Market Position:
The KIA Rondo (also known as the Carens in some markets) was positioned as a compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) or small minivan, offering practicality and versatility in a more car-like package than traditional minivans. It appealed to families and individuals needing flexible seating and cargo space without the larger footprint of a full-size minivan.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed with vehicles like the Mazda5, Chevrolet HHR, and potentially the lower trims of larger minivans or compact SUVs. Its unique selling proposition was its combination of car-like driving dynamics with MPV functionality.
Key Features:
Flexible seating configurations (often 5 or 7 passenger options), practical interior space, a range of gasoline engines, and a focus on value and reliability.
Coverage Areas:
Vehicle operation, maintenance, safety features, troubleshooting, specifications, warranty information.
Page Count:
Estimated 400-500 pages (typical for an owner's manual of this era and vehicle type).
Manual Type:
Owner's Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Satisfaction Guarantee:
30-day money-back guarantee
Expert Usage:
Same manual used by experts and technicians for reference on operation and basic maintenance.
Systems Covered:
Engine operation, fuel system, cooling system, lubrication, ignition system, exhaust system, transmission (automatic), brakes, steering, suspension, climate control, electrical system (lighting, instruments, audio), interior features, exterior features, safety systems (airbags, seatbelts), driver controls, instrument panel, warnings and indicators.
Procedures Included:
Starting and driving, parking, checking fluids, changing tires, jump starting, using lights and wipers, operating climate control, adjusting seats and mirrors, using infotainment system, basic troubleshooting for dashboard warning lights, emergency procedures, maintenance schedule overview.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive overview for the vehicle owner. Focuses on safe operation, routine maintenance, and understanding vehicle features. Does not typically include in-depth repair procedures or diagnostic codes typically found in service or repair manuals.
Repair Coverage Level:
Focuses on owner-level maintenance and understanding; does not provide in-depth repair instructions or diagnostic procedures typically found in factory service manuals.
Primary Engine:
2.4L Inline-4 (G4KC)
Horsepower:
Approximately 162 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
Approximately 163 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel System:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Economy City:
Approximately 18-20 MPG (varies by driving conditions and specific vehicle)
Fuel Economy Highway:
Approximately 25-27 MPG (varies by driving conditions and specific vehicle)
Displacement:
2359 cc (2.4 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
87.0 mm x 97.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Length:
Approximately 174.5 inches (4432 mm)
Width:
Approximately 70.9 inches (1801 mm)
Height:
Approximately 63.4 inches (1610 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 104.0 inches (2642 mm)
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Approximately 7.2 cubic feet (with seats folded).
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
Approximately 31.6 cubic feet (with 3rd row folded).
Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:
Approximately 63.1 cubic feet (with 2nd and 3rd rows folded).
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3,300 - 3,500 lbs (1497 - 1588 kg).
Seating Capacity:
5 or 7 passengers, depending on configuration.
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (for driver and front passenger in testing of similar models/years).
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for models tested).
Active Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Brake Assist (BA).
Passive Features:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags (for all rows), active front headrests, pretensioners for front seatbelts, LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.
Seatbelt Features:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front seats, adjustable head restraints.
Infotainment Features:
Standard audio system with AM/FM radio, CD player, and MP3 capability. Optional SiriusXM Satellite Radio. Auxiliary audio input jack.
Display Type:
Standard single-line or multi-line LCD display for audio and clock. Optional color displays on higher trims.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control. Limited driver-assistance technologies compared to modern vehicles.
Connectivity Features:
Auxiliary audio input. Bluetooth capability was not standard on all trims for this model year and might have been an optional feature or dealer-installed accessory.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Severe conditions may require more frequent changes. Refer to the manual for detailed definitions of driving conditions.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Recommended every 7,500 miles (12,000 km).
Air Filter Replacement:
Check every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Typically recommended every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as per manual guidance.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Iridium spark plugs typically have a service life of around 100,000 miles (160,000 km).
Brake Fluid Flush Interval:
Typically every 2-3 years or 30,000-45,000 miles (48,000-72,000 km), refer to manual for specific recommendation.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SM or higher, SAE 5W-20 (check manual for specific viscosity recommendations based on climate).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change for the 2.4L engine.
Transmission Fluid Specification:
KIA SPIII Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) or equivalent.
Coolant Specification:
Propylene Glycol based coolant, meeting specific KIA specifications. Typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Refer to manual, typically an ATF compatible fluid or specific power steering fluid. Kia generally recommends checking levels and topping off with the specified fluid.
Common Issues:
Potential for minor electrical gremlins, HVAC system issues (blower motor, blend doors), and occasional wear on suspension components. The 2.4L engine is generally considered reliable. Some reports of oil consumption might occur on higher mileage vehicles.
Brand Heritage:
Kia Motors Corporation, established in 1944, has a history rooted in manufacturing steel tubing and bicycle parts before venturing into automotive production in the late 1960s. The brand has seen significant growth and global expansion, known for offering value-oriented vehicles with improving quality and design.
Model Evolution:
The Rondo is based on KIA's global platform and is closely related to the Kia Optima sedan. The first generation (Un-badged in North America as 'Rondo') was introduced in 2006. The 2009 model represents a mid-cycle refresh for the first generation, with updated styling, features, and potentially minor powertrain enhancements. The Rondo/Carens nameplate has continued through subsequent generations in global markets.
Generation:
First Generation (2006-2012)
Production Years:
First Generation: 2006-2012 (with a significant refresh in 2008 for the 2009 model year).
Manufacturing Location:
Primary manufacturing plant was in Hwasung, South Korea.