Used 2005 Kia Amanti Consumer Reviews
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
Great Faux Mercedes
Bought as rentacar with 12k mi and 1 yr old, we added 100k warranty for about $2k. Drive daily and on road trips with 2 small kids (now at 52k). Very good performance (no warranty repairs, just maintenance) and xlint comfort. Interior construction better than a Benz and just as quiet. Large trunk, durable leather, icy AC. Lots of looks when we take it into Mexico - they don't have these yet - but most people mistake it for a Jag in states.
Much More than You Think
I disagree with those who test drove this car. I drove from Seattle to Green Bay doing 600 miles a day in November and the car virtually hummed. The drive was the most exceptional drive I have made in a car and I was never more comfortable. In other cars, I would be adjusting the seat several times during the daily drive. I never touched the seat controls on the Amanti. I take issue with consumers being told to look at the Buick, or the Toyota. Why? This car has exceptional performance. I had no stability problems and I was driving thru some windy mountain passes. I have been in the snow now for a month. The car has been in subzero temperatures and it hums along every day. Great Buy!
WORDS CANNOT DESCRIBE!
this car is amazing...has over 150,000 and going strong...nothing has been done. just routine maintance. I excpect to get another 100k out of it...!!! well built and amazing ride!! luxury at its best!!!! sure beats a caddy ...lol I love it...I think it all depends on the driver. if you keep it all maintained and oil changes, don't drive like your going to a fire!!! and respect the car it will respect you forever!! :-)
I never thought I would buy a Kia
i recently found myself in the position of needing a new car. I shopped Chevy, Ford, Toyota, Nissan and ended up at a Kia dealership on a lark. Once I rode in it... It was over. The ride, the amenities and the look had me at hello. I had been driving in a friend's Lexus and the experience was virtually the same for less than half the price. I want home, did my "due diligence" and found an overwhelming abundance of positive reviews and experiences regarding the Amanti. In the "bang for the buck" category, the Amanti is the winner, Hands down.
Bentley Continental Flying Spur?
I purchased this vehicle in 2006. It looked like a Bentley or did it look like a Jag or did it look like an E-300 Mercedes or... well, you get the picture! This car is an eye catcher for sure. It kinda has to grow on you! It definitely has the European styling. It is priced way below the aforementioned vehicles. For the price and the warranty, you can't go wrong. I drove the Lincoln Town car, Cadillac DTS, and Mercury Crown Victoria before my purchase. Why spend the extra money! This car rates among these that I mentioned. JD Power and Associates rated it top in customer satisfaction and I have to agree. It is delightful to drive and I haven't had any problems with it to date.
One of the best
I feel this vehicle is not getting a fair rating in the "Consumer reports" Magazine. For one, my average MPG in town/city is 19. I have not had it on a long trip yet so I don't know what the highway mpg will be but I expect it to be more than what it is rated. I traded a 1997 Cadillac Seville on this car and I like it just as well if not better. The only thing missing on this vehicle that the Cadillac had is a compass. It is just as quiet and smooth as the Caddy and just as fast. It has better SRS that the Cad.So far, I have no complaints about this vehicle. Someone needs to get on Consumer Reports and learn more about this vehicle before they publish their ratings.
Great car
Actually purchased used after having been a Hertz Rental. Have had the car for over a year and it has performed flawlessly. Comfortable to drive as the leather seats are heated and can be positioned for comfort - with lumbar support! Only complaint is economy. About 24MPG on the highway and 19MPG in town. Our previous car was a 97 Cadillac V-8 that had better gas mileage but not near as fun to drive as our KIA Amanti.
Mirror Problems
I own a Kia 2005 Amanti and have always had problems with the side mirrors. The vehicle is equipped with switches that preset the seats and mirrors. Unfortunately, the mirrors do not go back to what you preset. That means that you have to constantly readjust the the mirrors. I'm taking the vehicle to the dealer today, but it looks like other Kia Amanti owners have had problems with the mirrors and have just been given the run around by the dealers based on what I am reading on the internet. If you like AM radio, don't get this vehicle. AM reception is terrible.
Love My Amanti
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 that's 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 aren't cheap. Gas mileage and resale value aren't favorable.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
First car I loved
I had the Amanti 6 years and then had to sell. I loved that car but in the last year we put in over $3,000 for catalytic converter, some kind of band, headlights, testing, electrics and other misc. then got the news our transmission was going and another $2,500. Less than 92K miles & only 7 years old. I wanted to pay for repairs but husband told me to face the fact the car was going to nickle and dime us. I actually miss that car. For the price I originally paid, the luxury and style it provided, it couldn't be beat. This was my first foreign car, and probably the last.
Unbelievable value
After researching, it seemed to be too good a value to be true. After purchasing, I can't believe that there aren't more on the road. All of the amenities of a Lexus (except for the underpowered engine) at a fraction of the cost. Great ride - quiet and smooth on the highway. Controls are extensive and easily accessible. Very satisfied and I'd be inclined to purchase another, especially if the engine gets upgraded (more power and/or better mileage).
A PLUS FOR KIA AMANTI
My experience with the Kia Amanti has a a very favorable response. The car has held up to all of my expectations. Sporty to drive, comfortable to ride in. Good acceleration in tight spots, disk brakes gives smooth stopping. Excellent vision with very few blind spots. Heated seats, 6 disk changer, moon roof, separate temperature control, memory seat control all add to the pleasure of owning the Kia Amanti. I have had several favorable comments as to the design (very modern); also the headroom is very adequate.
Driving in comfort
We enjoy the comfort and low price luxury of this car. It has all the amenities you could ask for as well as space for five adults. I have read critic's reports about being under powered but we have not found this to the case, previously we had a 93 Intrepid and this car feels as strong as the Dodge. The instruments are clear & easy to use, the leather seats and interior is impeccable & high quality. The trunk is very large, we have put luggage for 3 adults for a 2 week trip with room to spare. The interior & exterior fit of all panels is perfect.In my lifetime (68) I have had many cars including a Cadillac & this car is as good as any of them so far. Signed-- Totally satisfied
PLEASED ............UNTIL!
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.
Excellent Car in every aspect.
This is by far the best and greatest purchase of an automobile we ever made ( in my life I have purchased some 45 to 50 cars). Even with high mileage, this is an absolute beauty.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
KIA...Car Paint Job is a Joke
Bought this car 4 years ago; wanted a luxry car but not the price. Saw this beauty and took it home. Had the car a month and the paint on the front bumper started to bubble and the paint clear coat started chipping. Took it too the dealership and was told there was nothing they could do and it was my fault. Took it too a paint and collision shop and I was told when it bubbles it is bad paint & clear coat from Kia. Went back to talk to the manager and still refused to fix my paint. Then the electrical need to be replaced and the fuel injectors went bad and air conditioner went out. Stay away if you can! Kia doesn't care about your or there cars.
New car drive
Just got car today, 94 mile drive home averaged 24.1 mpg at 65mph, temp outside - 24. Roads very icy, car drove excellent, stayed on track and stayed comfortable temp inside. Did not feel ice lumps on the road and didn't hear much road noise.
Love hate relationship
Bought this car for the wife. We both love the car. The fit finish and comfort are great. The gas mileage is terrible. The cost of maintaining the car has been far too high. I seem to have to buy several new headlights a year at around $80 a pop. Just had the mandatory 60K service and the tab was $1,300. Replaced the timing belt as recommended. The belt had zero sign of wear on it and will not do it again at 120K if we still have it. They will make you buy a new hydraulic tensioner when they do the job. They charge me $189 for that very simple device. Overall cost of maintenance is out of control and my make me shy away from another KIA in the future. Transaxle had to be replaced at 39K.
Not Happy
When I first got the car I was very excited. It was my first luxury car and every thing was great until after the first week. The radio stopped working and I tried to get it fixed but the dealership I got it from was not very helpful. I had to go to someone else to get anything done. The radio has been fine until the past month when the speakers started to go again and I never listen to my music loud. Other electronics are malfunctioning too, like my side mirrors and my seat. Every time I get in my car I have to readjust them because the just move on them own. The power steering also goes when it rains and the mechanic couldn't tel me why. Can't believe a 2005 has so many issues!
Best kept secret
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.
Awesome return on investment
At the moment I drive 360 miles one way to work on my 2005 Amanti. Combined highway and city mpg average is 22.7 mph and I drive 70+ mph when I can. Performs better than what my 450SEL did and the amenities far exceed any car or truck I have owned. 4 way auto windows, heated lumbar leather seats, individual heat/air controls for driver/passengers including the rear just to name a few. Awesome engine performance. When you kick this engine in the butt... hold on. I love this car. Miles are now 57k time to trade so I started looking at King Ranch but changed my mind. I pick up my new Amanti tomorrow. One more thing, the KIA warranty is awesome. I actually enjoy my dealership experience.
Beauty is only skin deep
This car is a piece of junk! I have had it for about 3 months and added only around 300 miles. The check engine light came on at 3 miles. dealer reset the light. Light is back on. Today (9/23/11) within 2 miles I had sudden acceleration twice . The only way I avoided an accident was to put the care in neutral. The biggest mistake I ever made. Sure it is a beauty but I can take a pig and give it a bubble bath and dress it in fancy clothes but it is still a pig. I'd unload it but I"d be upside down big time and no wheels till I pay it off
Stop Making the Amanti, please
Got stuck on vacation in Florida with less than 5,000 mi. and replaced the transmission. New transmission goes "zzzzzz" between first and second gear. Kia, from dealer to national manager, refuses to replace or fix it. Dealer says all Amanti's go "zzzzzz." Yeah, right. Engine light goes on repeatedly and have had it reset more than 8 times. Dealer won't replace sensor. Dome light went out after 10,000 mi. Bumper finish is pealing. Now with 60,000. Transmission slips regularly. Stay far away from this lemon model and Kia, in general. Awful customer service. Never again.
This car sucks
I've 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 wouldn't 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 don't buy this car ever.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Unhappy Owner in New York/Florida
I have been very disappointed. The first week of ownership I needed two tows in Florida. I immediately purchased a new battery when stranded a second time. The seats are rock hard and the seat belt buckle cuts into my hip. Then car had some kind of transmission burning and needed a transmission replacement. I was first towed and paid $300 to recover my car. I have to drive 80 miles to the closest dealer in upstate NY. After waxing the car about 4 times in 2 years the exterior paint job is looking shabby.The car always stalls out.The replaced transmission hesitates for 4 seconds and then jerks. It gets a horrible 11 to 17 mpg. The tires need replacing at 27,000 mile. The brakes need work now
KIA Amanti "GOOD CAR"
The KIA Amanti is a well built car. The ride is very smooth and quite. Handling and visibility is excellent. Interior is roomy and comfortable. Sound system is superior (Infinity} with cassette and 6 cd changer. It is equipped with many options found in cars costing much more. Started out to buy a Chrysler 300 and test drove the KIA Amanti and was very impressed with it.
fall in love again
I drive a lot. I am thrilled with the side curtain airbags and the front passenger seat monitor of the airbag. I love the ability to manually shift. The heaviness of the vehicle lends to that old feeling of safety. I adore the look of the car itself and am thrilled to say that for the past month I am getting 26 miles to the gallon (3000 miles). I truly might be able to love again ... this car makes you remember those feelings!
Imports really did it this time
The luxury of the best of both domestics and import high end at a price all can appreciate. Best value available today. Looks like a Bentley and Lincoln combined. Handles like a Rolls. The best of all luxury cars at a domestic economy price.
Amanti vs Cadillac
I went from a Cadillac to an Amanti - a HUGE difference. The Amanti has a "fast" car feel when driving, hugging the curves. There are Cadillac comfort features that I miss: Armrest for the driver, side mirrors that stay set, outlets that work when the engine is off, and better available storage for the driver. The plus items for the Amanti would be: nice trunk, comfortable rear passenger sets, individual a/c settings, and the front passenger seat reclines. We did tint the windows and now the car looks 100% like a Jag - just needs the hood emblem. One service center actually thought it was a Jag until he saw the wheel coverings.
Great Used Car
I bought my 05 Kia Amanti used from a Toyota dealer. It has been the best used car I've purchased yet. My wife loves it! It has been on two long trips and the gas mileage is great (26 mpg).This has been with three people and two large suitcases in the trunk.
Tickled in Tacoma
Just purchased in July 2005. Looked around on the web and local dealerships for Nissan, Toyota, Mercury, Chevrolet, and Honda vehicles similar to this one. After researching and test driving, I decided on the Amanti. Couldn't be any happier, as it's a joy to drive. The salesman has contacted me three times since my purchase to ensure I was happy, and the dealership treated me like I was purchasing a car for twice what I did. The ride is smooth and quiet, and I bought a near-luxury car, not a sports car, so I don't expect it to drive like a Miata or Triumph. Very happy with the car and purchase experience. I would heartily recommend this car (and have!) to friends and family.
My Amanti
We went on a 6 week trip this year and had the 30,000. check up before we left. We put over 3,000 miles while we were gone and the car performed outstanding. We reached 34.1 mpg on the highway and thought it was a mistake but after calculating the miles it was correct. The Nitrol that was put in the tires may have been a factor. I have a friend that wants my car but I wont sell to her. My free oil changes and service I receive from Bill Bryan Kia will have me in my car for a little longer.
I Own One, I Like It!
This car was designed to impress the passengers more than the pedestrians. While the design will not win any awards, I like it because it has a stately look to it. Tall greenhouse, aggressive front end, impressive stance. It's a pleasure to drive as long as you don't expect to beat the Chrysler 300C next to you at the stop light. I traded a Caddy Seville in on this car. I like the ride and features in the Amanti better.
Best Kept Secret in Imports
Finishing up seven months of ownership on this vehicle and I can honestly say that the Q45 Infinity that I traded is a distant memory. The build quality, fit and finish, ride and performance are everything that I expected and more! Still a head-turning style (a big part of the decision to buy) and now more recognized as the quality vehicle it is, this has got to be the bargain of the decade. Luxury AND affordability in the same package. I'm gonna make sure I own some KIA stock.
Very pleased owner
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.
Our Amanti
Although we have only had our Kia Amanti a few months, we love it and are very happy we bought it. The steering is so "light" and easy ... so simple to drive. Feels like a "luxury" car to me, but very affordable. The trunk is huge; very important to me. The interior is roomy, back seat comfy, and very attractive interior. Other reviews say it's slow on take off -- well, I find I must watch my take offs as it seems to really GO! Very easy to glide along on the highway and loose track of your speed. We think it's a beautiful car and so far, no regrets.
MY Amanti
In the real estate business, this car performs well. It looks great, is quiet so we can speak without the thumping and banging my past luxury cars had. Almost no wind noise and the engine is quiet. The heat and A/C work well, great traction in wet and snow. I drive 40k a year and this car does what it should. Nothing has broken, and all systems are above par. I have had many other cars; Jag X and S, Chrysler 300M, and Park Aveneu, but none have it all like the Amanti. I listen and feel for vibrations; this is a heavy car and has none. Quality everywhere -- just open the hood, trunk, and doors. If Kia came to U.S with its current cars and prices everyone would respect their product more.
Kribe123
I am very happy. I feel like a King driving my car. Actually is too much car for the price. It is the best deal I have doing buying a vehicle; so far I have no complaints. I am only worry about sales strategy of Kia. I don't see many Amantis on the road. I have no plans to trade this car for a while but If I will I will receive less money for it.
Luv Amanti
Yes it is slow but it is very quiet and comfortable. High quality amenities. Kia based its design on the top luxury cars. It uses the same key entry and power windows as the BMW. The sound system is superb. The trunk and engine compartment are beautiful. I get 22 MPG consistently.
Great owning car
Quiet driving vehicle. Not a lot of power but enough for city and highway. People can't believe it's a Kia.
Kia Amanti
The typical Kia reliability is evident in the Amanti as well as in the other Kia cars I've owned over the past 11 years. Excellent value, absolute reliability. It's not a "performance" car, nor does it pretend to be. More than adequate power for "normal" driving.
Smooth Ride
I really like the nice, smooth highway ride. The interior looks rich and controls work smoothly. I like the style of the roof, especially the rear. It's squared off, not rounded like all the rest.
Best Car I've Ever Owned
I bought a white pearl in 2005 and my husband did not care for the color so we were out riding one day and we stopped by the car lot and decided to trade it in for a black one. These cars are so sharp looking, no matter what color they are. I feel like I'm riding in a Cadillac but I did not have to pay the price for one! I love my car and my next car will be an Amanti and it will be my third Amanti that I have owned. Just ask me and I'll tell you like I tell everyone else "best car I've ever owned".
I love it!
I love everything about this car! But, the gas mileage lacks a lot to be desired. You must use premium gas, but the best I have done on a long road trip is 17.2 mpg. I don't believe I will ever see 25 mpg. The strange thing is that it does not seem to matter with this car whether you drive it like a grandma or at high speeds. It gets the same on a long trip either way. I must say that I like the car enough that even with the bad gas mileage, I would still purchase the same car if I had it to do all over again. I spent a long time shopping prior to buying, and for the price, in my opinion, it is the best car on the market. Very high quality.
Love my Kia Amanti
I got my Kia Amanti in Aug. '04 and have never been disappointed in it. I traded a Cadillac Catera for it, and I prefer the Kia. It is a great size car, handles well, and the price is right. I have had nothing done to it; other than oil changes and regular maintenance. It is a great car, and I will purchase another one in the future.
What a bargain
I found this car by accident, drove it reluctantly, and fell in love. I make a good living and NEVER play keep up with the Jones type games.The exterior is kind of weird looking to my taste, but the interior is beyond first class I find it very responsive, good mileage, and a pleasure to commute in. If you're looking for a first class car, and want to save a lot of money, try the Amanti.
Bettet Than I Believed
I thought this would be a short-term use car as I was buying it at end of the year sales. I didn't think I would actually find a car that would really meet my needs for long-term use in the short exploring time I had to review cars available. The KIA Amanti model is quite eye-catching and I receive many compliments and interested looks while out with the car. I was quite surprised at how well it handles, engine performance, speed and brakes. I think it is outstanding compared to a previous Saturn I owned. The Amanti compares with and exceeds many features to a Toyota Camry that I thought was one of my best previously owned cars.
So glad I bought it!
How can you beat this car at this price! It rides great, is extremely comfortable and has all the features I wanted. I traded in a Lincoln Continental which was a great car but I'm glad I did. Love the Cream Gold color with the Black interior - it looks soooo rich. I work at a professional service firm and I can't believe how many people have made positive comments about my new sweet ride! Can't wait to have a reason to go somewhere. I open the moon roof, turn on the fantastic Infinity stereo system and I'm in heaven!
It's a good one
So far I have 18,000 miles on the vehicle; during the summer I took a 4,000 mile trip over a 2 week period. The gas mileage was between 20 and 25 MPG; around town I get an average of 17. I still enjoy getting in and driving it. I would recommend it to anyone. The vehicle I traded in on this one was a 2003 Kia Sorento which was excellent and this Amanti is too.
2005 Kia Amanti
We gave up a DeVille for the Amanti and it has been a great luxury car. The gas mileage could be a lot better but everything so far, seems to been built very well.