[Tubaryan12]

You gotta like for a 2 year old car, the only thing they had to replace were the wiper blades.

 

[MedicineMan]

A review by Kurt Gensheimer at CarReview.com. Please note that there are two pages to this review--if you have trouble getting to the second page, click here.

He had great things to say about the Rondo's build quality, cargo space, features, comfort, practicality and value.

On the minus side, he thought it was hit too many times with the ugly stick (I was going to make a joke about Prince Charles here, but I can't go to the well too often). V6 owners beware: he had some unpleasant things to say about its performance. Finally, this is the second review that I've read, all within the past month or so, that mentions the low-rising rear-hatch door as a potential hazard. I have to agree with him, although this problem is limited to the "vertically challenged" (in the opposite sense that the phrase is usually used). So please shed a tear for me for being too tall (don't worry, I make up for it by being not too tall in other areas).

 

[swampyankee22]

Just saw this on a Google news search from 4/22

2009 Kia Rondo | Auto Spectator

Another good review (which not withstanding my whistling window, I think its a great car... though I am having second thoughts about opting for the V6 with the timing belt as opposed to the V4 with the timing chain... though my hope still is that the V6 stands a better chance of lasting me 10 years.)

(also they had a review of the Kia Forte - seems like a nice upgrade over the Spectra 2010 Kia Forte | Auto Spectator

I take it there's no wagon/5 door option on that? Too bad!

New Kia Forte: 28 High-Res Photos and Official Brochure - Carscoop

 

[conwelpic]

I take it there's no wagon/5 door option on that? Too bad!

New Kia Forte: 28 High-Res Photos and Official Brochure - Carscoop

My dealer told me that the Soul was the replacement for the Spectra 5 - they don't want to get into the overlapping products like the big 3, look what's happening to them!

Too bad the Auto Spectator review shows photos of the '07 when they are reviewing a '09, shows they don't know the product too well.

 

[OregonBruin]

The 2010 Kia Forté will also have a coupé variant named Koup, which I think is going to be another reason there won't be a hatch version.

 

[MedicineMan]

Anyone from Malaysia? Here's a rather interesting review of the "NAZA Citra Rondo 2" from a blog called Other Roads.

 

[Blow-in]

Anyone from Malaysia? Here's a rather interesting review of the "NAZA Citra Rondo 2" from a blog called Other Roads.

As you say, an interesting review and MedicineMan even receives personal greetings at the end! What I (still) find interesting is that nearly everyone would like some of the Carens/Rondo features that are available in the market but not their local one.

 

[MedicineMan]

As you say, an interesting review and MedicineMan even receives personal greetings at the end!

Well, how about that. Best wishes to you, too, whoever you are at Other Roads.

What I (still) find interesting is that nearly everyone would like some of the Carens/Rondo features that are available in the market but not their local one.

So true. I love this feature, the fold-down armrests in the second row, which seems to be available only in South Africa (if it's available in your area, please chime up):



There's a shared armrest in the middle, too (I presume the seatback portion with the center headrest can be folded down), so you get two pseudo-captain's chairs.

Speaking of South Africa, here's a review of their version of the Carens with some interesting test-results stats: CARtoday.com (PDF file)

 

[MedicineMan]

2009 Rondo V6 Review from The North Bay Nugget

The review is below. Here are some highlights:

--The V6 is underwhelming, noisy under hard acceleration and fuel thirsty.

--Compared to the Mazda5: it doesn't seem faster despite the 5's smaller engine; it's roomier and more practical; and it's not as fun to drive.

--For all practical purposes, it shouldn't be considered a seven seater. I agree with this, if we're talking about your stereotypical big-butt North Americans. My kin, however, are small-to-average in height (and in weight) and I've used my seven seater to full capacity on a number of occasions. Yes, it's tight, but bearable if you're just going short distances.

--The review states, "only the passenger side second row seat has a special tab that allows it to slide forward." My 2007 Rondo has this tab on both sides--is this yet another feature removed on later year models?

Radically roomy Rondo
By Daniel Barron
From The North Bay Nugget


Whether it's a big, burly SUV, a hip little wagon, or a stylish coupe, Kia is putting together quite the well-rounded line-up.

The new-ish Rondo came to Canada for the 2007 model year, but it's actually in its third generation, having existed overseas as the Carens since 1999. It may not find itself in a popular vehicle class in North America, but it certainly adds a lot of practicality to Kia's line-up, offering a minivan-style package without the minivan look that is so abhorred here. There may be a lot of compact wagons on the market that could be considered competitors, but Rondo seems most closely matched to the Mazda5.

Our tester is the top of the line EX Luxury model, which comes standard with a V6 engine mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. Though it may seem that Rondo has the advantage here with a six-cylinder engine option (only a 2.3-litre inline-4 is available in the Mazda5), Kia's V6 is underwhelming. It has more muscle than the Mazda5, but the car doesn't feel particularly faster. The V6 engine is also quite loud under hard acceleration and it drinks gas more readily. We're talking higher fuel consumption here, folks!

The Mazda5 gets three rows of seating standard--each with two seats--while only certain Rondo trim levels come with the same (third row is optional on EX and EX-V6, standard on EX Premium and Luxury). Rondo's second row can seat up to three people, but that's certainly not something we would suggest. Looking at the Rondo and thinking seven-seater just does not compute.

Both models' second and third row seats fold completely flat in just about any combination you can think of. Accessing the Rondo's third row isn't the easiest thing in the world, but even taller people won't have too much trouble stepping into the low-to-the-ground Kia and past the sliding second row seats. Unfortunately, only the passenger side second row seat has a special tab that allows it to slide forward far enough to let adults into (or out of) the back.

There is a lot of room in the first two rows to keep four occupants more than comfortable, and the third row isn't a horrible option for short trips--even for adults. The leather that comes standard on the EX Luxury model doesn't feel of the highest quality, but it's easy to clean and makes sliding in and out a cinch. The driver has a very commanding view of the road too, thanks to a lot of glass and a high seating position.

The whole point of these vehicles is to haul stuff, whether it's breathing (people and animals, hopefully), or inanimate (luggage, grocery bags, golf clubs and the like). Both the Rondo and Mazda5 interiors are put together smartly, but if you need all-out room, Kia's offering takes the cake.

The Rondo not only has a lot of room to hold cargo, it also has all manner of hooks, nets, hidden compartments and cubbies to keep items from scattering every which way. The rear hatch opens tall and is easy to raise and lower with one arm. Roof rails also come standard on all trims but the LX.

A couple changes for the 2009 model year are slightly perplexing. All Rondos get Bluetooth standard--except for the top trim level, while the driver side foot rest has been deleted. The latter change may not seem like a big deal, but our left leg always ended up uncomfortably bent while driving, inside of being stretched out beside the brake pedal.

When all is said and done, if you're looking for the utmost practicality in a small package, Kia's Rondo takes the cake. Although, the Mazda5 is more fun to drive.
- - - - - - - - - -


Report Card (out of 5):

Fuel Economy: 3 -- Large-ish V6 is greedy with the gas.

Value for $: 4 -- Plenty packed in for a good price.

Styling: 3.5 -- Attracted the attention (good or bad) of no one.

Comfort: 4 -- Tons of room for first two rows, adaptable interior.

Performance: 4 -- Decent acceleration and handling, great versatility.

Overall: 4 -- Supposed to be very practical . . . and that's exactly what it is.

Strengths: versatile; roomy; price

Weaknesses: V6 engine; ride
- - - - - - - - - -


Fact file

Trim level: V6 EX Luxury

Price as tested (before tax): $26,595

Options: none

Freight: $1,650

MSRP range: $19,995 - $26,595

Configuration: front engine/front-wheel drive

Engine/Transmission: 2.7L V6/5-spd auto. with sequential shift

Power/Torque: 192 hp/184 lb.-ft.

Fuel (capacity): regular (60L)

Government fuel economy ratings: 11.6 L/100km city; 7.7 L/100 km hwy

Observed fuel economy: 10.5 L/100 km combined over 660 km

Warranties (basic): 5 years/100,000 km (comprehensive)

Competitors: Dodge Journey, Mazda5

 

[Sloppy]

Why would you think the V6 has a better chance of lasting you 10 years?

 

[KingFatty]

The review is below. Here are some highlights:

--The V6 is underwhelming, noisy under hard acceleration and fuel thirsty.

--Compared to the Mazda5: it doesn't seem faster despite the 5's smaller engine; it's roomier and more practical; and it's not as fun to drive.

--For all practical purposes, it shouldn't be considered a seven seater. I agree with this, if we're talking about your stereotypical big-butt North Americans. My kin, however, are small-to-average in height (and in weight) and I've used my seven seater to full capacity on a number of occasions. Yes, it's tight, but bearable if you're just going short distances.

--The review states, "only the passenger side second row seat has a special tab that allows it to slide forward." My 2007 Rondo has this tab on both sides--is this yet another feature removed on later year models?

What disappointed me about this review is that it includes statements that seem like opinions only, because the review doesn't provide any support or facts to back up the opinions. For example:

"Kia's V6 is underwhelming. It has more muscle than the Mazda5, but the car doesn't feel particularly faster."

What does this mean? If it has more muscle, what is preventing it from feeling faster - is it the weight, the gearing, the torque delivery.... what in the world does it mean when the reviewer resorts to "feelings"... maybe his feelings are different than mine, rendering his review less useful for average readers.

"Rondo's second row can seat up to three people, but that's certainly not something we would suggest."

Why not? Is it the size of the seat, or the size of the people... it's hard to figure out if there is a deficiency in the Rondo that the reviewer is hinting at, or if he just thinks all cars shouldn't cram 3 people into the second row?

This is the impression I get from everything in the review - more of a touchy-feely piece where the reviewer is sharing his own personal subjective feelings about the Rondo, without many concrete/objective factual statements that would actually help someone decide for themselves how they would feel about the Rondo.

 

[Mikos]

^^ Isn't that what a review is? Someone's opinion?

Difference is that some get paid for their opinions. :lol:

 

[deviant]

there is only one review that i am interested in, and for that we need the STIG and the Top Gear test track!

 

[Jesterle]

there is only one review that i am interested in, and for that we need the STIG and the Top Gear test track!

That would be cool! and certainly from a different perspective than the usual reviews.

What would you pit against it?

The Mazda 5 in the US would be an obvious choice, but since they are British what would be likely candidates there?

 

[deviant]

well if we restrict it to 7-seater MPV and non-crossover cars of simular specification engine diesel or petrol

the race would have these possible contenders

Mazda 5
Mazda - Mazda5 - Overview

Ford S-MAX
Overview

Toyota Verso
MPV - Toyota Verso MPV

Vauxhall Zafira
Zafira | Vehicle Range | Cars | Vauxhall Motors UK

Renault Grand Scenic
Renault UK - Renault Cars - New Grand Scenic

Citroen Grand picasso
Citroën UK Cars - The range - Citroën Grand C4 Picasso

Volkswagon Touran
The Official Website for Volkswagen UK : Volkswagen UK

it would be an interesting exercise on the track to see which one performed the best in a simular spec'd car.

 

[MedicineMan]

A positive review of the Canadian 2009 EX-V6 Luxury at Auto123.com, with a brief comparison to the Mazda5. Here's the most interesting quote from a decidedly uninteresting article:

Driving the 2009 Kia Rondo revealed some obvious flaws, including significant understeer and body roll as well as a fairly light steering.

Rondo buyers don’t seem to mind, though. While chatting with a few of them during my test week, they still showed tremendous satisfaction with the vehicle. Comfort, space and versatility dominated our conversations.

 

[Sigdal22]

winter tires

I recently i purchase a 2009 set of kumho izen kw27 winter tire for my 2008 rondo and glad i did. Great high speed winter tire in the rain and cold weather.

 

[conwelpic]

Kia Rondo Named to About.com 'Best Family Cars Under $20,000' List

Kia Crossover Utility Vehicle Honored by Respected Online Resource

- Kia Rondo highlighted for versatile seating arrangement and low starting price

- Midsize CUV offers family necessities, including safety features, comfort and ample interior space
IRVINE, Calif., Jan. 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Having recently honored the popular 2010 Forte compact sedan as one of the "Best New Cars of 2010," About.com has now named the Kia Rondo CUV to the "Best Family Cars Under $20,000" list. Selected for overall value and ability to comfortably accommodate up to seven adult passengers, Rondo proves a viable and budget-friendly option for growing families.

"In today's economy, consumers are constantly looking for ways to save money while retaining quality, and Rondo offers the functionality and safety of a minivan or SUV without the heft, low fuel economy or high price tag," said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing of Kia Motors America (KMA). "As we move forward with the largest product rollout in company history, which includes the all-new 2011 Sorento CUV, being recognized by a leading resource such as About.com further validates our commitment to delivering affordable, safe vehicles for families of all sizes."

About.com reviewed and selected a number of 2009 and 2010 model year vehicles, finally selecting the top 10 cars they felt best offered families an exceptional combination of value, comfort and seating for under $20,000. Other factors taken into consideration included easy rear seat access and ample cargo space to accommodate the typical needs of families.

Available in LX and EX trim levels and starting with a base price under $18,000(1), the Rondo offers consumers numerous amenities, capable handling and impressive standard convenience and safety features. For 2010 three-row, seven-passenger seating becomes standard to offer the same variety and space arrangements as a full-size SUV or minivan. In line with advanced styling cues, Rondo also now features the addition of standard side-view mirrors with integrated turn signals and a standard EcoMinder® indicator, which aids drivers in operating the vehicle in a more fuel-efficient manner by alerting them when they have reached optimum fuel efficiency, important as gas costs remain high.

 

[HRY]

Why would you think the V6 has a better chance of lasting you 10 years?

I chose the I4, myself, for the chain timing, but the V6 would have two advantages (that were trumped in my case).

Six pistons make 50% fewer revolutions that four. Each piston (and rod, valve, lifter) does less work.

In the Rondo, the six has the extra transmission gear. I don't know the ratios, but if the 5th gear works as an overdrive, the engine will turn fewer RPM at highway speeds than the four with the 4-speed.

 

[conwelpic]

gear ratios for the
2.4L and 2.7L

1st - 2.842 - 3.789
2nd - 1.529 - 2.064
3rd - 1.000 - 1.421
4th - 0.712 - 1.034
5th ---------- 0.728