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 nice car - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By mike j md - March 9 - 10:00 am

  what a beauty!! love this car !!

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  A quality car - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By EVA - March 9 - 10:00 am

  Anyone who still thinks a Kia is not a quality car should reconsider!! My Amanti is most definitely a high quality car. It has everything you could want. Its solid, it drives great, a great warranty.

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  Best vehicle I have ever owned! - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Robin Cofer - February 19 - 10:43 pm

  I have had this car for a year now. My husband and I continually tell everyone that this is by far the best vehicle we have ever owned. I didnt know what is was when I saw someone driving it. Unlike me, I walked up to a total stranger and asked him about the car. He said he traded his Mercedes for this and he was more pleased with the Amanti. My husband is six and a half feet tall and it is important that he has head-room and has enough legroom. Of course, that generally cramps anyone in the seat behind him, but not in the Amanti. We chose this over a Lincoln and a Cadillac. We have advised two other couples to buy this. They thank us when they see us. Our next car will be an Amanti.

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  I dont need a Three blade Star - 2006 Kia Amanti
  By Fred Fleming - February 16 - 6:23 am

  The Amanti is a very comfortable car. I traded a 1999 Lincoln Town Car with a lot of interior room for the Amanti and I find it has as much interior room as the Town Car. The controls are well placed and I especially like the adjustable REAR seats for my passengers. I have the option that allows the windows to darken in the sunlight. OK, I personally dont like the rear view mirrors tilting down when I put it in Reverse. But, my wife does, so to keep her happy, I can always move the mirrors up with the controls then hit the seat memory button when I go back to forward gears and they come back in place. What I go through to keep the wife happy. She likes the car as well as I do.

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  Classy Chassis - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Linda Overman - February 16 - 4:36 am

  Its a shame that American car manufacturers just dont get the idea of quality and comfort. Hats off to Kia for the Amanti--what a beautiful car. Plenty of power, lap of luxury and a pretty cool style! I have driven many American luxury cars- Caddy,Regis,Buick Ford-- but this one is the nicest. Smooth--silent---stable. Everything that a true luxury car should be---without the price gouging.

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  Love My Amanti - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By Herman de Vries - February 7 - 12:43 pm

  The Amanti was my choice after test driving Cadillac, Mercedes, Buick and a few others. Hands down, it was the winner for quality vs. price. After buying the car, my brother spent an afternoon in the car with me. He owns a new Park Avenue and his comments were, "It rides better, it runs and rides quieter and is more comfortable than my Buick. I wish Id bought one of these." The only disappointment is the city mileage. On the road Ive gotten 30 miles on the Imperial gallon, but in the city in winter, its murder. A pleasure to drive, the one word that describes this car is "smooth, smooth, smooth."

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  awesome - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By skyhawk - February 5 - 2:00 am

  unbelievable value, 8 air bags, large interior, cant be beat

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  Solid, great warranty - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Sidney Prefer - January 31 - 4:13 pm

  The car rides very good, comfortable and quiet. It has enough power for me. The only drawback is mileage, about 21 overall.

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  Guilty - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By Hopefull - January 31 - 10:00 am

  I like it I wish I could buy american but I didnt We have 4074 miles on it and so far its great Traded a LHS with 13500 on it WE WILL SEE when it has that.

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  Amanti 2004 loaded all options - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By ccornell - January 24 - 10:00 am

  Wonderful car to drive. Some road noise with front wheel drive. Feels like it glides. Excellent breaking (without the breaking option) we live in Georgia no need for Breaking asst.