For the majority of buyers the Amanti will handle just fine, thanks to its power-assisted, vehicle-speed-sensing, rack and pinion steering. It certainly isn't a land-yacht of yore. Unless being pushed to its limits, the 4-wheel independent coil spring suspension, combined with front and rear roll bars provide the car with nimble, predictable - albeit sluggish - handling that will suit the majority of those in its target audience.

For drivers seeking greater input in the Amanti's seamless gear-changing department, the Kia is equipped with Sportmatic, a clutchless manual shift mode. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

The vanilla pudding analogy is equally applicable to the Amanti's 5-speed automatic transmission. I was highly impressed by this unit. Shifts occur seamlessly, even under maximum acceleration. Passing downshifts are undertaken with much aplomb and composure. Power comes on gradually as the passing gear is phased-in, not kicked-in. As with many premium luxury cars, nothing in the Amanti happens hastily. No necks are snapped as slower cars are confidently passed. For drivers seeking greater input in the gear-changing department, the Kia is equipped with Sportmatic, a clutchless manual shift mode. This system works like most of the other sequential shifting automatics out there, overriding foolish redlining out of protection for its engine.

The Amanti's 200 horsepower engine with 220 lb-ft of torque moves it along with dignity. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

Either in manual or full automatic mode the Amanti's acceleration is more than adequate. Its 200 horsepower engine with 220 lb-ft of torque moves it along with dignity. Few drivers will yearn for more forward thrust; it's just not that kind of car. When things do approach the breaking point though, its traction control and electronic stability systems will restore order and civility. These are excellent features, especially when performing family hauling duties during inclement weather. I'm sure it was features such as these that Mr. Butterfield was referring to when he commented on the value packed into the Amanti.