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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  Love it - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By Markus - January 21 - 9:36 pm

  An Avalon for the price of a base Camry! Ride is comparable to a Buick or Toyota; a bit flat but extremely cushy. Luxury abound!

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  service has been poor - 2006 Kia Amanti
  By Linda Leary - January 21 - 2:30 pm

  I have had front end problems since I bought this car. The transmission is going. The tires on my car are poor quality. The car needs some TLC. This could be a great car if the Kia people would take an interest in this car. It has a great body with good mileage. They need to fix the little things that give you an upset stomach. The car is new it should act that way.

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  surprisingly good - 2007 Kia Amanti
  By kickboyface - January 18 - 1:43 pm

  rented one of these for a week on a trip to las vegas based solely on the prompting of the counter clerk - "theyre REALLY nice." she was completely right. fun. powerful. fast. loaded with features. i rented a Cadillac a few days later and this car was REMARKABLY better. if i was ever in this type of car market, id buy a used one in a heartbeat (they have terrible residual value and its a spectacular car) -- you could get it for a steal.

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  Love it, some minor annoyances - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By peter j martin - January 11 - 8:00 pm

  Bought it 2nd hand with 125k on it, engine light stays on, presently at dealership to have it checked. Initially mirrors did not function properly but dealership replaced the console in arm rest, ok now. Love the car, gas mileage could be better however it is a heavy car with a big v6 engine. Could have come with a compass & gps system, have added both myself, with this said it comes with everything else you could possibly need.

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  This car sucks - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Kayla - January 4 - 3:22 am

  Ive only had this car for two months and it has broken down 3 times. Once while I was in the middle of diving and the other two times it just wouldnt start. The brakes suck and the side mirrors never stay set. I have to reset them every time I get in the car. Kia dealers are annoying. They told me I needed a new computer which would cost about $4000 so I towed it home and jumped it because they kill r my battery and it ran just fine. All it needed was a coil pack. Please dont buy this car ever.

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  After Inspection - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By mdfoster1 - December 23 - 4:56 pm

  Okay, I had the Amanti go through a full used car inspection at the Kia dealership. Cost $104.00. Three items needed attention - Left and Right valve cover gaskets need replacing, and the rear main seal needs replacing. Total cost for repairs by the dealership will be $1010.00. Do I still love the car - Yes! The leak must be a very small one because you cannot tell it has a leak by driving it and have not noticed oil leaking. Will I get it fixed - Yes when income taxes come in next year. Can it wait til then - they said it could as long as I keep an eye on the oil level. I paid $5000.00 for the car and NADA shows its value a little over $6000.00 so with the repair it will meet value.

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  love it - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By kittykat - December 21 - 2:00 am

  I am a new owner..only 700 miles so far but, it is wonderful! rides great, looks great, (in and out) has lots of features for safety and convenience...Ive had so many compliments about the look from total strangers....and best of all the price cant be beat for all that I got....i am more than pleased...

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  Great Car! - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By DRJJJJJ - December 20 - 6:30 am

  We have owned this car for about 2 weeks and have just wonderful things to say about. The car looks and feels like many upscales models of other manufacturers. Very luxurious interior, not to mention a smooth, quick ride. Great value for the money and with the long term warranty you cannot go wrong. Kia has proven themselves are worthy competitor with this car!

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  A Real Sleeper - 2004 Kia Amanti
  By Pain - December 11 - 2:03 am

  The performance and styling of the Amanti is outstanding. I have driven it across country and it handles and rides like a true luxury car. Several friends have compared the styling to that of the Jaguar. The solid door closing sound, the leather seats and the interior features gives the feeling of a much more expensive automobile. One negative, the tires are wearing out too fast even though they are balanced and aligned.

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  Best kept secret - 2005 Kia Amanti
  By Wm. Howell - November 27 - 10:20 pm

  I went from an Infiniti to a Lexus to my Amanti. Hands down this vehicle is quieter and has a smoother ride than my previous vehicles. Time will tell as to whether or not it is as reliable. Even though it is a new model, I feel secure with the 10 year warranty. I get a lot of stares and thumbs up driving it. I it just an all-round beautiful vehicle.