Early Look At 2011 Kia Amanti

The affordable large car segment is starting to get just a little overcrowded, and in a time where customers all around the world are downsizing to smaller midsize models, performance, fuel-economy and overall value is now more important than ever. South Korea's entrants in this field have been winning plenty of accolades lately, especially newcomers like the Hyundai Genesis, and Kia is working on another large car that by the looks of things will only continue this trend.

The replacement for the Amanti sedan is just around the corner and a concept version has already been shown back at April's 2009 Seoul Auto Show. Today, we have leaked images that are claimed to be official renderings of the production 2011 Kia Amanti due in the second half of next year. Hopefully the curvaceous and muscular body, LED tail-lamps and sporty profile will help to erase the boring whitegoods-on-wheels look of the current Amanti.

Kia is yet to reveal any official details but the most likely engine options will be the company's new 2.4-liter direct-injected Theta II GDI four-cylinder, as well as a gasoline V-6.

According to a previous reports outlining Kia's future product plans, the new Amanti is set to make its world debut in August next year with sales expected in the following month. Incidentally, the underpinnings of the new car will also be shared with Hyundai's next-generation Azera, which is expected to be launched around the same time.

[Carscoop]