Market Positioning:
The Kia Rondo was positioned as a versatile compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV), offering a blend of SUV-like practicality with car-like driving dynamics and fuel economy. It competed in a segment with vehicles like the Mazda 5, Dodge Journey, and Chevrolet HHR.
Key Competitors 2007:
Mazda 5, Chrysler PT Cruiser, Ford Focus Wagon.
Distinctive Features:
Available in 5- and 7-passenger configurations, sliding rear doors (on some markets/trims), compact footprint, flexible interior seating arrangements.
Covered Systems:
Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, HVAC, Body Panels, Interior Trim, Electrical Components, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Wheels & Tires, Lighting.
Included Procedures:
Component identification, Part number verification, Illustration referencing, Price reference, Labor information estimation (likely generic). Focus is on part identification and procurement for DIY repairs.
Technical Depth:
Parts catalog level. Provides exploded views of components and their corresponding part numbers. Does not include diagnostic or repair procedures beyond identifying the correct part for a replacement.
Engine Type:
Inline-4 Cylinder
Displacement Liters:
2.4L
Engine Code North America:
G4KC (Theta I)
Horsepower Hp:
Approx. 162-164 hp @ 5800-6000 RPM (Varies slightly by year/market)
Torque Lb-Ft:
Approx. 163-165 lb-ft @ 4250-4500 RPM (Varies slightly by year/market)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
ECU Type:
Bosch Motronic (typical for this era Kia/Hyundai)
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic (with Sportmatic Shifting)
Automatic Transmission Code:
V4A51 (commonly used Hyundai/Kia 4-speed auto)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
SPIII (Super Plus Premum Universal Fluid)
Length In:
174.7 - 175.6 inches (depending on market/spec)
Wheelbase In:
104.3 inches
Cargo Volume Cu Ft Behind 2Nd Row:
Approx. 31.7 cu ft
Cargo Volume Cu Ft Max:
Approx. 64.1 cu ft (with 2nd and 3rd rows folded)
Curb Weight Lbs:
Approx. 3,300 - 3,500 lbs (depending on configuration)
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
5-Star (for driver and front passenger, 2007 model year tested)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating:
Good (for 2007 model year)
Standard Active Safety:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA).
Standard Passive Safety:
Front airbags (driver/passenger), Front side-impact airbags, Side curtain airbags (for all rows), Active front head restraints, Pretensioners for front seat belts.
Latch Anchors:
Yes, for rear seats.
Standard Infotainment:
AM/FM/CD audio system with auxiliary input jack, 6 speakers.
Optional Infotainment:
Optional Infinity audio system, satellite radio readiness.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, Tilt steering wheel.
Connectivity Features:
Auxiliary audio input jack.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 to 7,500 miles (8,000 to 12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil type.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Typically every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Typically every 15,000 to 30,000 miles (24,000 to 48,000 km).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-20, API SM or higher.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology), typically Pink or Orange color. Refer to manual for specific Kia coolant P/N.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Common Issues Engine:
Occasional reports of oil consumption in higher mileage Theta engines. Check engine light due to camshaft position sensor failures.
Common Issues Transmission:
Some reports of rough shifting or delayed engagement with the automatic transmission, potentially due to valve body wear or fluid degradation.
Common Issues Suspension Steering:
Worn front control arm bushings and sway bar links can lead to knocking noises or sloppy handling.
Common Issues Electrical:
Window regulator failures, occasional issues with power door locks and interior lighting.
Oil Filter Part Number:
Example Kia P/N: 26300-35056 (Verify with specific vehicle VIN and catalog).
Air Filter Part Number:
Example Kia P/N: 28113-2B000 (Verify with specific vehicle VIN and catalog).
Kia History Context:
Kia Motors Corporation, founded in 1944, grew from a manufacturer of bicycle parts and steel tubing to South Korea's second-largest automobile manufacturer. Kia's global expansion accelerated in the 1990s, becoming known for offering value-oriented vehicles.
Rondo Introduction:
The Kia Rondo (marketed as the Kia Carens in many international markets) was introduced in North America for the 2007 model year. It represented Kia's attempt to capture a share of the growing compact MPV segment.
Rondo Generations North America:
First Generation (2007-2010). Globally, the Rondo/Carens has had multiple generations, with the North American Rondo being based on a platform shared with the Kia Optima and Hyundai Sonata of that era.
Manufacturing Plant:
Hwasung, South Korea (primary manufacturing location for North American models).
Safety Awards:
Achieved 5-Star frontal crash test ratings from NHTSA for the 2007 model year, indicating strong structural integrity in frontal impacts.
IIHS Ratings:
Rated 'Good' in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's moderate overlap frontal-offset crash test, a measure of occupant protection.
Emission Certifications:
Meets ULEV (Ultra Low Emission Vehicle) standards in certain markets/states.
