Vehicle Segment:
Compact MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) / Crossover
Target Audience:
Families and individuals seeking versatile, practical, and affordable transportation.
Key Competitors:
Toyota Matrix, Ford Focus, Mazda5, Dodge Caliber.
Rondo Advantage:
Offers a more spacious and flexible interior compared to traditional hatchbacks, often at a competitive price point.
Body Style:
5-door hatchback/MPV with a tall roofline.
Seating Capacity:
Standard 5-seater, with optional 7-seater configurations in some markets.
Versatility:
Foldable rear seats for ample cargo space.
Manual Purpose:
Empower owners and technicians with detailed information for maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing system.
Engine Performance:
Fuel injection system, ignition system, emission control systems, cooling system, lubrication system.
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (4-speed), torque converter, hydraulic control, electronic controls, servicing, overhaul.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive, driveshafts, CV joints, differential.
Suspension:
Front suspension (MacPherson struts), rear suspension (multi-link), shock absorbers, springs, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system (hydraulic), steering rack, steering column, troubleshooting.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, ABS system, parking brake, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.
Body Exterior:
Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, glass, trim, paint and corrosion protection.
Body Interior:
Seats, dashboard, door panels, headliner, carpets, climate control system, interior trim removal and installation.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, refrigerant, maintenance, troubleshooting.
Safety Restraints:
Airbags, seatbelts, SRS system components, diagnostic procedures.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, inspections.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation for all major systems.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides for common and complex issues.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor testing, module diagnostics.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.
Specifications Torque:
Torque specifications for all critical fasteners and components.
Specifications Clearances:
Engine and chassis component clearances and tolerances.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive Workshop Level
Detail Level:
Includes detailed diagnostic procedures, component overhaul, and complex repair instructions.
Length:
174.7 inches (4437 mm)
Width:
68.3 inches (1735 mm)
Height:
63.2 inches (1605 mm)
Wheelbase:
104.3 inches (2650 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 5.7 inches (145 mm)
Passenger Volume:
Approx. 97.1 cubic feet (2750 liters)
Cargo Volume Seats Up:
Approx. 15.0 - 31.4 cubic feet (425 - 890 liters) depending on configuration
Cargo Volume Seats Down:
Approx. 66.5 cubic feet (1885 liters)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3250 - 3350 lbs (1474 - 1519 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4500 - 4600 lbs (2041 - 2087 kg)
Towing Capacity:
Not officially recommended for towing
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
5-star (driver), 5-star (passenger) - 2008 Model Year
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:
Good (2008 Model Year)
IIHS Side Impact Crash Test:
Good (2008 Model Year)
Anti Lock Brakes:
Standard (ABS)
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard (ESC)
Traction Control:
Standard (TCS)
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, full-length side curtain airbags (standard on many trims).
Seatbelts:
3-point height-adjustable front seatbelts with pretensioners, LATCH child seat anchors.
Child Safety:
Child-proof rear door locks, LATCH system.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (depending on driving conditions).
Engine Air Filter:
Replace every 30,000-45,000 miles (48,000-72,000 km).
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000-20,000 miles (24,000-32,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) (NGK Iridium recommended).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), replace every 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) or as per manual recommendation.
Coolant Change:
Initial change at 100,000 miles (160,000 km), then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30, API SM or higher.
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.9 quarts (4.6 liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Amine-inhibited, ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (e.g., Hyundai/Kia Super Long Life Coolant).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Hyundai/Kia Genuine Power Steering Fluid or equivalent ATF SP-III.
Engine Issues:
Occasional oil consumption, potential for valve cover gasket leaks.
Transmission Issues:
Some reports of rough shifting or premature wear on earlier models, though generally reliable.
Suspension Issues:
Worn sway bar links, strut mounts, and control arm bushings can lead to knocking noises.
Electrical Issues:
Minor electrical gremlins, such as power window regulators or door lock actuators.
HVAC Issues:
Blend door actuator failures causing HVAC issues.
Kia Motors:
Founded in 1944, Kia is South Korea's oldest manufacturer of motor vehicles. Known for value and improving quality.
First Generation:
Introduced in 2006 (as a 2007 model in North America).
Second Generation:
The 2008 model represents the first generation of the Rondo (UN chassis).
Facelift:
A minor facelift occurred for the 2009 model year, with more significant redesigns in subsequent generations.
Production Location:
Hwasung Plant, South Korea.
Production Years:
2006-2012 (First Generation).