2005 Kia Amanti in Chattanooga, TN - $1,491

As the automaker’s flagship sedan, the Amanti was the start of a shift in consumer impressions of the automaker as a maker of small entry-level cars to that of a company providing value in a broader range of segments in the American marketplace.

Impressively sophisticated and refined, Kia gave the Amanti a complete freshening last year inside and out. Changes, upgrades and enhancements to the exterior include: redesigned hood, radiator grille, head lamps, front and rear bumpers, alloy wheels, trunk decklid, dual exhaust (replaces single exhaust), and rear quarter panel. Standard 235/55R17 tires offer a choice between machined or chrome finish alloy wheels.

Interior changes and enhancements include: a redesigned instrument panel, center fascia, floor console, meter cluster, audio head unit, steering wheel controls, cloth fabric pattern, new white-blue interior illumination and standard tire pressure monitoring system. An available Premium package consists of a black interior, Supervision meter cluster, aluminum interior trim and 17-inch tires with chrome finish alloy wheels. Power adjustable pedals are a new option.

The Amanti is powered by a velvety-smooth 3.8L V6 and joined to an electronically controlled five-speed automatic transmission with overdrive and Sportmatic clutchless shifting.

On the road, the Amanti is very responsive -â€" plush, mannerable, and oh-so smooth. Acceleration is strong and sure, with predictable, assuring handling.

A steel unibody serves as the foundation for the four-wheel independent suspension system. The front suspension consists of a double wishbone system with coil springs and an anti-roll bar. The rear suspension features a multi-link configuration with coil springs and an anti-roll bar.

The passenger cabin is a study in luxurious tastes, opulent appointments and occupant comfort. The interior is a world class environment for driver and passengers alike. Displays are easy to read. Switches and controls are intuitively simple to find and operate.

Controls for the power mirrors, door locks, windows, front seating, fuel filler door and trunk release are built into the driver's side door. Built into the steering wheel are the controls for the cruise control and audio system. The center stack features dual zone climate controls. The armrest is both height and position adjustable, with the center console which is the essence of utility and convenience.

There are three power points located throughout the cabin -- center of the dashboard, inside the armrest storage bin and at the rear of the center console for rear seat passengers. Speaking of rear seat occupants, Kia did not ignore them, designing in plenty of leg and hip room. The cavernous back seat features a center armrest with dual cupholders built in. Amanti's doors are big and open wide (almost 90 degrees) to facilitate entry and exit.



Dimensions & specifications

Wheelbase: 110.2; overall length: 196.9; width: 72.8; height: 58.5 -- all vehicle measurements are in inches.

Engine: 264 hp at 6,000 rpm and 260 lbs-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm.

Transmission: electronically controlled five-speed automatic with overdrive and Sportmatic clutchless shifting.

EPA fuel economy: 17 city/24 hwy.

Cargo capacity: 15.5 cu. ft.

Parts content â€"- country of origin

Final assembly point: Korea.

US/Canada: 7.0 percent

Korea: 84.0 percent

Engine and transmission: Korea.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, head curtain side-impact airbags, seat-mounted side-impact airbags, tire pressure monitor, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, engine immobilizer, remote keyless entry, fog lights, garage door opener, automatic headlamp control and alarm system. Optional safety features include electronic stability control, traction control and brake assist.

Warranty

Basic: 5-year/60,000 mile, bumper-to-bumper.

Powertrain: 10-year/100,000 mile.

Corrosion: 5-year/100,000 mile.

Roadside assistance: 5-year/60,000 mile, 24-hour.

Pricing

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2008 Kia Amanti sedan starts from $25,495 with destination charges adding $700.

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