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:

• 

  Amanti Problem - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By D.Cummings - May 13 - 9:10 am

  Bought used w/6970 mi.on it(told it was a salesmans who leased a new one).Got home & on parking in driveway noticed light on dash,brake light was out! Went back it was replaced, but this was just the start!!Have since replaced 17 bulbs on this car!!! Car was checked & was told nothing wrong,its normal on Kias,& theres a lot of electronics on the vehicle.Each time nothing wrong is found, it costs me $92,so much for the warranty!! Lightbulb replacement cost $35-$40,since you cant get to them w/out removing half the frontend. Have had bottom of seats,bushings,rear support brackets and shifter all replaced, all taking 2 visits to do,as have to wait for parts! Im upside down & have to keep.

• 

  this is a very nice - 2009 Kia Amanti
  By monica broussard - April 4 - 12:50 pm

  this is such a lovely car to drive, while it is a beautiful luxury car it is still sporty with with power like a mercedes benz E350 over all i love it.

• 

  not bad - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By kenya - June 10 - 5:03 pm

  Overall not too bad of a car. Have a strange clicking when turning in reverse. Interior is real nice, need to make a change to the exterior rear of auto - too plain looking, doesnt go with the nice front end.

• 

  Solid, great warranty - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Sidney Prefer - January 31 - 4:13 pm

  The car rides very good, comfortable and quiet. It has enough power for me. The only drawback is mileage, about 21 overall.

• 

  Feeling sad - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Hopeful - September 28 - 12:33 pm

  I purchased my car with 913 miles on it. It was primarily driven by the Kia manager where I purchased my vehicle. I have roughly 28,000 miles on my car and I am on my 2nd transmission. The new transmission is unfortunately not any better than the initial one. My 1st tranny was replaced at 22,000. Ive brought it back to the dealership and told them about the new 2nd transmission slipping when starting up. Now with cold weather its even worse and Im actually afraid to drive it any long distances until I get this transmission remedied or get another new transmission. Im very envious of the folks who have had good luck. I really love my Amanti, but its sick at the moment.

• 

  2005 Kia Amanti - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Scott - September 6 - 11:06 pm

  I bought my 2005 Kia Amanti new from a dealer. I love the car and its performance.

• 

  Excellent luxury Kia - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By msho - August 7 - 10:00 am

  I spent a week driving it as a rental, in which time it has completely rebuilt my image of Kia. The build quality was far above what I expected and I got numerous looks while driving the car. I disregarded the break in period; the car had 50 miles on it; as a result sometimes the engine smelt like it was burning - not good.

• 

  more you drive it the more you like it - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By gpf - July 8 - 5:46 am

  Very good power, holds well in sharp curves with ESP option. Exceptional ride and build quality. Extremely quiet at all speeds. Good ergonomics and loads of space. Gas mileage is mediocre. Fit and finish is top drawer. Styling is not offensive but a little stodgy. I would buy it again. Lots of bang for the buck.

• 

  Hating my gas Milage - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By dynomite - June 3 - 1:56 pm

  Overall I love my new 2004 Amanti. I love everything about it. All but my gas mileage that is. I am continually going down in gas mileage. All the way from 19.4 when I bought it (33 Miles) down to 15.2 (2200 Miles). My dealer states it will get better but gets worse every day that I drive it. Would have purchased an SUV for this mileage I am getting.

• 

  extended review - 2008 Kia Amanti
  By herb45 - April 21 - 1:00 pm

  update.after 17000 miles,i have realized that this car i lousy around town,both in ride & quietness,but take her on the highway,away from the virginia beach roads,and she shines.highway mileage is around 30mpg,but the ride in city driving is not even on par with cadillac.all rattles have pretty much disappeared,but still concerned with the ride which tends to turn harsh over sharp bumps.i thought this was a luxury car????????? the power is great,but the tranny seems to hesitate at times,unless you use the manual gate.