Hyundai ’s Kia brand is technically the company’s budget brand, but that isn’t stopping the Korean automaker from offering some seriously delectable products. The Kia Soul and Forte are already garnering positive praise from the press with more of the same expected from the upcoming Forte Koup. Further accolades will likely be in order as Kia is said to be readying a new rear-wheel drive sedan.
According to Motor Trend, Kia’s next-generation Amanti sedan will switch from its current front-wheel drive platform to the same rear-wheel drive architecture that underpins the Hyundai Genesis Sedan and Coupe. Although a welcome change, the shift comes as quite a shock as most major automakers – such as General Motors and Ford – have abandoned rear-wheel drive plans in lieu of forthcoming CAFE regulations.
The next-generation Amanti – although that name could change for production – will be smaller than the up-scale Genesis Sedan and should steer clear of the Genesis’ $32,000 price tag. The current Amanti lists for just under $26,000, so expect a similar MSRP from the next-gen car.
To further keep the Amanti away from Genesis territory, Kia ’s flagship sedan will likely be offered with a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder and a 3.8L V6 – the same powertrains found in the Genesis Coupe. Although not as powerful as the V8-equipped Genesis, the Amanti’s lighter weight and sportier suspension should make it an appealing offer for younger buyers.
Expect to see the new Amanti on the road by the end of 2011.
