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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  My surprise - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Amanti - February 16 - 12:26 pm

  I have been a Cadillac owner for 30 years before I experience the Amanti. I rented this car on a business trip and had it for 2 weeks. I was to impressed with it, I drove to a local KIA dealer and told him to cloan it. He did give me a price and with the warranties I was very impressed. On my return home, I found a local dealer and just ordered it. I have taken two trips with it and found it like driving a Cadillac. You have one very satisfied customer. Please keep up the good work.

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  Made the right choice - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Mark Butler - February 15 - 9:50 pm

  I get so many compliments on my Amanti. I have never enjoyed a vehicle more. I look forward now to just driving to the grocery store. Heck, I just sit in it in the garage. The best warranty around. Awesome value and styling. The steering is so light; the ride the smoothest. I would put the quietness and comfort up against the Lexus any day.

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  Under $20,000 - 2008 Kia Amanti
  By Ron Ator - January 29 - 2:46 am

  I cant believe I got this car for under 20k. Yes I understand the 2009 models are on the way but I paid less than 65% of sticker price on this car. More power than Ill ever need but it is nice to know its there. I drive 45 miles round trip to work in a fuel conservation mode and consistently get better fuel mileage than I did in my Kia Spectra 5. The car is so comfortable that I find myself never being in a hurry to get where Im going. You should understand Im 62" and 240lbs so finding a comfortable car is not an easy task. Granted I have only had the car for 6 weeks but I could not be happier. People are always checking it out and commenting on it. I love my car!

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  A true bargain - 2006 Kia Amanti
  By Chris - January 28 - 6:56 pm

  I love my Amanti. It is the first new car I ever purchased and have had it three years now. I wish the gas mileage was a little better and the rear view mirror is almost too large and gets in the way of drivers view but all in all I have been quite happy with all the features. For the quality and looks of this car, it could easily cost much more.

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  KIA AMANTI - 2006 Kia Amanti
  By JO ANN - January 27 - 9:30 am

  I absolutely LOVE my Amanti. It preforms excellent, looks smashing, and comfort is outstanding. The only thing I would like to see is a little better gas mileage...but overall I would not trade my car in for anything else.

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  Excellent - 2006 Kia Amanti
  By Don Arsenault - January 17 - 1:03 am

  Great looking, handles well. Mileage could be a little better for a 6 cylinder. Overdrive could use a little improvement. Overall rating best bang for the buck and excellent warranty. Would recommend to everyone looking for a beautiful car with a reasonable price.

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  I love my Amanti - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Bill Howell - December 12 - 3:30 pm

  Ok, so Ive only had my Amanti a month, but I took another one overnight to drive and fell in love with its style and its handling. The doors shut solidly, the handling is unbelievable; rides smooth. I love the leather and dash. Its got 8 speakers, and the arm rest in the backseat has a compartment with drink holders built in. I get so many thumbs up from admirers. I think Hyundi taking over Kia was the best thing to happen to them. The 10 year/100,000 warranty with 5 years/60,000 is the best in the field.

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  Amanti the best clone available - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By bdndrb - December 6 - 10:00 am

  This is a great looking car, I moved out of a SUV and was a little concerned about being lower to the ground and having the same viewing advantage. No problem, the windaow, mirrors and the sun roof give excellent overall views. The accessories are excellent, the A/C works well in automatic the sound system is super good, and the ride is comfortable. So far I have no complaints or problems. definitely excellent value for the price.

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  The Amanti is the Premium - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By mgsand - December 4 - 11:03 pm

  The Amanti is a well put together sedan with a lot of extras. It handles well and the fuel economy is acceptable, 25+ on the hwy @ 65-70 MPH. The warranty certainly supersedes any other vehicle in its class. Everyone thinks it is a Mercedes or Jaguar, it is a great car to drive. I also think it is priced very reasonably.

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  Update - 2007 Kia Amanti
  By Jim - November 19 - 8:53 pm

  UPDATE: I wrote the previous post 3/25/2008. Since then I have not regretted this purchase for one moment. In fact Ive become a bigger fan of the Amanti. Extremely pleased and Ive upgraded my initial impressions because Ive had the chance to drive it. Great response, cornering. Wonderful highway feel, blows my Lincoln away. I would highly recommend this vehicle to anyone. At least - dont buy anything - until youve looked at the Amanti.