2008 Kia Rondo Consumer Reviews

A great MPV (multi-purpose vehicle)

Written by: conwelpic on 06/15/2008

Vehicle

2008 Kia Rondo EX 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl 4A)

Review

“The Power to Surprise” the KIA slogan and its sure worked for me. The utility of this vehicle is incredible and can’t fault the fit and finish. It’s a very efficient design with an amazing amount of space inside for such a compact exterior package. With the chair like seating, outstanding visibility through the large side windows, it’s a joy to drive. The performance of the 4-cylinder never fails to impress me (it outperforms the 2.8L V6 on my previous vehicle) and provides great economy and very smooth shifts. I also noticed that even though it’s a tall vehicle it is not as susceptible to wind as much as my previous vehicle that was 10” shorter.

Favorite Features

So many, it’s hard to pick, but with going through a harsh winter the heated seats, heated side mirrors and windshield de-icer (how many cars have that?). Fit and finish, great standard stereo with auxiliary jack, storage, safety features, economy, visibility, performance, comfort.

Suggested Improvements

Nothing major - Put back the items they had on the 2007 model that they removed for 2008. Rear overhead cargo light operates with tailgate; drop the roof rails; rear intermittent wipers, USB port.

7 out 7 people found this review helpful

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Great for the price

Written by: bjfails on 04/29/2008

Vehicle

2008 Kia Rondo LX 4dr Wagon w/AC (2.4L 4cyl 4A)

Review

Great vehicle for a small family car, seats are a bit small but not uncomfortable. Lots of room for kids to stretch without burring knees into back of seat. Two row has a lot of storage options. Nice pep off the line but lags above 50 mph. Exterior doesn't command a lot of attention, but doesn't repel the date for the evening either.

Favorite Features

Auto Stick, Aux input, and Storage area

Suggested Improvements

Larger front seats and make them electric, add overhead temp and compass

19 out 19 people found this review helpful

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A real sleeper!

Written by: Chip on 04/15/2008

Vehicle

2008 Kia Rondo EX 4dr Wagon (2.7L 6cyl 5A)

Review

The Rondo is a well put-together small car that feels bigger on the road that it really is: the V-6 engine is very quiet, the transmission shifts smoothly, and the amount of room for 5 passengers is simply amazing. I'm 6'5", and the Rondo has plenty of head, shoulder and leg room for me and a 6' passenger riding behind me. Maybe it won't set you heart on fire, but it sure gets the job done without any fuss.

Favorite Features

Amazing headroom: it's like sitting in a cathedral! Very quiet and smooth ride, excellent visibility, lots of safety features (six airbags, ABS, Traction Control and ESC) I still can't believe how they can do it for the money that they charge

Suggested Improvements

Tinted rear windows and a power seat for the driver would be nice, Orange instrument lighting could use more contrast. Averaging about 20 MPG with the V6: more is always better.

26 out 26 people found this review helpful

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Wow ...Rondo...What??

Written by: C Neumann on 04/08/2008

Vehicle

2008 Kia Rondo LX 4dr Wagon w/AC (2.4L 4cyl 4A)

Review

The 2008 Kia Rondo is a pleasant surprise. We considered a Matrix or Vibe but the Rondo won the day. Its clearly a great value. The quality of the Rondo is impressive. Kia has grown up here and can compete with the big boys. Good work Kia! The utility, roominess and ride of the Rondo is impressive. Seven seats in this size of car is amazing. The car does what it's supposed to, has all kinds of bells and whistles (the heated seats are nice) and the price can't be beat. Great for small families who don't like big 'mini' vans. The 4cyl engine and transmission are more than adequate. I'm looking forward to seeing how the quality of this vehicle holds up over time.

Favorite Features

Overall quality. Everything seems solid and fits well. Seven seats, lots of storage when seats folded down. Stereo is decent, auxiliary jack in console is neat. Heated front seats. Upright seating position and great visibility.

Suggested Improvements

Cutesy exterior needs some racing edges. A sports version would be interesting. First gear may be too small - spinning tires! Maybe I'll get used to it.

24 out 25 people found this review helpful

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