2008 Kia Rondo Review

Kia's 2008 Rondo crossover SUV, new last year, is shorter than most mid-size sedans, while it's roomier inside than many vehicles with much larger exterior dimensions. The second row of seating provides 40.2 inches of headroom and 38.2 inches of legroom, and can adjust forward or backward up to a foot to help balance out legroom between the second and third rows. The optional third row brings up to 35.1 inches of headroom and 31.3 inches of legroom. There's also a handy under-floor storage compartment for keeping valuables out of sight.

Rondo comes with two engine choices, both available on frugal LX or upscale EX trims. A 2.4L four-cylinder engine, making 162 horsepower and 164 lb-ft of torque, is standard, while the available 2.7L V6 makes 182 horsepower and 182 lb-ft of torque. The four-cylinder engine is paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, while the V6 gets a five-speed automatic; both transmissions get the Sportmatic feature, which has a separate shift gate allowing the driver to control shifts. All Rondos have front-wheel drive.

Built on the same platform as Kia's Optima mid-size sedan and sharing some components, the Rondo has a very car-like ride, with a suspension layout featuring MacPherson struts in front and a multi-link setup in back. Anti-roll bars front and rear aid handling and responsiveness.

All Rondos come with front active headrests and six standard air bags, including dual front seat-mounted side bags and full-length side curtain bags. Electronic stability control and a four-channel anti-lock braking system are also standard.

The LX Base four-cylinder starts at only $16,395 and comes with five-passenger seating, alloy wheels, and power windows, locks, and mirrors. The LX adds air conditioning and roof rails. At the top is the EX, which brings larger 17-inch alloy wheels, fog lamps, and chrome trim on the outside, along with upgraded seat fabric, cruise control, keyless entry, an MP3-compatible CD system, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, and metal-finish interior door handles on the outside. The V6 is available for a $1,000 premium on both the LX and EX.

Heated leather seats and a power sunroof can be added to the EX, while cruise control, remote keyless entry, and an alarm system are available options on the LX. Air conditioning can be added to the LX Base.

As with the entire Kia line, the Rondo includes one of the best standard warranties, with coverage including a five-year or 60,000-mile basic warranty, ten years or 100,000 miles on powertrain components, and five years or 60,000 miles of roadside assistance.
The Kia Rondo, an all-new model for the U.S. market for 2007, has minimal changes for 2008. It swaps its cassette player for an auxiliary input jack for MP3 players and other audio devices. In addition, wheel locks are optional for 2008. see less