2007 Kia Rondo EX 2.4 4-cyl
Summary:
What America has been looking for in size and capacity, instead of the conventional SUV
Faults:
Brake rotors warped upon delivery.
Wheels out of balance upon delivery.
General Comments:
Great little urban commuter. Rides and handles almost like the Optima (from which it shares the same chassis and architecture). Minimal body lean - almost sporty.
Gobs of interior space. It has as much passenger room in the interior as a BMW 7 series, and the cargo capacity of a midsize SUV, without having to go to the truck-type chassis.
Upgraded EX trim includes 17 inch tires and wheels, all power equipment is standard and the control layout is sensible and well laid out. Mine has the sunroof and Infinity 6-pack stereo, and it is crisp and clear.
Clear sight lines and visibility, easy to maneuver, plenty of power from the 4-cylinder.
Gas mileage is not the best though - around 20-22 in the city, although it got an even 30 on the highway at moderate speeds.
Seats are firm and comfortable, but one is best to invest in some good aftermarket fabric protectant as the seats are prone to water spots that don't scrape off with your fingernail.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 30th April, 2008
9th Jun 2009, 19:36
Update from original submission. Rondo now has almost 15K on it, and it still handles like crazy. Just moved between the Poconos and the Catskills and the gas mileage hasn't suffered at all. It's 90% highway mileage from now on, and I have gotten around 32 mpg when not pushed to hard. Still get all kinds of "what the %#!$" stares and I just motor on. It's one hell of a vehicle. My brother just picked up an 08 EX with the V6 and the premium package and he got almost 31 mpg on a trip (it does have an extra gear though)
6th Nov 2009, 03:00
I have never get over 24mpg on my 2008 Kia Rondo LX V6. 31 mpg is a dream and I did not get it at all.
10th Nov 2009, 19:29
Original owner here again. I have the 4 cylinder model, so you having the V6 (even with the extra gear) will eat the gas. My brother has an 08 EX V6 Rondo and averages 28-29 mpg when driven prudently (60-65 mph).
7th Jun 2009, 10:01
I like the Rondo, a lot! it seems to me like it's a great bang for a buck these days. 22/30 EPA doesn't sound all that bad to me. My 99' Town & Country, equipped with a 3.8L V6, doesn't seem to have one shred of mercy. I can actually see the gas needle move, whenever I'm looking at it. Thanks you for the review, I will consider it when buying the Rondo.