2009 Kia Amanti: Road Test
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Our road test for the 2009 Kia Amanti includes a full evaluation of the 2009 Kia Amanti from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2009 Kia Amanti, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2009 Kia Amanti help you decide if a 2009 Kia Amanti is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 6.6 |
The V6 provides more than adequate power in any situation. The smooth, responsive engine is nicely complemented by a refined transmission.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 4.4 |
In Consumer Guide testing, a test Amanti averaged 17.8 mpg in city/highway driving. Amanti uses regular-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 6.6 |
Amanti's unusually soft suspension absorbs most smaller bumps fairly well but can be poorly composed over sharper bumps and potholes in city driving. Highway speeds bring an undue amount of bobbing over larger road imperfections.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 5.6 |
The softly sprung Amanti suffers from excessive lean in corners and vague, indirect steering. From behind the wheel the Amanti feels like a larger, heavier vehicle than it is.
QUIETNESS
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 6.8 |
The cabin is impressively hushed with very little wind or road noise. The V6 engine produces a refined muted growl when pushed but is otherwise nearly silent.
CONTROLS
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 6.4 |
The gauges are large and easy to read with most commonly used controls falling readily to the driver's hand. Some testers found the center stack's look-a like controls to be hard to identify quickly in low light conditions.
DETAILS
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 6.4 |
Though not quite to premium-car standards, Amanti's interior is nicely finished with soft, high quality materials. One test car suffered from an occasional reluctance to start.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 7.9 |
Amanti offers ample headroom and legroom, even for taller adults. The generously sized seats are nicely contoured and especially comfortable. The standard power driver's seat and tilt steering wheel help tailor a good driving position. Outward visibility is good, though very tall drivers may find that the inside rearview mirror is mounted low enough to interfere with their forward view.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 7 |
Legroom and headroom are good, even for six-footers. The seat is comfortable and nicely contoured. The large doors help make entering and exiting easy.
CARGO ROOM
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 4.3 |
Amanti's big trunk is usefully shaped and has a large opening. In-cabin storage includes a map pocket in each door, a two-level console bin, and a good-sized glovebox.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.8 |
This often-overlooked large sedan combines luxury-level passenger accommodations with attractive pricing. Handling is sloppy, however, and the overly soft ride will be a deterrent to many shoppers. But for those who fondly recall the large American cars of the 1970s, this may be your car, even if it happens to come from South Korea.
Total Score
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 67 | 68.8 |
Total Score: 67
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