Segment:
Compact MPV / Crossover
Target Audience:
Families, individuals seeking versatile and practical transportation.
Key Competitors:
Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey (though Rondo is smaller), Mazda5, Chevrolet Orlando.
Body Style:
Compact MPV with optional third-row seating.
Powertrain Options:
Available with 4-cylinder and 6-cylinder engines.
Practicality:
Focus on interior space, versatility, and family-friendly features.
Engine Mechanical:
Full coverage: Engine assembly, disassembly, rebuild, internal components (pistons, rings, bearings, crankshaft, camshafts, valves, cylinder head, block)
Engine Lubrication:
Oil pump, oil filter, oil passages, lubrication system diagnostics and repair
Engine Cooling:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant passages, cooling fan system, hoses, diagnosis and repair
Engine Fuel:
Fuel injectors, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel filter, fuel pressure regulator, fuel system diagnosis and repair
Engine Ignition:
Spark plugs, ignition coils, wiring, ignition timing, ignition system diagnosis and repair
Engine Intake Exhaust:
Intake manifold, throttle body, exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, emission controls (EGR, PCV)
Engine Management:
ECU/ECM operation, sensor inputs/outputs, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), engine control strategies
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspection and replacement
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common engine issues, drivability problems, no-start conditions
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component replacement, system overhaul, and major engine repairs
Rebuild:
Detailed procedures for complete engine rebuilds, including torque specifications, clearances, and assembly sequences
Diagnostics:
Use of scan tools, interpretation of live data, testing of sensors and actuators
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from routine maintenance to complete engine disassembly and reassembly, including detailed specifications and troubleshooting charts.
Engine Type:
V6, Naturally Aspirated
Displacement:
2.7 Liters (2656 cc)
Valvetrain:
DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft), 24 Valves (4 per cylinder)
Bore X Stroke:
Specific data not provided, but typical for this displacement
Compression Ratio:
Typical around 10.0:1 to 10.5:1
Horsepower:
Approximately 180-190 HP (actual figures vary slightly by market/tune)
Torque:
Approximately 250-260 Nm (actual figures vary slightly by market/tune)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Emission Control:
Meets relevant emissions standards for the model year (e.g., Euro 4/5, EPA).
Transmission Type:
Automatic
Gears:
Likely 6-speed automatic transmission (6AT)
Transmission Type:
Manual Transmission (less common for this engine variant)
Gears:
Likely 6-speed manual transmission (6MT)
Drivetrain:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Specific fluid type would be listed in the manual (e.g., ATF SP-IV or equivalent)
Length:
Approx. 4,480 mm (176.4 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,800 mm (70.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,630 mm (64.2 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,700 mm (106.3 in)
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Limited, typical for compact MPVs (e.g., 10-15 cu ft)
Cargo Volume With 3Rd Row Folded:
Significantly increased, offering good utility.
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,600 - 1,700 kg (3,527 - 3,748 lbs), depending on trim and features.
NHTSA Overall Rating:
Specific ratings for 2012 model may vary by region and testing protocols.
IIHS Ratings:
Specific ratings for 2012 model may vary by region and testing protocols.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Esc:
Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Front airbags, side-impact airbags, curtain airbags (depending on trim).
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system.
Head Unit:
Standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with auxiliary input. Optional upgrades could include touchscreen navigation and Bluetooth connectivity.
Audio System:
Typically a 6-speaker audio system. Higher trims might offer premium audio.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Rear Parking Sensors:
Available as an option or on higher trim levels.
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free connectivity.
Usb Aux Inputs:
Standard auxiliary audio input. USB port may be optional.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Manual will specify.
Air Filter Replacement:
Recommended every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km) depending on spark plug type (e.g., iridium plugs).
Coolant Flush Interval:
Initial flush at 60,000 miles (96,000 km), then every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years thereafter.
Engine Oil Type:
Likely 5W-20 or 5W-30 synthetic oil, meeting API SN or ILSAC GF-5 standards. Refer to manual for exact specification.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.5 - 5.0 liters (4.8 - 5.3 quarts) with filter change. Refer to manual for exact capacity.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, typically a long-life pink or orange formulation. Refer to manual for specific color/type.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Refer to manual for exact specification.
Potential Issues:
While not universal, some common issues reported on Kia models of this era can include minor electrical gremlins, early wear on certain suspension components, and occasional transmission solenoids. The 2.7L V6 is generally considered robust.
Maintenance Tips:
Regularly inspect drive belts for wear, check coolant levels frequently, and ensure proper engine oil changes to maximize longevity of the 2.7L engine.
Manufacturer:
Kia Motors Corporation
First Generation Release:
Carens (MPV) first introduced in 1999.
Second Generation Release:
2006
Third Generation Release Codenamed Un:
2006 (as Rondo in North America, Carens elsewhere)
Facelift Updates:
The 2012 model year represents a significant refresh/mid-cycle update for the UN generation, including potential styling and feature enhancements.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily South Korea, with potential assembly in other Kia facilities globally.
Industry Accolades:
The Kia Rondo/Carens has often been recognized for its value, practicality, and generous warranty, particularly in its segments.
Consumer Reports:
Consumer Reports ratings would need to be checked for specific year and model, but generally Kia has seen improving reliability scores over the years.
Quality Standards:
Manufactured to meet ISO quality standards.