Auto Guide
2008 Kia Amanti
Used

Review and specifications

2008 Kia Amanti

The Amanti debuted for 2004 as Kia's first attempt to compete with large near-luxury sedans. The Amanti has a soft ride, along with a well equipped and nicely appointed cabin demonstrating good fit and finish. However, it missed the boat in certain respects. With reluctant handling and a lack of agility, the Amanti was the worst handling passenger car we'd tested during that period, although its optional electronic stability control (ESC) keeps it secure at its handling limits. The model's 2007 rejuvenation brought a firmer suspension calibration, which tamed the ride, along with a stronger 3.8-liter V6 that improved on the mediocre 3.5-liter. However, the Kia still handled clumsily and leaned considerably when cornering. The Amanti was discontinued after the 2009 model year.

Market value
$3,175
Fuel
Conventional
Transmission
Automatic
Seats
5
View listings Find dealers
Model year 2008
Owner rating Not rated
Reliability Not rated
Data updated December 4, 2025

At a glance

Model data

Overview

Powertrain
Conventional
Body style
sedan
Drive type
FWD
Transmission
Automatic, 5-speed
Category
Large cars
Generation began
2004

Pricing

Current retail median
$3,175
Retail value range
$3,175 - $3,175
Original MSRP range
$25,495 - $25,495
Trade-in range
$800 - $800

Ratings

Road test score
67/100

Fuel economy

EPA city
19 MPG
EPA highway
26 MPG
EPA combined
22 MPG
Tested city
12 MPG
Tested highway
27 MPG
Tested overall
18 MPG
Annual fuel cost
$2,125
Cruising range
340 miles

Road tests

0-30 mph
2.8 sec
0-60 mph
7.3 sec
60-0 mph braking
142 ft
Avoidance speed
50 mph
Test status
Test Completed

Dimensions

Length
197 in
Width
73 in
Height
59 in
Wheelbase
110 in
Weight
3,870 lb
Maximum load
860 lb
Towing capacity
2,000 lb

Interior

Seating
5 people
Front head room
3 in
Front leg room
41 in
Rear head room
4 in
Rear leg room
28.5 in
Luggage
4+1+0

Brand context

About Kia

For almost any modern vehicle category, there’s a Kia that’s worth considering buying. Among small and midsized SUVs, models like the Sportage and Sorento rank near the top in their respective classes for their nice interiors, ride comfort, and appropriately powerful engines. SUVs like the Telluride have ride comfort, interior space, and overall value that earn it regular placement near the top of Consumer Reports’ ratings. Fuel economy across the brand is generally good, but hybrid and plug-in hybrid options are available for even more miles per gallon. Plug-in hybrid options have useful all-electric driving range. Kia EVs are generally competent, ranging from compact sedans up to a three-row SUV. Kia’s reliability scores have been improving, but other brands score higher in our rankings. Specific Kia models have earned our recommendation among used cars.

Vehicle ID: 7972 First published: July 22, 2020 Updated: December 4, 2025

Values may vary by trim, options, location, and market conditions.

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