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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  Stop Making the Amanti, please - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By golfer775 - May 26 - 12:35 am

  Got stuck on vacation in Florida with less than 5,000 mi. and replaced the transmission. New transmission goes "zzzzzz" between first and second gear. Kia, from dealer to national manager, refuses to replace or fix it. Dealer says all Amantis go "zzzzzz." Yeah, right. Engine light goes on repeatedly and have had it reset more than 8 times. Dealer wont replace sensor. Dome light went out after 10,000 mi. Bumper finish is pealing. Now with 60,000. Transmission slips regularly. Stay far away from this lemon model and Kia, in general. Awful customer service. Never again.

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  Finally found it! - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By LAJR - May 24 - 8:16 am

  I went from looking at Chevys, to Pontiacs, to Hyundais before I stumbled upon the Kia Amanti. I was sold after the test drive. The sales personnel at the dealership were outstanding (imagine that!). A must drive for anyone looking for a car.

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  Its the Bomb! - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By Noodles - May 17 - 7:20 pm

  Ive owned this car for almost 4 years. In town and on the road its been nothing but comfortable, reliable, smart-looking and eye-catching. Ive had lots of compliments. Ive done regular maintenance and NEVER had a problem. For a 63 year old.....its the bomb. Some have thought I was driving a Lincoln. Go ahead and think I paid 40,000,,,,,I didnt even pay half that! Before I drove only Honda Accords.

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  Unexpected - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By Mark - May 16 - 8:50 pm

  Just bought the car a week ago. It was a executive demo. It came with all the options. The car is very comfortable and the fuel economy is good for a car of this size. The onboard trip computer is telling me I am averaging almost 27 mpg on the highway. With mixed highway and local I am averaging almost 24 mpg. The trip computer is great, because I adjusted my driving habits to achieve the best mileage. My parents and grandparents saw it and they were just amazed.

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  Still rides like a charm - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Turbo - May 8 - 2:46 pm

  Well, I posted a review in July 11,2007. Well this car has exceeded all of my expectations thus far. I was a little apprehensive at first, about buying a car without much of a reported "track" record, however; I have not been disappointed. Since my purchase in 2006, I have had no problems whatsoever. I have performed all of my scheduled maintenance when due. I had 46,000+ miles on the standard Hankook Optimo 417 tires before replacing them. I bought the same tires because of the handling and ride that I got from them. This car sill rides like new and still gets plenty of comments from passers-by. The fuel mileage is quite good on the highway and not so good in the city. Great Car ;-}

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  Oh Yea - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Mike Hinton - March 16 - 5:13 pm

  This vehicle was more then I expected for this price. The ride is great. The exterior is a eye catcher. When I step on the gas the car moves with ease without the neck jerking effect. The V- 6 has more then enough get up and go. It makes one think that there is a V-8 under the hood. I could not believe it was a KIA; great job. I would buy another.

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  Pleased in Texas - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By Henry66 - March 7 - 10:00 am

  A very fine car. I am very happy with it. It is very quiet, comfortable and handles well for a family sedan. The detail work is very good and we have yet to find the slightest thing wrong with this automobile. A friend who owns a Lexus asked "Nice car,what did you pay for this?"

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  Great car ! - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By Rich Gruoen - March 7 - 2:00 am

  Love the size, and the quiet ride this car gives!

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  Smooth and really solid - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By AE1030 - March 1 - 10:00 am

  This car reminds me of the mid 70s Buick. The ride is great, power is more than enough for the average driver and the car is built really solid. Doors are very heavy and have extra large openings, so its easy for even large or older people to get into easily. Headroom and legroom is fantastic. The features are good and controls are easy to get to and understand.

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  The Amazing Amanti (Be Amazed!) - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By THE57SPOONS - February 18 - 4:10 am

  This is a refreshing change from Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Mazda and Mitsubishi, (and Ive owned them all in the past) . The ride is fantastic and I cannot began to tell you how many times people look at our black Kia wondering "thats nice!, what is it?" Were stopped all the time by friends, relatives, workmates, and folks we dont know asking about the car. Many peoples first thought is that it is a new Mercedes, or Jaguar from the front or even a new smaller Lincoln Town Car from the rear. I have never had a car that has generated more interest than our 2004 Kia Amanti!