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:

• 

  comfort, styling, safety - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By Brie - November 5 - 2:00 am

  My Amanti is such a pleasure to drive. It handles excellently, and is so luxurious. I think also that it is a really safe car. I just love it.

• 

  Amanti - Take II - 2006 Kia Amanti
  By Billh6 - October 27 - 3:26 am

  I enjoyed my 04 Amanti so much that I traded for a pre-owned 06. I still love it.

• 

  My third Kia - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Garry - October 19 - 11:23 am

  We owned two Sedonas and were pleased with the safety styling and value when the Amanti was introduced. We purchased one with the optional electronic stability control. The performance has improved as it was driven. When new it didnt accelerate very well. It is now "hard to hold down!" We have owned a couple of Lincolns and this auto compares very favorably.

• 

  Teds Opinion - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Edward J. Loughney - October 17 - 7:16 am

  My experience with this car has been 4.0. It could have a little additional power. And I cant understand why they didnt install the automatic rear view mirror. It would also be nice to have something similar to the GM program that gives driving instructions on trips.

• 

  First Time Kia Owner - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By D Morris - September 29 - 7:36 am

  I paid top dollar for this little bugger, so I hope it last as long and the warranty says it should. I was looking for a SUV when the salesman pointed me toward the new luxury Amanti. I was a little nervous buying a Kia, but I remember back when Mazda and Honda were junk little cars. I love to be able to drive a luxury car, and it is a nice trade off for a SUV. The gas mileage is not as good as I hoped, but it is better than SUV’s I was looking at and about the same as my Windstar that I traded in.

• 

  Feeling sad - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Hopeful - September 28 - 12:33 pm

  I purchased my car with 913 miles on it. It was primarily driven by the Kia manager where I purchased my vehicle. I have roughly 28,000 miles on my car and I am on my 2nd transmission. The new transmission is unfortunately not any better than the initial one. My 1st tranny was replaced at 22,000. Ive brought it back to the dealership and told them about the new 2nd transmission slipping when starting up. Now with cold weather its even worse and Im actually afraid to drive it any long distances until I get this transmission remedied or get another new transmission. Im very envious of the folks who have had good luck. I really love my Amanti, but its sick at the moment.

• 

  2005 Kia Amanti - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Scott - September 6 - 11:06 pm

  I bought my 2005 Kia Amanti new from a dealer. I love the car and its performance.

• 

  Update - 2007 Kia Amanti
  By Greg from Omaha - August 19 - 7:53 am

  Update six month in. No mechanical issues to date, love it more now than when I purchased. I recently rode in a Lincoln Town Car - the Lincoln was not as quite, not as smooth, and was not as nice as the Kia. If you are looking for a Lexus or Cadillac at firesale prices, this is the one!

• 

  The best we have owned - 2006 Kia Amanti
  By mary - August 13 - 10:46 am

  We love our stylish new car. We have received many compliments on the style. It is very comfortable with a nice zip to it. We are very happy with it.

• 

  AMANTI - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By JON D - August 12 - 2:00 am

  THE KIA AMANTI IS THE LUXURY CAR FOR THE NON RICH. IT HAS ALL THE LUXURY THAT A JAGUAR MERCADIES AND BMWS HAVE FOR A WHOLE LOT CHEAPER. I FOUND OUT THAT IT FULLY LOADED (WICH MINE IS) ONLY COSTS ABOUT 30,000.00 UNLIKE THE JAGUAR OR THE MERCADIES