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This is the PRNDL lever in our 2007 Kia Ronda Long-Term test car. Shortly after the first time I slid it into D and went on my way, I had an immediate reaction to the way it delivered gearchanges. It shifts like....
Nice work, Kia. This transmission blurs shifts seamlessly. The gearchanges aren't exactly blazingly fast, but their smoothness is an unexpected luxury in a car this affordable.
Jason Kavanagh, Engineering Editor @ 3,341 miles
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jriz says:
04:11 PM, 11/19/07
Brilliant.
jr1m90 says:
04:46 PM, 11/19/07
Witty.
And it comes with an manual shift feature. Not sure if that fits the target demographic, but hey, I have to applaud Kia for making that available (now if only the V6 came with a real manual transmission...).
flipb says:
05:17 PM, 11/19/07
...with my obligatory comment on a Rondo article:
I agree that shifts are smooth, although the engine and transmission both seem pretty wonky before they warm up on cold mornings (below 45 or so).
Also, I wish it would downshift more readily. I find myself frequently using the manual mode when I disagree with the gear that Rondo has chosen for me.
hondacura4 says:
07:36 PM, 11/19/07
Keep an eye on Kia and Hyundai.
prosource1 says:
08:46 AM, 11/21/07
Recently rented a Rondo to take my daughter to college. Wow. I am a Honda/Acura/ owner and I gotta tell you that this vehicle sooo reminds me of a Honda or an Acura. Very smooth, above average handling, outstanding build quality and just the right feeling in a vehicle. We had a V6 and received 26mpg for our 1600 miles of traveling. This Kia exceeeded my expectations.