I'm always a little surprised when I fire up the Rondo's engine and find that this Kia leaps into action with the eagerness of, um, a car that doesn't look like a dull compromise. As many times as I've driven it, you'd think I'd know what to expect. But the Rondo just looks so darn functional; it always lulls me into anticipating the very worst.
Acceleration from the V6 is enjoyably quick. The 5-speed automatic transmission is a pleasure as well, with fluid shifts that keep things creamy smooth. Nice choice if you're looking for a roomy family hauler that won't leave you in Snoozeville when you're behind the wheel.
Warren Clarke, Automotive Content Editor @ 16,371 miles
orangutan says:
10:40 PM, 07/30/08
How's the fuel economy coming along since May?
jason25 says:
07:43 AM, 08/ 1/08
Everyone always mentions how the V6 is surprisingly quick in the Rondo, but when it comes to the V6 Optima which has the same engine, they always say that it is underpowered. I guess its all relative...
carfreak8394 says:
09:43 AM, 08/ 1/08
jason25,
I think the reason they say this is because 172 horsepower for a V6 family sedan isn't very much compared to the Accord, Camry, Aura. etc.
Just a guess though.
jason25 says:
07:29 AM, 08/ 2/08
Actually carfreak, its rated at 185 in the Optima, but I get your point...
ramblinmo says:
06:41 PM, 10/17/08
I'm been pretty happy with the 4 cylinder and love the lack of a timing belt to change at 90K. I took a 6000 mile trip with 400? pounds of gear. had a number of tanks in 32 to 33 mpg. Non trip average is around 25, lots of AC use 23 mpg. My first car 30 years ago, a Volkswagon bug averaged 26mpg, and I couldn't sleep 2 in the back.
I never stomp on it or drive aggressively and do very little stop and go driving. It has more than enough power in my opinion.
2007 EX, moon roof, 5 seater.
Most unhappy with? - High cost, limited options on replacement tires.
subaru123 says:
06:16 AM, 08/28/09
IGNORE THIS POST I'M JUST SEEING IF THIS LINK WORKS.
file:///C:/Documents%20and%20Settings/Owner/My%20Documents/You%20Write%20the%20Caption_files/slide0001.htm