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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  kia - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By Good Buyer - March 26 - 10:00 am

  Kia is attacking the cadilac and lincoln not just the buick and mercury markets. I have driven cadilac and lincolns for 30 years but switched to amanti this year

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  I LOVE MY AMANTI - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By STACEY - March 26 - 10:00 am

  THIS CAR IS EXTREMELY ROOMY EVEN IN THE BACK. THE TRUNK SPACE IS ABUNDANT. THIS CAR IS A MIX BETWEEN A MERCEDES, A LINCOLN TOWN CAR, AND A JAGUAR. BUT I FEEL IT IS MORE ECONOMICAL.

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  I Adore My Amanti - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By I Love My Amanti!! - March 25 - 4:26 pm

  I love my Amanti -- Ive named mine Sterling and it is a fantastic car. It gets a lot of looks on the road as it is still a newer model that a lot of people have not seen. Ive been stopped at red lights and in parking lots by people who want to see the car and know what it is. People seem to adore it. As I do. The car is solid, rides very nicely and is full of creature comforts. I bought mine fully loaded.

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  Looks Great Ride Tune Out Road Noise - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By A. NEWMAN - March 21 - 10:00 am

  Great fuel economy and comfort level. Rattle in front end cant be located after numerous attempts. One of the best cars Ive ever driven. Would recommend to anyone wanting luxury on a budget

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  2004 Kia Amanti by Bob Gum - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By bgum - March 21 - 10:00 am

  I bought my Amanti in May 2004. I am very satisfied with everything except the noise generated underneath the car on city streets. It could be sound insulated better to aleveate this noise distraction. It is very distracting. However, on the highway, it is very quite. In fact it is one of the quietest cars Ive ever driven on good roads. The wind noise is almost non-existance. The fit & finish is excellent. The gas mileage is a decent 25.5 MPG on the highway. The seats, both front & rear are very comfortable. It could use a little more horsepower but I highly recommend this vehicle. It is an excellent value for your dollar.

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  Luv Amanti - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By G4Ink - March 20 - 4:46 pm

  Yes it is slow but it is very quiet and comfortable. High quality amenities. Kia based its design on the top luxury cars. It uses the same key entry and power windows as the BMW. The sound system is superb. The trunk and engine compartment are beautiful. I get 22 MPG consistently.

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  Affordable luxury and Elegance - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Bill - March 12 - 12:50 pm

  No problems, smooooth ride, heads turn, people ask what it is. Cant believe that KIA has a car like this. Cant believe that I am saying this - KIA has a customer for life. Too bad domestics cant have this quality for this price.

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  Best Car Ive Ever Owned - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Belinda Davis - March 10 - 2:46 pm

  I bought a white pearl in 2005 and my husband did not care for the color so we were out riding one day and we stopped by the car lot and decided to trade it in for a black one. These cars are so sharp looking, no matter what color they are. I feel like Im riding in a Cadillac but I did not have to pay the price for one! I love my car and my next car will be an Amanti and it will be my third Amanti that I have owned. Just ask me and Ill tell you like I tell everyone else "best car Ive ever owned".

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  My new Kia - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By kia guy - March 8 - 3:06 pm

  Great power for a car that price and hosepower. 1st gear power is great. Exterior design is ok. Interior is great. Seats are wonderful with a lot of space. The heated seats burn my buns. Its sooo slient I dont even know the car is running when it is. A little too bouncy though. More than a Towncar I think! So cant make those fast turns without feeling like youre about to roll over. Would not spend $30,000 for a new one but this would be a great buy to get a one year old one. Ive seen some for $15,000 for an 04 with 8,000 miles.

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  Used Lease Kia - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Paul - March 3 - 8:16 pm

  This is our poor mans Jag. We both like it, only my wife not real crazy about the need to shift to the overdrive.