Segment:
Compact MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) / Crossover
Target Audience:
Families, individuals seeking practicality and versatility in a compact package.
Key Competitors:
Dodge Caliber, Toyota Matrix, Ford Focus Wagon, Mazda5 (though larger).
Versatility:
Flexible seating arrangements, ample cargo space, higher driving position than a typical sedan.
Value Proposition:
Offers practicality and a range of features at a competitive price point.
Manual Benefit:
Empowers owners to perform maintenance and repairs, saving on labor costs and increasing vehicle lifespan.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, lubrication, cooling system, exhaust system, engine management, torque converter, transmission (automatic).
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (hydraulic and mechanical components), wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system, instruments and gauges, horn, wipers and washers, climate control, power windows, power door locks, audio system, SRS (airbag) system, anti-theft system, fuse and relay locations.
Body:
Body construction, exterior trim, interior trim, doors, windows, hood, tailgate, bumpers, seats, safety restraints.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspections and replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, fault code interpretation, symptom-based diagnostics.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major components and systems, including engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities and types, electrical schematics, component dimensions, diagnostic parameters.
Depth:
Extensive and detailed, covering everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics and body repair.
Engine Code:
G4GC / Beta II (common for this application)
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshaft), 16 valves
Displacement:
2351 cc (2.4 Liters)
Horsepower Estimated:
162-175 hp @ 6000 rpm (varies slightly by region/specific tuning)
Torque Estimated:
161-170 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (varies slightly by region/specific tuning)
Bore X Stroke:
87.0 mm x 97.0 mm
Induction:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Octane Rating Recommended:
87 AKI (Anti-Knock Index)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-20 (API SM or higher)
Engine Oil Capacity W Filter:
4.3 Liters (4.5 US Quarts)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol-based antifreeze/coolant (Asian vehicle specific, typically pink or orange)
Coolant Capacity:
6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts)
Oil Consumption:
Some reports of increased oil consumption with higher mileage; check for leaks and piston ring wear.
Evaporative Emissions Control System:
Potential issues with EVAP canister purge valve or vent solenoid causing check engine lights.
Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Type:
N/A for this 2.4L variant in most markets.
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios detailed in the manual (e.g., 1st: 2.75, 2nd: 1.50, 3rd: 1.00, 4th: 0.69, Reverse: 1.94)
Transmission Fluid Type:
SPIII ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
6.7 Liters (7.1 US Quarts) for a complete fill
Service Interval Fluid Change:
Recommended every 60,000 miles or as per severe service schedule.
Length:
4540 mm (178.7 in)
Height:
1600 mm (63.0 in)
Wheelbase:
2700 mm (106.3 in)
Ground Clearance Estimated:
160 mm (6.3 in)
Seating Capacity:
5 passengers
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row Estimated:
N/A (Rondo typically 5-seater, but folding rear seats provides ample space)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row Estimated:
840 Liters (29.7 cu ft)
Cargo Volume Max Estimated:
1900 Liters (67.1 cu ft)
Curb Weight Estimated:
1450-1550 kg (3197-3417 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Estimated:
2000-2100 kg (4409-4630 lbs)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:
Not explicitly rated for all models/years by NHTSA for this generation, but generally considered safe within its class. Consult specific vehicle VIN history for detailed ratings.
IIHS Side Impact Rating:
Not explicitly rated for all models/years by IIHS, but generally considered safe within its class. Consult specific vehicle VIN history for detailed ratings.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Ebs:
Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS) on some trims.
Stability Control:
Optional Electronic Stability Control (ESC) on some trims.
Airbags Front:
Standard dual front airbags
Airbags Side:
Standard front side-impact airbags
Airbags Curtain:
Standard roof-mounted side curtain airbags for front and second-row occupants
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners for all seating positions.
Child Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
Oil Filter Change:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (Iridium-tipped plugs).
Coolant Flush And Replace:
Every 5 years or 100,000 miles.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles.
Power Steering Fluid:
KIA Genuine Power Steering Fluid or equivalent DEXRON III/MERCON ATF.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Suspension Components:
Potential wear in front control arm bushings and rear stabilizer bar links, leading to clunking noises.
Air Conditioning Compressor:
Some owners report premature failure of the AC compressor clutch or the compressor itself.
Idle Air Control Valve:
Can become dirty or fail, leading to rough idling or stalling.
Rear Wiper Motor:
Occasional failure of the rear wiper motor unit.
Manufacturer:
KIA Motors Corporation
Heritage Focus:
Known for offering value-packed vehicles with improving quality and design.
Generation:
First Generation (2006-2010)
Design Inspiration:
Based on the Cerato (Spectra) platform, but with an extended wheelbase and taller body for MPV functionality.
Market Introduction:
Introduced in 2006 as a stylish and practical alternative to traditional minivans and compact SUVs.
Manufacturing Location:
South Korea (primarily Hwaseong Plant)
Production Years:
2006-2010
Safety Awards:
While specific awards for the 2008 Rondo are not widely documented, KIA vehicles of this era saw increasing recognition for safety and reliability in general consumer reports.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings varied by model year and specific components; the manual is crucial for addressing potential weak points and maintaining optimal performance.
Emissions Standards:
Meets EPA and relevant regional emissions standards for its model year.