2009 Kia Rondo: Road Test
2009 Kia Rondo ▼
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- MSRP: $17,495 - $22,295
- Invoice: $16,675 - $20,865
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Our road test for the 2009 Kia Rondo includes a full evaluation of the 2009 Kia Rondo from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2009 Kia Rondo, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2009 Kia Rondo help you decide if a 2009 Kia Rondo is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| EX 4-cylinder | EX V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 5 | 5.4 |
With the 4-cylinder engine, Rondo has adequate power from a stop, but it struggles to gather speed for highway passing and merging. The V6 is modestly more potent around town and at highway speeds, but it could use more mid-range power.
FUEL ECONOMY
| EX 4-cylinder | EX V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.6 |
In Consumer Guide testing, V6 Rondos averaged 23.2 mpg in mostly highway driving. Our extended-use EX V6 averaged 21.0 mpg over the course of its 12,668-mile evaluation. No opportunity to measure with the 4-cylinder. Rondo uses regular-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| EX 4-cylinder | EX V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 |
Rondo's ride is composed and comfortable, even over larger road imperfections. Some float is noticeable at highway speeds.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| EX 4-cylinder | EX V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.9 |
Rondo handles like the midsize front-drive wagon it is. Handling is more than competent with direct steering, though Rondo exhibits body lean in fast corners.
QUIETNESS
| EX 4-cylinder | EX V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 6 |
Occupants are well isolated from road and wind noise. The 4-cylinder engine sounds coarse at moderate to full throttle. The more refined V6 is less intrusive overall.
CONTROLS
| EX 4-cylinder | EX V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.3 |
The large gauges are easily read. Major controls are logically placed. No opportunity to evaluate a Rondo with the navigation system.
DETAILS
| EX 4-cylinder | EX V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.5 |
Cabin materials and assembly quality are good for the price. The LCD clock can be hard to read in some lighting conditions, and the dome light illuminates the rear seat area but leaves the front in the dark. Our extended-use Rondo suffered no mechanical malfunctions and remained tight and rattle free the entire time it was with us. Toward the end of its yearlong evaluation, however, the leather upholstery and interior carpeting started to look a bit worn, which has us somewhat concerned about its durability further down the road.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| EX 4-cylinder | EX V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.7 |
Ample legroom. The high roof, chair-height seats, and large glass area gives the cabin a spacious, airy feel. Generally good visibility, though thick rear roof pillars obscure the view over the shoulders.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| EX 4-cylinder | EX V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.1 |
Good headroom and legroom. The large doors aid entry and exit but are cumbersome in tight parking spots. Second-row seat splits 60/40 and adjusts fore and aft on models with the optional 3rd-row. Rear-most seats are easy to access with the 2nd-row fully forward and offer tolerable short-trip comfort for two adults.
CARGO ROOM
| EX 4-cylinder | EX V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 4.1 |
The large rear opening and low load floor make the most of available space, though the hatch doesn't rise far enough for six-footers to stand beneath without stooping. Third and 2nd-row seats fold flat, as does front passenger seat, forming 8 continuous feet of cargo space. Below-floor bins in models without the 3rd-row seat provide handy small-item storage. The glovebox has adequate space, but the two-tiered center console is too small for anything other than a few CDs.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| EX 4-cylinder | EX V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 10 | 6.3 |
Kia calls Rondo a crossover, but its car-like design and lack of available all-wheel drive land it squarely in the wagon camp. As such, its roomy interior, flexible cargo accommodations, and attractive pricing make Rondo a Best Buy alternative to traditional midsize sedans and crossover SUVs.
Total Score
| EX 4-cylinder | EX V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 66 | 70 | 62.9 |
Total Score: 68
Scores for all Midsize Cars
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