Kia Motor America's flagship model, the Amanti, is a premium midsize sedan that blends entry-level luxury, satisfying performance and safety enhancements into a package with a sub-premium price. It's defined by smooth, curved lines while maintaining a certain sporty flair. Distinctive exterior styling features include chrome accents such as the front grille, door handles and body-side moldings; clear-lens halogen headlights with front projection fog lights; tinted windows; and a dual exhaust.
Since the Amanti received a freshening last year with a lighter platform (250 pounds less to be precise), a more refined suspension and a 3.8-liter V6 engine that produces 264 horsepower, the 2008 model hasn't undergone any radical modifications. Amenities have been added for refinement, though, with optional packages that incorporate such features as 17-inch chrome wheels, power adjustable pedals, leather seat trim and a premium Infinity sound system.
Inside are more luxurious standard features highlighted with tasteful chrome, plush leather and polished wood accents. Door sill plates are finished in bright metal. An eight-way power adjustable driver's seat and four-way power adjustable front passenger's seat provide added comfort, while the leather-wrapped steering wheel features conveniently placed audio and cruise control functions. An optional Leather Package adds leather seat trim, heated front seats with individual driver and passenger settings as well as an Infinity six-disc, in-dash CD stereo with nine Infinity speakers. Adding the Premium Package provides black leather seats, brushed-aluminum interior trim, power adjustable pedals and 17-inch, seven-spoke chrome wheels.
Using a fully independent suspension featuring gas pressurized shocks, a front double wishbone and rear multi-link setup provides a smooth ride, while the precise power rack-and-pinion steering system allows drivers to adapt quickly to sudden driving changes.
My test Kia Amanti was finished outside in Midnight Gray metallic and inside in black leather, highlighted by aluminum trim accents. The Electronic Stability Package, Leather Package and Premium Package elevated the final cost to $31,695.
Summary
At first glance, the Kia Amanti brings to mind the Lincoln Towncar. It is the same basic shape, offers nearly the same interior space and sports a trunk that is 15.9 cubic feet, with a wide opening lid for easy loading and unloading.
The acceleration is brisk, especially for the car's size and the fact that it's powered by a V6 rather than a V8, and the handling borders on sporty. The ride quality is a tad on the "floaty" side (another Towncar attribute), but it isn't overly soft.
Safety features include multiple air bags, four-wheel antilock brakes, front active headrests, and LATCH system for child carseats. The 2008 Amanti is also backed by Kia's comprehensive warranty program, which includes a 10-year/100,000-mile limited power train warranty, a five-year/60,000-mile limited basic warranty, a five-year/100,000 mile limited anti-perforation warranty, and a five-year/60,000-mile 24-hour roadside assistance plan.
All in all, a loaded 2008 Kia Amanti provides nearly the same level of amenities as many higher-end luxury cars, but at a value price.
2008 Kia Amanti Sedan
Base price: $25,495
Price as tested: $31,695
Engine/transmission: 3.8-liter, 264-horsepower V6; five-speed automatic
Wheelbase: 110.2 inches
Length: 196.9 inches
Width: 72.8 inches
Height: 58.5 inches
Curb weight: 3,770 pounds
Fuel capacity: 18.5 gallons
Fuel consumption: 17 mpg city/24 mpg highway
Arv Voss
San Fransisco Chronicle
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