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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  Ks Amanti - 2006 Kia Amanti
  By RVEIL - April 15 - 9:23 am

  This vehicle is a nice handling and riding car, but has a little too much herky-Jerky on acceleration.

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  2004 Kia Amanti by Bob Gum - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By bgum - March 21 - 10:00 am

  I bought my Amanti in May 2004. I am very satisfied with everything except the noise generated underneath the car on city streets. It could be sound insulated better to aleveate this noise distraction. It is very distracting. However, on the highway, it is very quite. In fact it is one of the quietest cars Ive ever driven on good roads. The wind noise is almost non-existance. The fit & finish is excellent. The gas mileage is a decent 25.5 MPG on the highway. The seats, both front & rear are very comfortable. It could use a little more horsepower but I highly recommend this vehicle. It is an excellent value for your dollar.

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  My new Kia - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By kia guy - March 8 - 3:06 pm

  Great power for a car that price and hosepower. 1st gear power is great. Exterior design is ok. Interior is great. Seats are wonderful with a lot of space. The heated seats burn my buns. Its sooo slient I dont even know the car is running when it is. A little too bouncy though. More than a Towncar I think! So cant make those fast turns without feeling like youre about to roll over. Would not spend $30,000 for a new one but this would be a great buy to get a one year old one. Ive seen some for $15,000 for an 04 with 8,000 miles.

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  Used Lease Kia - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Paul - March 3 - 8:16 pm

  This is our poor mans Jag. We both like it, only my wife not real crazy about the need to shift to the overdrive.

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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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  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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  2004 Amanti - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By James DiStefano - December 14 - 10:23 am

  My 2004 Amanti is a great vehicle to ride and drive. Gas mileage I feel could have been better. After only 5,000 miles I had to have a new transmission put in.

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  my 04 Amanti - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By steve - December 2 - 12:30 am

  As a sales person I find this to be a fantastic vehicle for my needs. I disagree with the comment of a weak v-6. The car is very comfortable and has all the room 5 people need. I get a lot of positive comments on the vehicle. I will buy a second Amanti.

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  A nice car for a reasonable price. - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By LORI DEARSTONE - September 3 - 5:06 pm

  A very nice vehicle with a lot of features for a good price. It turns a lot of heads. Some have compared its looks to a Mercedes & Jaguar.

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  Dangerous KIA - 2006 Kia Amanti
  By Me and my 2006 Kia - June 3 - 3:10 pm

  I purchased this car six months ago and had it at the dealers three times in the first month. I complained that there was a problem with the transmission. When I would accelerate the car would lurch forward. I was at a traffic light and when the traffic light changed I accelerated the car lurched forward .I steered the car toward the sidewalk to keep from hitting the people in front of me. I hit a pole. The gas pedal stuck. This car is beautiful on the outside but dangerous mechanically.