We averaged 21.0 mpg over 14,700 miles in our test 2007 Kia Rondo EX V6.

­The Kia Rondo gets extra playing time in Consumer Guide's extended-use test program. For the next several months, Consumer Guide will evaluate this front-wheel-drive wagon to determine how this value-priced, roomy, 7-passenger midsize car holds up against other vehicles in the class.

About the 2007 Kia Rondo

Sandwiched between the Spectra5 hatchback and Sorento SUV, the Rondo is a five-passenger wagon, with an optional third row for extra seating, which Kia likes to call a crossover vehicle. Is it a car? Is it an alternative to an SUV? Is there any reason to choose Rondo over a Mazda 5 or a Toyota RAV4?

These are questions better left unanswered until we spend some quality time in our test vehicle. Whether it's a wagon or SUV alternative, the Kia Rondo is worth a closer look and more-detailed evaluation.

Safety and Powertrain

Safety features on our test EX model include front side airbags, curtain side airbags, ABS, traction control, and an antiskid system. Our test Rondo is equipped with a 182-horsepower 2.7-liter V6 engine. It is only offered with automatic transmission. Our test model V6 includes a 5-speed automatic. Four-cylinder versions get a 4-speed automatic.

Kia refers to Rondo as a crossover vehicle because of its wagon styling and 7-passenger seating ability.

With a 3,300 pound curb weight, Rondo feels lighter than most compact SUVs. Our tester is equipped with a V6 and a 2007 EPA rating of 20/27 city/highway mpg. We'll see how this rating holds up throughout our real-world fuel-economy testing during Rondo's extended stay.

Creature Comforts

Our test EX model adds air conditioning, leather-wrapped steering wheel, cruise control, heated power mirrors and remote keyless entry. Passenger seating is generous thanks to a high roof and available third-row seating. Both the second and third rows fold to increase cargo capacity. The two-person bench in the third row is adequate for smaller passengers.

Instruments and controls are solid and easily accessible. The interior materials and assembly are also impressive for the price. The Kia Rondo enters the market with a base price of $16,395 for a 4-cylinder LX. Our test EX model starts at $20,195 and features standards like air conditioning, cruise control, heated power mirrors, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, remote keyless entry with alarm, and roof rails.

Rondo's second and third rows fold flat for holding cargo.

Added luxury options include the $1,000 Leather Package (leather upholstery and heated front seats), $1,200 Premium Package (power sunroof and 6 Disc CD/MP3 changer), and the $500 third row. Add a destination fee of $600 and our test Rondo EX totaled out at $23,495.

Initial Thoughts

Our initial thoughts on the Rondo EX are promising. Short-term evaluations led to a fuel-economy average of 20.4 mpg. Our long-term testers is averaging 21.0 mpg. Rondo's cargo capacity and passenger carrying versatility are its high points. Pricing is another strong suit compared to other vehicles in the midsize car class. Power was underwhelming in the 4-cylinder version, however, and the lack of all-wheel-drive makes it difficult to compare Rondo with other SUVs. Our long-term V6 solves the power problem.

The verdict is still out, but overall, the Kia Rondo looks and acts the part of a bargain midsize car with a flair for utility. Our impressions thus far have been almost universally positive, with the carlike handling and the roomy, flexible interior among Rondo's strongest attributes. There have been a few minor quibbles, like the dome light that leaves front seat occupants in the dark and the clock can be hard to read in some light conditions. With a year of traumatic Chicago weather in its future, it'll be interesting to see how Rondo holds up for the long haul.

Our test Rondo EX's final price was $23,495.