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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  I Love It - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By Tim P - February 27 - 11:13 am

  Wanted a Lincoln LS but after seeing this car (actually my friend T.Y. saw it 1st & pointed it out) and test driving it, I was sold. Bought it used 1-owner who took excellent care of it. I like my 1998 Mercury Sable GS better as far as smooth riding but not complaining about it. I constantly receive compliments on it from young & old.

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  PLEASED ............UNTIL! - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Douglas - February 24 - 8:30 am

  I bought my car used from a reliable car dealership. The car was emaculant contion. The interior and exterior looked new. I was more than pleased with the car until I was told car needed new pistons, $1,800 plus tax. Although I was the second owner, the cars records have kept and the car has been maitained faithfully. (The car has been literally pampered). WATCH OUT WHEN YOU GET TO 80,000 MILES. I asked the KIA technician what causes it or how did it happen and the answer was " maybe the previous owner" and before he could get his answer out, I informed him of the upkeep AND records of the car before I purchased it. I even brought it to their dealership had it checked out before buying it.

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  Very reliable car - 2006 Kia Amanti
  By CaliJoe - February 18 - 1:13 pm

  Ive had my Amanti 2006 model for 6 months now and I love it. The price is great also with great warranty. I had it serviced once with kia dealership and they took care of my issue promptly. I also get it confused very often for expensive rides. I have a jaguar parking ticket to prove it. Some of my friends make fun because it lookd like a mutt between a jaguar and a lexus.

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  Whatta Car! - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By dallas - February 17 - 2:00 am

  I cant believe I got this much car for the price paid. The styling is superior and it drives like a dream. I enjoy watching people walk around it, looking and admiring.

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  Just Plain Smart! - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By jm9736 - February 17 - 2:00 am

  With this car its a "win Win Situation" Great price for LUXURY! You get all the bells whistles and luxury for SEVERAL Thousand less than LEXUS, BMW and Jaguar plus you get a 10 year Warranty! The leather is SUPERB and the Styling Elegant! Can you hear me now! Buy one its worth every penny!

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  great car - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By wood00 - February 7 - 10:00 am

  i think it a very good car for the price range. very stylish ,people always turning their heads asking question. i just love the carso many icant just pick one . i like the look

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  a very happy owner - the best car we have - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By robert H. - February 2 - 7:03 am

  We have owned many cars from the VW era to the Lincoln, Caddie era. Our Amanti sedan with all the bells and whistles arrived in May 04 and now has 16 thousand miles of the most pleasing hours behind the wheel. We look forward to taking trips, it is that much pleasure driving it. I researched this car and compared it to many other luxury cars; also drove 7 cars and found we kept coming back to the KIA AMANTI. I love it. The auto magazines I monitor have rated the AMANTI as the quietest car made at idle; 40 Db and at 70 mph at 63 Db. No car beats it for quietness and those of you who own one can vouch for that. Being an engineer I have done all sorts of evaluations. Why spend $50,000 more?

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  Would still buy it again - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By Like it, But! - January 28 - 10:26 pm

  Purchased March 1, 04. Since then I have had to return to the dealer to have the right front strut tightened, new carrier bearing, new transmission, new radio, to have the computer reset, and to pick up a new trunk light bulb. I currently have strut collers and bushings on order. But, with all this, the car handles as good as any Ive had, and this is #79. This car will get you looks, nice smiles and not once has anyone said anything bad after seeing everything it offers. Got $25,000? Offer the dealer $23,000 and drive it home. Power everything, great radio, leather, dual heat/air-power outside mirrors that tilt down in reverse. What else could you want?

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  My Silver Rocket - 2007 Kia Amanti
  By Avi - January 23 - 3:53 pm

  I bought my Amanti primarily for my wife in January 2008. The Amanti I bought was slightly used with 10,300 miles at the time of purchase. We traded in my wifes 2001 Buick Century. Although she loved her Century, it could not compare to the 2007 Amanti. The Amanti rides as well as or better than a Buick Lucerne or Park Avenue, and goes like a rocket. I have never driven such a luxurious riding car with such power. The car had to be returned to the dealer for two minor defects; but other than that, it is rock solid with excellent quality. Anyone that drives a 2007, 2008, or 2009 Amanti with the 264 hoursepower engine will LOVE it.

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  More than you expect - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Bill - January 20 - 8:46 am

  This car is far more than I ever expected! I have owned several high end European cars and I am just as happy with the KIA as I was with any of the much higher priced cars. Everyone who rides with us says the car is beautiful and rides like a dream. I love this car.