Vehicle Segment:
Compact MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) / Crossover Utility Vehicle
Target Demographic:
Families, individuals seeking versatility and practicality in a smaller footprint.
Key Competitors:
Mazda 5, Chevrolet HHR, potentially smaller SUVs like the Toyota RAV4 or Honda CR-V.
Vehicle Design:
Distinctive crossover-like styling for an MPV, offering a blend of car-like handling and SUV practicality.
Interior Flexibility:
Flexible seating arrangements, often with a third-row option in some configurations, and ample cargo space.
Powertrain Offering:
Focus on fuel-efficient and reliable powertrains suitable for daily driving and family use.
Diy Support:
Empowers owners and independent mechanics to perform a wide range of maintenance and repair tasks, saving on dealership costs.
Diagnostic Accuracy:
Provides the technical depth necessary for accurate diagnosis and efficient repair of complex systems.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, valve train, pistons, crankshaft, lubrication system, cooling system, intake manifold, exhaust manifold.
Engine Performance:
Fuel injection, ignition system, emission control, engine diagnostics, troubleshooting.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission assembly, torque converter, gear sets, hydraulic controls, electronic controls, fluid specifications, troubleshooting, repair.
Chassis Systems:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS, EBD), wheel alignment.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, gauges, power windows, locks, mirrors, wiper/washer system.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning system operation, components, refrigerant, troubleshooting, repair.
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, seats, safety restraints (airbags, seatbelts), sound insulation.
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures, fault codes (DTCs), wiring diagrams, component testing.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, repair, reassembly, and installation for all major systems.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic flowcharts and tables to identify and resolve common and uncommon vehicle issues.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle circuits.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostic information, including sensor data interpretation and ECU function.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft)
Displacement:
2359 cc (2.4 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
87.0 mm x 97.0 mm (Approximate)
Compression Ratio:
9.5:1 (Typical)
Horsepower Max:
175 hp @ 6000 rpm (Approximate)
Torque Max:
169 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (Approximate)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI - Multi-Point Injection)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Recommended Octane:
87 octane (Regular)
Valve Train:
DOHC, 16 valves (4 valves per cylinder)
Timing System:
Timing Chain (typically)
Length:
4525 mm (178.1 in)
Height:
1640 mm (64.6 in)
Wheelbase:
2650 mm (104.3 in)
Curb Weight Est:
1500 - 1600 kg (3307 - 3527 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:
2070 kg (4564 lbs) (Approximate)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
N/A (Typically presented as maximum capacity with seats folded)
Cargo Volume Max:
Approx. 15.7 - 24.1 cubic feet (behind 2nd row, depending on configuration) / Up to 66.7 cubic feet (with 2nd and 3rd rows folded)
Seating Capacity:
5 or 7 passengers (depending on configuration)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5-Star (for 2008 model year, some configurations)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5-Star (for 2008 model year, some configurations)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:
5-Star (for 2008 model year, some configurations)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:
4-Star (for 2008 model year, some configurations)
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4-Star (for 2008 model year, some configurations)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution
Traction Control:
Often available or standard depending on trim
Electronic Stability Control Esc:
Often available or standard depending on trim
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, available side curtain airbags for all rows.
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters, LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system.
Audio System:
Standard CD player with AM/FM radio, auxiliary input jack. Optional upgrades often included SiriusXM satellite radio and enhanced speaker systems.
Navigation:
Optional factory-installed navigation system was available on higher trim levels.
Parking Assist:
Optional rear parking sensors.
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free connectivity became more common in this era, availability depends on trim.
Keyless Entry:
Standard on most trims, remote keyless entry.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months (severe driving conditions) / Every 7,500 miles or 12 months (normal driving conditions).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Engine Coolant Replacement:
Initial replacement at 60,000 miles or 48 months, then every 30,000 miles or 24 months thereafter.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 60,000 miles or 48 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 105,000 miles (Iridium type).
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-20, API SM or higher (meeting ILSAC GF-4).
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) with filter change.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
Kia Genuine Power Steering Fluid (or equivalent DEXRON-III ATF)
Common Engine Issues:
Occasional reports of oil leaks from valve cover gasket, potential for carbon buildup in intake valves (though less common than direct injection engines).
Common Transmission Issues:
Some instances of harsh shifting or delayed engagement, often related to transmission fluid condition or solenoid issues.
Common Suspension Issues:
Wear in suspension bushings and ball joints over time, leading to clunking noises or steering looseness.
Common Electrical Issues:
Minor electrical gremlins, such as issues with power window motors or interior lighting, are not uncommon with age.
Kia History:
Kia Motors Corporation, founded in 1944, is South Korea's oldest manufacturer of motor vehicles. Known for its value-oriented and increasingly stylish and feature-rich vehicles.
Rondo Generation 1:
The Kia Rondo (also known as Kia Carens in some markets) was first introduced globally in 1999. The second generation (2006-2013) is where the Rondo nameplate became more prominent in North America. The 2008 model falls within this second generation.
Rondo Design Philosophy:
Designed to bridge the gap between sedans and larger SUVs/minivans, offering practicality and a raised driving position.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in South Korea (Hwaseong) and other Kia facilities globally.
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
The Kia Rondo has received good safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA in various tests for its model years, often earning 'Good' or 'Acceptable' in crashworthiness tests.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Consumer Reports typically rated the Rondo as average to above average for its class, with specific model year reviews highlighting its practicality and value.
Kelley Blue Book Value:
The Rondo was generally seen as a value-for-money proposition, offering more features and space for the price compared to some competitors.