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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  owner review-updated - 2008 Kia Amanti
  By herb45 - July 11 - 5:40 pm

  since i bought car in december,and wrote 1st review,i have many things to say.first,have had car in dealership many times for interior rattles,both in the dash,and where the rear subwoofer sits,the front rotors have since been repaired,but the shake when applying the brakes between 45-50mph has returned.also,the ride has really deteriorated a great deal,and mine has the 16-inch wheels !.the gas mileage has still been much better than expected.i had to wait over a month for the dealership to let me know their loaner car has arrived,and will be taking my car thursday of this week.i hope they fix this right this time...would like to know if anyone else has the same issues.

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  Very pleased owner - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Ken Myers - July 4 - 3:40 pm

  We compared the Chrysler 300 and the Kia Amanti. We found the Amanti to be equal in all areas and have been well satisfied. We own 4 other Chrysler products but with the warranty and price we choose the Kia.

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  Dream Car - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Les - June 14 - 7:40 am

  Now this is what I’d call love at first sight! This is a true dream car; we love it, so smooth, quite and comfortable. We had no intention of buying a car, but after a test drive, we were sold. I think the gas mileage is great at 27.8 highway; local driving, not so good. But overall, huge trunk space and a wonderful sound system, good acceleration, back seat ride, and those heated seats, wow! This is a great car for the money.

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  Smooth riding interstate cruiser - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Walt Reschke - June 11 - 10:46 pm

  We purchased our Amanti in November 2004, and have enjoyed every mile in it so far. The initial build quality has been excellent, with no initial problems whatsoever. The interior of the car is well thought out, and the power seat controls mounted high on the driver and passenger doors is a real plus. This is principally my wifes car (she picked it out after test driving all of the competitor offerings). After she took me to the Kia dealer for my own test drive I was hooked. The amount of vehicle you get for what you pay is absolutely remarkable. It may not have a "prestige" name plate, but the ride is great and we still have thousands of dollars in our bank account.

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  Dangerous to drive - 2006 Kia Amanti
  By wolley segap - June 8 - 12:26 pm

  The Amanti has severe problems with acceleration. The car will lunge forward or backwards when taking off. I have had the car in the shop many times and Kia says they are aware of the problem but does not have a fix. It was declared a lemon by the Arizona lemon law and replaced with a 2006 model Amanti. The 2006 has the same problems. Now I have to start all over again to try to solve the problem.

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  sharp car - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By whome - June 7 - 10:00 am

  rides good runs good fast enough to get into trouble

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  Beautiful Car Excellent Value - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By mstee - March 25 - 10:00 am

  My car is outstanding. I have been stopped a red lights, gas stations and shopping, with people saying how beautiful my car is and asking what is it. Many time I have been asked if it was a Benz or Jag.

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  Love My Amanti - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Alex - March 17 - 1:43 pm

  2 years ago, I brought a 2005 Kia Amanti. At the time, I thought no car could be better and gave it a 5 star review. Now, I have a Lexus LS 400 and that opinion has changed dramatically. The Kia Amanti is still a great car but you are wrong if you think you just got a very luxurious car thats as good as a Jag/Benz/Lexus/etc. The Amanti is a great VALUE luxury car that is very reliable, spacious, comfortable, fast/powerful, and smooth riding but compared to a bigger name luxury car like the ones that I just mentioned (particularly the LS 430 which it copied), it feels nowhere near as luxurious. The materials used on the interior are cheap and wear down easily, the handling and steering responsiveness is poor (the steering wheel literally feels numb, no exaggeration), and the side mirrors that never stay in place will drive you crazy. Repairs arent cheap. Gas mileage and resale value arent favorable.

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  Love the Amanti! - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Herb - March 17 - 8:30 am

  We have had the car for 9 months and love everything about it at the price. Granted fuel economy could be better but we are averaging 19.5 mpg in town and 23 mpg on the highway. Dollar for dollar, it is hard to beat this car.

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  love the car - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By diane - March 10 - 9:13 pm

  This is a classic car with many options for a reasonable price. It is a great car. Looks like a Mercedes.