins - March 10 - 12:03 am

  I love everything about this car! But, the gas mileage lacks a lot to be desired. You must use premium gas, but the best I have done on a long road trip is 17.2 mpg. I dont believe I will ever see 25 mpg. The strange thing is that it does not seem to matter with this car whether you drive it like a grandma or at high speeds. It gets the same on a long trip either way. I must say that I like the car enough that even with the bad gas mileage, I would still purchase the same car if I had it to do all over again. I spent a long time shopping prior to buying, and for the price, in my opinion, it is the best car on the market. Very high quality.

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  First Impressions of a 2005 Kia Amanti - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By MagMax - March 7 - 2:00 pm

  After a year of research, I took delivery of a pearl white 05 Amanti a week ago. Since then Ive put about 300 miles on the clock. The cars got an amazingly comfortable ride, has a vast and beautifully detailed interior, and has plenty of power for normal circumstances. It has everything from heated rear seats to automatic wipers. Im especially impressed by the silence inside the car, by the comfortable seats, and by how easy it was to get used to driving it. It has excellent visibility, a commanding driving position, a very tight turning circle, and is very easy to get into and out of. For less than a loaded Camry, its an unbeatable bargain with lots more bells and whistles.

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  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).

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  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!