2008 Kia Amanti: Redesigned and Packed-up with Luxury Style

The Kia Amanti also known as the Kia Opirus, is a full size sedan produced by Kia Motors. It is Kia’s flagship sedan. It was launched in April 2003, as Kia’s entry for the big demand of large sedans. After its launch, it has aged with little or no major changes until the model year 2007. In 2007 the Kia Amanti received a mixture of improvements, including interior and exterior styling revisions.

The 2008 Amanti is a carryover from 2007. It is a 4 door, 5-passenger family sedan, available in one trim only, the Base. “The Amanti is equipped with a standard 3.8-liter, V6, 264 horsepower engine that achieves 17 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. A 5-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard.” With this engine specification it apparently promises an easy ride and adequate power in any situation.

Most reviewers see the 2008 Kia Amanti exterior as inspired by luxury sedans. An auto body parts has been completely restyled for a better look and more fashionable design. The grille, headlamps and driving lamps, with concomitant changes to the hood and fenders were the one’s that’s been restyled to achieve this modern and luxurious look. The Amanti also features an updated hood and trunk as well as front and rear bumpers. Its wheels are made up of 17 inch tires on a 7 beam machined alloy wheels.

The Amanti’s interior is a high selling point for the car. It’s roomy, comfortable, and luxurious looking. It accommodates better than most models in the same category. The seats are supportive and comfortable with cloth seats that doesn’t need a good stretch after a long days drive. There’s also abundant headroom and legroom even for a 6 feet tall adult.

Standard interior features include, a dual-zone automatic climate control, one-touch auto-up/down power windows, leather wrapped steering wheel, audio and cruise control remote, auto dimming rearview mirror and a wireless transponder used to open garages, disarm security systems and adjust lighting. It promises a good quality entertainment system through an AM / FM / cassette / CD with eight speakers and a sound system. The overall interior is accented with metallic and wood materials allover.

“Standard safety features for the 2008 Kia Amanti include four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution, heated outside mirrors and fog lights for visibility, and a tire pressure monitoring system that alerts the driver to underinflated tires.”

Anthony Fontanelle is a 35-year-old automotive buff who grew up in the Windy City. He does freelance work for an automotive magazine when he is not busy customizing cars in his shop.