Kia Amanti Review

2007 Kia Amanti Sedan Shown

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 is frequently overlooked by folks who otherwise end 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.

This Amanti's rarity results from its awkward styling, flaccid performance and Kia's below-average name recognition when it comes to higher-end cars. While the latter may improve in time, Kia addressed some of the Amanti's more immediate shortcomings for 2007. Although the exterior looked remarkably similar, it cloaked a completely redesigned car. 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. In addition, a modified chassis yielded significant weight loss and improved handling. A nice interior touch-up served to downplay the aesthetic awkwardness of the original Amanti.

These changes, combined with the car's lengthy warranty and impressive list of luxury features, make the current Kia Amanti a better choice than before. But it's still a car better suited for its home market of South Korea and features many notable drawbacks. Most shoppers should probably check out more established competitors before settling on the Amanti.

Current Kia Amanti

The Kia Amanti is a large sedan 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 is comprehensive. When optioned out, the Amanti features 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, aren't available.

The Amanti comes with a 3.8-liter V6 that provides 264 hp and 260 pound-feet of torque. This power is sent to the front wheels through a five-speed automatic transmission with manual shift control. Antilock brakes and a full array of airbags are standard; traction and stability control are optional.

We have always been impressed with the Kia Amanti's equipment levels, ample space and low price. However, its handling is not particularly impressive, with the car's suspension sometimes getting uncomfortably upset when driven quickly over bumps. Overall, the Amanti's road manners are 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-gratelike grille don't do it any favors either.

Used Kia Amanti Models

The current Kia Amanti represents the car's second generation, which dates back to 2007. There have been no major changes since then.

The original Kia Amanti was introduced for 2004 and featured a 3.5-liter V6 good for only 195 hp. It was upgraded to 200 hp the following year. Compared to the current Amanti, this generation was heavier and featured a more flaccid structure. Handling was even worse than at present and its suspension was less sophisticated. Several features were added as its life went on, including heated seats added to the 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.

Assuming a shopper is aware of the vehicle's shortcomings, a used Amanti could be considered a bargain thanks to its low resale values. Be sure to check if Kia's original lengthy warranty is still in effect.

SELECT A SPECIFIC KIA AMANTI MODEL YEAR*

* Edmunds.com maintains vehicle data as far back as 1990.