We drove top of the line Rondo EX which features crisp, pleasing lines, highlighted both front and back by contemporary head and tail light clusters. While 16-inch alloy wheels are standard on the LX version, 17-inch alloys with low-profile tires come on the EX trim level as does a power, tilt-sliding moon roof. All levels come with the integral, adjustable roof rack.
There are two power train choices for the FWD Rondo.: a 2.4 liter DOHC four that produces 162 horsepower and 164 pounds feet of torque, that comes with a four-speed automatic transmission and a 2.7 liter V-6 that generates 182 horsepower and 182 pounds feet of torque that comes equipped with a five-speed transmission that can also be sequentially shifted.
The four cylinder delivers an EPA estimated 21 City/29 Highway while the V-6 is slightly less efficient at 20 City and 27 Highway.
Braking is provided by power-assisted ABS four-wheel disc brakes with electronic stability control standard.
Maximum seating capacity on our test Rondo was seven with access to the third row seats via tilt and sliding second row seats. Fold flat, third row and 60/40 split second-row seats allow up to 31.7 cubic feet of cargo space.
Standard cloth seats include headrests in all positions. A leather wrapped adjustable steering wheel is standard on the EX models with heated-leather trimmed seats optional. Dual-stage front airbags are standard as are front-seat mounted side airbags, and full length, side curtain airbags.
Our test Rondo also came equipped with the optional Infinity digital audio system that includes an in-dash disc changer, AM/FM/MP3 player and 10 speakers.
MSRP for the base Kia Rondo is 16,395 with our fully-loaded EX V-6 stickering at $22,895. All trim levels come with 10-year/100,000 mile power train and 5-year/60,000 mile limited warranty, making the 07 Kia Ronda a must see when you're shopping for a new, admittedly "down-size" SUV.