The smoothly styled, solidly built Rondo comes in LX form for $16,395
to $18,895 and in higher-line EX trim for $19,195 to $20,195. You can't dream Ferrari dreams with the Kia Rondo. The roomy, mid-size Rondo is all about sensibility, especially with its optional ($500) third-row seat. That seat is mainly suited to children but also offers short-trip comfort to adults.
The front-wheel-drive Rondo can't be called a crossover vehicle because it lacks all-wheel drive. (Crossovers are car-based but have SUV features such as all-wheel drive.) Rather, the Rondo can be referred to as a station wagon or small minivan with four conventional side doors, like the first Honda Odyssey minivan.
Seating flexibility is a Rondo strong point because the second-row seat folds completely forward and the third-row seatbacks fold flat. So does the first-row passenger seatback if extra-long objects must be carried.
Five-passenger seating is standard, with an especially roomy second-row seat area. Seven fit with the third-row seat. The second-row seat slides fore and aft when the Rondo has the third seat, which is fairly easy to reach.
Cargo space is good with two seating rows, but there's scant cargo room with the third seatbacks in their upright position.
The smoothly styled, solidly built Rondo comes in LX form for $16,395 to $18,895 and in higher-line EX trim for $19,195 to $20,195.
All versions are offered with a four-cylinder or V-6 engine, with the V-6 being the best choice.
The LX is fairly well-equipped, with such items as a tilt wheel, console, AM/FM/CD player, variable intermittent wipers, rear defogger and wiper/washer -- and power windows, mirrors and door locks. Air conditioning is standard with the V-6, optional with the four-cylinder.
Besides "air," the EX adds cruise control, heated power mirrors, remote keyless entry, illuminated visor mirrors, AM/FM/CD/MP3 player and leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls.
The EX also has larger 17-inch (vs. 16-inch) wheels and wider 50-series (vs. 60-series) tires for more road grip, but a slightly less comfortable ride.
Safety features -- especially important in a family-oriented vehicle -- include anti-lock disc brakes, electronic stability control, tire pressure monitoring system and six air bags, including front-side and curtain-side bags.
Tempting options include a $1,000 EX Leather Package with leather upholstery and heated front seats and a $1,200 EX Premium Package with a power sunroof and Infinity AM/FM radio with an in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer.
Both the LX and EX are available with a 2.4-liter, 162-horsepower four-cylinder or a more refined 2.7-liter, 182-horsepower V-6 with additional torque. Acceleration is average with the four-cylinder, but much stronger with the V-6, which provides decent 65-75 mph highway passing.
The four-cylinder works with a four-speed automatic, while the V-6 is hooked to a more versatile five-speed automatic.
However, the four-cylinder delivers an estimated 21 mpg in the city and 29 on highways, while the V-6 provides 20 and 27. Only regular-grade fuel is needed for either engine.
The nimble Rondo is enjoyable to drive, with direct steering, competent handling and a firm-but-supple ride. Even the brake pedal has a nice feel. However, some body lean in fast curves warns that this is not a sports-oriented vehicle.
A large glass area, high seats and tall roof provide the spacious interior with an airy feel. Large outside mirrors provide good rear driver visibility.
Large outside door handles assist entry to the quiet, nicely done interior. But long doors can be awkward in tight spots. Front seats are fairly supportive in curves, but the stylish gauges should be easier to read.
Audio and climate system controls are commendably large, and dual front cupholders are positioned to avoid spills. There's also a large "dead pedal" on which a driver can rest the left foot during long trips.
Rear windows lower all the way, and all doors have storage pockets and bottle holders.
The cargo area opening is low, large and wide, and the tailgate has a substantial handle to help close it without getting hands dirty on outside sheet metal.
The attractively priced Rondo isn't one of the most distinctive looking vehicles, but it's not the sort of thing you buy to show off.
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