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. 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 mild exterior freshening and a nice interior touch-up serve to downplay the aesthetic awkwardness of earlier Amantis.

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 still has some notable drawbacks, and 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 and includes the usual modern conveniences.

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. Antilock brakes and a full array of airbags are standard; traction and stability control are optional. 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.

We have always been impressed with the Kia Amanti's equipment levels, ample space and low price. However, even with the 2007 chassis improvements, its handling is not particularly impressive, with the car's suspension sometimes getting uncomfortably upset when driving 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 grate-like grille don't do it any favors.

Past Kia Amanti models

There has essentially only been one generation for the Amanti, though there were significant changes made in 2007. These included a more powerful engine, structural enhancements that reduced curb weight, suspension tweaks for better handling and interior design and feature content revisions. In our editors' opinion, the suspension and interior updates were not 100 percent successful, so one can assume that all models will suffer in this regard.

Originally, the Kia Amanti debuted for 2004 with a 3.5-liter V6 that made an unimpressive 195 hp. It was upgraded to 200 hp the following year. Heated seats were added to the optional leather package in 2005.

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.