Overview & Reviews

What is the Kia Rondo? Kia likes to call the Rondo a crossover utility vehicle, which is certainly a trendy catchphrase. The only problem is that the Rondo looks more like a small minivan. In Europe and Asia, this type of vehicle -- known as "space wagon MPV" -- is quite popular. In fact, the Rondo has been sold in those markets (as the Kia Carens) for years.

Though it never really caught on with consumers, the Kia Rondo provides a surprising amount of functionality and flexibility for its size and price. As a cross between a minivan and a hatchback, the four-door Rondo can carry up to seven passengers. It's relatively nimble and filled with clever storage space. If you're in the market for a used compact crossover or something smaller than a minivan, the Rondo is a solid, if often overlooked, choice.

Most Recent Kia Rondo
The Kia Rondo was produced from 2007-'09. Originally, its base 2.4-liter four-cylinder produced 162 horsepower, while the 2.7-liter V6 produced 182 hp. For 2009, these were bumped up to 175 for the four-cylinder (167 in California emissions states due to SULEV emissions rating) and 192 for the V6. A four-speed automatic transmission was standard with the four-cylinder, and the V6 came with a five-speed automatic.

Although there is nothing fancy about the Kia Rondo, it still manages to overachieve in many areas. Available in two trims, LX and EX, the Rondo is nicely equipped from the base model on up. Even the lowest LX trim comes with important safety features, such as stability control and antilock brakes. Other satisfying standard features include 16-inch wheels, air-conditioning, full power accessories and an audio system with CD player and auxiliary audio jack. A third row of seats is optional on the LX and standard on the EX, which boosts total capacity to seven people.

Moving up to the EX trim level adds 17-inch wheels, leather upholstery, heated seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Other options include a sunroof, a navigation system, an iPod adapter and an upgraded stereo. For '09, leather, heated seats, a navigation system and an iPod interface became available.

In spite of its small size, the Kia Rondo is very functional. With the third-row seating option, the Rondo seats up to seven passengers, though the third row is certainly best suited for children. The second-row seats slide fore and aft, and fold flat in a 60/40 split. The optional third-row seats also fold flat, but in a 50/50 split. And there is no shortage of storage, including 10 cupholders.

In road tests, our editors found the Kia Rondo performed surprisingly well. Both the four-cylinder and V6 engines delivered smooth acceleration. The V6 was particularly responsive, offering punchy acceleration and commendable passing power. Its steering was decent, especially for a tallish family vehicle. Although we'd prefer less body roll, the Rondo never felt tippy. In many everyday situations, such as parking and negotiating traffic, the Rondo could fool you into thinking you were actually in a small car, which was exactly the point.

User Reviews:

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  My Rondo - 2007 Kia Rondo
  By jdjjkj - August 3 - 10:40 am

  My Rondo is so nice to drive and it is great to not be a mini van mom any longer but still have the room. I will miss the cargo room though that my van had if we have 7 passengers. When it is just the four of us and the dog we are comfortable for a long trip.

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  Love My ronda - 2007 Kia Rondo
  By missvicki1 - May 28 - 9:59 am

  I bought my Ronda in October of 2010. Didnt like it at first, but then fell "in love with this car". Every day that I drive this car I love it more. Very good gas mikeage in the city or on the highway. Would recommend this car to anyone. Very good for the money value. I definitely would buy another Kia Rondo.

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  Great family car - 2009 Kia Rondo
  By RRTJAY - May 27 - 3:53 am

  After extensive research and test drives, we decide on the Kia. We are so happy we did! It is a great car to drive and has so much flexibility.

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  Kia Rondo more than I expected - 2007 Kia Rondo
  By Doug MacDonald - May 5 - 7:20 pm

  I wanted a retirement vehicle with good interior space, leg room and a comfortable ride. Researched the Rondo, test drove then ordered it. Just completed a 2500km trip through Rocky Mountains to Alberta, long hills no problem for V6 5 sp. auto trans. Very pleased with the Rondo.

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  Great Car, Greater Price!!! - 2008 Kia Rondo
  By JAGibson - April 29 - 10:30 am

  Bought a 2008 Rondo used, only 16,000 miles got the LX with the V6. Couldnt be happier space inside is great for having car seats, plenty of storage in the back ( I have the 5 seater) Very comfortable to ride, good pick up on the pedal. I dont have the annoying wind noise in the driver side. Just love it!

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  Best Value - 2007 Kia Rondo
  By wsoxman - April 21 - 9:13 am

  I must be the only Rondo owner that has a completely loaded car. Leather, spoiler, I have everything on it including the grown effects, that make the car look much more sporty. $20,800 out the door price. The car has taken 3 2000 mile trips to Arizona. Its the most comfortable riding for long distances. My BMW seats are not as comfortable as the Rondos. The MPG and gas tank size are could be better. The optional Infinite radio upgrade wasnt worth the price.

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  Great First time car - 2008 Kia Rondo
  By cmede - March 16 - 2:48 pm

  I bought this little guy used about 2 weeks ago. I came from a giant Nissan Altima all plush and built for long drives. I got into this Rondo and fell in love instantly! The seats were spacious for my bigger size, the leg room was great and the overall feel of the car felt like quality. I never thought I would buy something that looked like this. I think its not the nicest to look at. It reminds me of a wagon. But the way it grips the corners, gets up to highway speeds and truly is a hoot to drive. I was worried the 4 Cylinders was going to be a problem on the highway. I was mistaken. For my first car that I bought. I recommend it to anyone. It really is quality with the low price.