For 2009, both the four- and six-cylinder engines see a modest bump in horsepower, and the base LX trim now features air conditioning as part of its standard equipment list. Last year's Leather Package, which includes leather seating surfaces and heated front seats, is now standard on EX trims.
The Rondo gives Kia entry into a new sub-segment of contemporary people movers, with personality and packaging capable of appealing to buyers in a variety of different demographic and psychographic groups.
Kia boldly strides into the burgeoning crossover segment for 2007 with its new Rondo. Affordable, flexible and offering both four- and six-cylinder power, plus room for five or seven passengers, this user-friendly front-wheel-drive hauler displays the kinds of features and optionsincluding standard stability control, anti-lock brakes (ABS) and the industry's longest and most comprehensive warranty packagethat have come to characterize most of Kia's current-generation products. While the Rondo's closest direct competitor would be the slightly smaller Mazda5, its cross-shopping potential encompasses everything from a Chrysler PT Cruiser, Chevrolet HHR or Dodge Caliber to front-wheel-drive versions of small unit-body SUVs like the Honda CR-V, Saturn VUE and Toyota RAV4.
By Big Ed (Blue Ridge Mountains) on Monday, November 24, 2008
overall rating 5 of 5rating details
"I am 6' 8" & 250 + pounds. I actually need to slide the drivers seat forward to drive the car. I have 2" of head room and do not need to recline the seat to drive comfortably. There is room behind me for another 6' 5" + passenger and he would have very comfortable leg & head room with me driving. We have 28,000 + miles with no problem of any kind. All we have done is change the oil every 4-5,000 miles. It is a fun car to drive. The select shift works well if going up or down very steep hills. The suspension is a little harsh on bumpy or rough roads. However, it's very smooth and comfortable on the interstates. We have done a couple of 800 + mile trips and been very comfortable and relaxed. It's a great car and a really great value."
15 people out of 15 found this review helpful
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By tim (south carolina) on Sunday, September 02, 2007
overall rating 4 of 5rating details
"hi I have 4 children and was looking for something different other than a caravan( which I have owned) I was looking at the ford escape hybrids but they don't offer them with a 3rd seat. so wanting to have better gas millage and still have room for all the kids and my wife and me, I looked at the rondo. I test drove one and it really impurest me. I also liked the warranty 10years 100'000 power train warranty.( to the first owner only I don't like that) but we plan on keeping it. I can't begin to tell you how much my wife and I like the rondo we have had it for about 6 months now. I plan on putting in a navigation system in the dash. the turning radius is unbelievable you can turn on a dime. and It does not feel top heavy like the mini vans or the suv's"
11 people out of 11 found this review helpful
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By HappyRondo (Happy Valley, Oregon) on Wednesday, December 05, 2007
overall rating 5 of 5rating details
"I had one as a rental back in October. It surprised me so much that I bought one in November. It is extremely comfortable in all 5 seating positions (have not sat in a 7 pass.) and has a surprising amount of room. The power from the 4-cylinder is plenty and the engine is refined, as are the shifts. I also enjoy the Sportmatic even though it is not a true manual. While I wish it had an intermittent mode for the rear wiper (as the brochure states)and mp3 capability for the base stereo (the 2008 has an mp3 jack), its positives outweigh the negatives. Try it and you just may be surprised. This is one of the best secrets on the road! Even if you are single with no kids, like me, I heartily recommend for its versatility alone not to mention the value."
10 people out of 10 found this review helpful
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