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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  2005 Amanti - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Shadow - May 9 - 3:16 pm

  Got the car a week ago, have noticed that as it gets colder the ride gets stiffer. I did not like the plastic gas filler cover on a car at this price. Car handles well even with summer tires on icy roads. the ESP and ABS systems keep the car on track when accelerating or breaking, as I passed numerous vehicles in the ditch on their sides. Quality of fuel makes a considerable difference in fuel mileage.

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  Pure Luxury - 2006 Kia Amanti
  By Flpoodle - May 7 - 12:33 pm

  I have been driving a 2004 Hyundai Sonata GLS and was so impressed with the quality,styling and performance, I decided to buy the bigger luxury Kia Amanti. The Amanti is only 6 inches narrower than a Lincoln Town Car. Hyundai owns Kia and the same quality and fabulous warranty is there!

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  Not your typical KIA - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By topgear - May 1 - 2:00 am

  This is a very comfortable, quiet riding car. Once you sit in it and drive it, your are pampered and feel like you are sitting in a much more expensive automobile. At first, the styling might be considered unusual, but after awhile it comes across as a fine looking car in its own rite. It has plenty of power, but has a little pause before she really takes off. When I leave at the traffic light, I feel that others are left behind. Mileage could be better, though. (Maybe I should slow down a little!).

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  This car is amazing - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By bken - May 1 - 2:00 am

  This car is pure luxury. Its quiet, smooth, and handles great. It has everything anyone could want. With dual climate controls, everyone can be comfortable! The Infinity sound system is great! This a beautiful car, with a great warranty.

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  Best Car Ever Made - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By Lady - April 28 - 11:16 pm

  Ive had Cadillacs, Mercedes, Continentals, Corvettes and this is the most comfortable car around. Hope they put a GPS in the new models. Love the CD and radio/apeakers. Feel safe with all the air bags. All I can say is "try it youll like it!"

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  My Amanti - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Karolyn - April 17 - 2:10 pm

  We went on a 6 week trip this year and had the 30,000. check up before we left. We put over 3,000 miles while we were gone and the car performed outstanding. We reached 34.1 mpg on the highway and thought it was a mistake but after calculating the miles it was correct. The Nitrol that was put in the tires may have been a factor. I have a friend that wants my car but I wont sell to her. My free oil changes and service I receive from Bill Bryan Kia will have me in my car for a little longer.

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  VERY PLEASED WITH PURCHASE - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Steve - April 13 - 12:16 am

  Very happy with my purchase. This car is everything that they say. It doesnt take corners real fast. I didnt like the stock wheels that came with it. Only real dislike - they forgot to put a directional mirror in it. This car looks designed by Mercedes and Jaguar but is the best value. I would highly recommend it.

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  Drive update - 2007 Kia Amanti
  By minus200 - April 12 - 7:40 pm

  I have 6900 miles now and this is an impressive car. It drives great, performs terrific and overall is a VERY nice car. The quality is amazing and people always comment and ask about the car (even more than my 2006 Chrysler 300). I took a long trip in this car and was never more pleased with a car. Mine is midnight gray with every option except the cargo mat. The quality of materials and construction is far superior to what you would expect in a Kia and rivals cars at ANY price. The mileage has been slightly better than expected. If you want a true luxury car at a moderate price - this is a great choice.

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  06 Kia Amanti - Its amazing.... - 2006 Kia Amanti
  By new car guy - April 5 - 7:43 am

  Some of the features of the trip computer are useless such as the elapsed driving time. Having a fluid systems status check would be more useful and why didnt Kia think to integrate a compass into the trip computer; that would have been useful too!

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  Bought It Used - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By Bob - March 16 - 10:56 pm

  I recently purchased a used Amanti from a local dealership. This is my second KIA. I also own a Sedona. I was so pleased with my Sedona and the KIA craftsmanship that I will only look at KIA from now on. We paid $17,000 for a fully loaded sedan with power sunroof and leather. The car was a lease vehicle and had been well maintained. You can probably pick a used one up in the $16,000 range without the sunroof. I cant believe that people are not scarfing these up as fast as KIA can put them out. Best value. Most beautiful styling and amenities available for the price on the market today. Buy one now before everybody discovers Amanti.