The Kia Amanti

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The Kia Amanti went into production in 2003 and has remained in production since that time. The vehicle is a full-size luxury car, designed to compete with other similar models on the market. The vehicle has seen several changes throughout its production, as well. However, the Amanti will not be available after the 2009 model year, as it has been discontinued in favor of a replacement model, in keeping with Kia’s change of nameplates.

The Kia Amanti made use of several different engine options during its lifespan. These included a 3.5, 3.8, 3.3 and 1.7-liter engine, though the smaller 3.3 and 2.7-liter engines were only available in Korea, and the larger engines were offered on the international market, notably in North America. The car also used two transmission options. It was outfitted with either a 5-speed automatic transmission or a 6-speed automatic transmission, depending on the year model of the car. No manual transmissions were offered and no diesel engines were ever installed in the Amanti.

While the Kia Amanti remained in its first generation throughout its production run, it did receive some significant upgrades and modifications in 2007. This mid-cycle refresh offered a new suspension, designed to provide better comfort at the cost of responsive handling, as well as a larger 3.8-liter engine (this marked the debut of their largest V6 engine in the North American market, outside of the Hyundai XG Grandeur, which was discontinued). The Kia Amanti also received an exterior style change that helped to differentiate it from other models on the road.

Interestingly, the Amanti scored very well in IIHS crash testing, outperforming many better-known luxury cars from global automakers. The NHTSA also awarded the Kia Amanti high scores in crash testing. JD Power and Associates also named the Amanti the Most Appealing Midsize Car for 2005.