2009 Kia Amanti
- 2008 Kia Amanti
- Used Kia Amanti
Based on analysis of 19 Amanti reviews and test drives.
Kia Amanti - What the Auto Press Says
The 2009 Kia Amanti ranks 7 out of 9 Affordable Large Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 19 published reviews and test drives of the Kia Amanti, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The 2009 Kia Amanti is among the least expensive large sedans, and offers a comfortable interior and a long list of standard equipment. Its lackluster handling and odd styling, however, keep it out of the top of the large car class.
The automotive press is not impressed with the Kia Amanti. It is simply one of the most sluggish sedans you can buy today. While its discount pricing is attractive, in the current economy even many more attractive cars are available at discounted prices. See our best car deals page for details.
Consumer Guide captures the spirit of what the automotive press has to say about the Amanti when it writes, "This often-overlooked large sedan combines luxury-level passenger accommodations with attractive pricing. Handling is sloppy, however, and the overly soft ride will be a deterrent to many shoppers. But for those who fondly recall the large American cars of the 1970s, this may be your car, even if it happens to come from South Korea."
The Amanti also posts some of the lowest fuel-economy numbers in the large car class, and traditionally depreciates quickly -- two more checks in the expense column. Buyers might want to consider spending more up front to spend less later -- the 2009 Toyota Avalon won our Best Large Car for the Money Award because of its balance of high initial value with low long-term cost of ownership.
There is good news for Kia fans, however. The Amanti's replacement has been spotted in testing, and looks like a vastly improved car. It will probably reach dealerships for the 2011 model year -- and if recent Kia successes like the Soul and Forte are any indication, should be a giant step up from this current car.
The 2009 Kia Amanti is only available in one trim and features a 264-horsepower V6 engine and five-speed automatic transmission.
- "While the ... Kia Amanti may not seriously challenge the leaders in its near-luxury family sedan class, they'd certainly better take notice." -- Motor Week
- "The interior fit and finish surpasses what similarly priced American brands offer, though General Motors and Ford are improving. The Amanti also offers more luxury than what is found in the interiors of a Toyota or Honda in this price range." -- Boston Globe
- "The new Amanti is a lot of car for the money." -- Road and Track
- "In short, the car is a very good value." -- Washington Post
Amanti Performance - 7.5 (Good)
The '09 Amanti's strong and smooth powertrain satisfies test drivers."[T]he engine feels smooth even under heavy acceleration," writes Edmunds. "The Amanti has 264 horsepower, which is more than the standard V6s found in cars like the Buick LaCrosse, Chrysler 300 and Nissan Maxima." However, its comfort-tuned suspension alters its handling dynamics to the point where auto writers offer polarizing opinions. Read More
Amanti Exterior - 5.9 (Mediocre)
The Kia Amanti borrows styling cues from much more expensive vehicles, but not all reviewers think it's a success. The Washington Post says "It looks like a lot of cars all at once," and the Boston Globe calls the body "pug-ugly." Read More
Amanti Interior - 8.6 (Very Good)
Critics find the Kia Amanti's cabin nicely finished and well-equipped. Though it provides seating for five passengers, most say its better suited for four. "There's good room for four tall adults, with an especially roomy back seat -- although the center rear area is too hard for anything but short trips," writes the Chicago Sun-Times. Read More
Amanti Safety - NA
The 2009 Amanti has not yet been crash tested, but last year's model has and performs well. Standard safety technology includes electronic brakeforce distribution, side-impact door beams, and eight air bags. Read More
Amanti Reliability - 5.0 (Mediocre)
The 2009 Kia Amanti reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Kia covers the 2009 Amanti with a five-year/60,000-mile limited basic warranty. Read More
