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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  Excellent luxury Kia - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By msho - August 7 - 10:00 am

  I spent a week driving it as a rental, in which time it has completely rebuilt my image of Kia. The build quality was far above what I expected and I got numerous looks while driving the car. I disregarded the break in period; the car had 50 miles on it; as a result sometimes the engine smelt like it was burning - not good.

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  Rescending My Original Review - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By Chris G - July 10 - 6:43 pm

  After a month or two of ownership I wrote a favorable review of this car. However, 30,000 miles and 2 years later I have determined that this car is JUNK, JUNK, JUNK!!!! Lets run it down: Front-end suspension problems that the dealer(s) could never resolve. Car would periodically shut off while driving down the road, again, no dealer resolve. After 30,000 miles the car had problems starting. Very fragile, insecure handling. Horrible MPG - Resale, Resale, Resale

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  more you drive it the more you like it - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By gpf - July 8 - 5:46 am

  Very good power, holds well in sharp curves with ESP option. Exceptional ride and build quality. Extremely quiet at all speeds. Good ergonomics and loads of space. Gas mileage is mediocre. Fit and finish is top drawer. Styling is not offensive but a little stodgy. I would buy it again. Lots of bang for the buck.

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  great car for the price - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By Anne W B - June 19 - 10:00 am

  I traded in a 99 Caddy Catera. Wont go back to the Caddy, because this car gives me luxury without the high price. I love the look and feel of it. The dual climate control is wonderful. The outside looks like a very expensive car, and the leather seats are so comfy and roomy. This car is going to hurt the competition, because of the price and features it has. I love this car.

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  Awesome Ride!! - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By bws09231956 - June 19 - 10:00 am

  awesome ride fellas, the best fit I have ever found for a tall man, and, leg room behind me too!!!

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  Please come home. - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By dario jr - June 14 - 10:00 am

  When I bought this car I didnt come home for 3 days and my wife gave me hell. I gave her the keys and she was gone for 4 days but I understood. WE LOVE THIS AMANTI!

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  great auto - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By ken richardson - June 14 - 10:00 am

  my first car not of american manufacture. I am very pleasantly surprised by the quality of this auto. I also have received many compliments about the design. My last auto was a Lincoln Continental and this auto is every bit as nice and comfortable as the Lincoln. I would not hesitate to buy another Kia.

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  Kia - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By diphy - June 7 - 10:40 pm

  Only problems have been with the tires -- everything else has been fine. The interior is roomy, and the car drives like a dream.

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  Hating my gas Milage - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By dynomite - June 3 - 1:56 pm

  Overall I love my new 2004 Amanti. I love everything about it. All but my gas mileage that is. I am continually going down in gas mileage. All the way from 19.4 when I bought it (33 Miles) down to 15.2 (2200 Miles). My dealer states it will get better but gets worse every day that I drive it. Would have purchased an SUV for this mileage I am getting.

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  Luxury at a not-so-luxury-price - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Bill - May 21 - 7:30 pm

  I switched from an Infiniti to a Lexus. This is without a doubt a quieter and smoother ride. Time will tell about its reliability, since it is a new model, but I feel comfortable with the warranty that comes with it. I got mine loaded, even with ESP, and feel very safe in it.