Market Position:
The 2009 Kia Rondo is a compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) or crossover, designed to offer the practicality of a minivan with the footprint of a smaller car. It competed in a segment with vehicles like the Mazda 5 and Chevrolet HHR.
Competitive Analysis:
The Rondo aimed to attract buyers seeking flexible seating and cargo capacity without the bulk of a traditional minivan. Its pricing and feature set were key selling points.
Key Features:
Available with 5 or 7 seats, versatile cargo options, and a choice of two distinct engines, offering a balance of practicality and efficiency for families.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, exhaust, emissions control, engine diagnostics and troubleshooting
Transmission Systems:
Automatic transmission (4-speed and 5-speed depending on engine), clutch, drive shafts, differentials, diagnostics and repair
Chassis Systems:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (ABS, EBD), wheel and tire specifications
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, instrument cluster, power accessories, body control module, infotainment, airbags, wiring diagrams
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, HVAC system, interior trim, body sealant and corrosion protection
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections, lubrication
Repair Procedures:
Engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (OBD-II)
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance, component-level diagnostics, full repair procedures, and some advanced troubleshooting
Engine 2 4L:
2.4L DOHC I4 (G4KC 'Beta II' engine family), approximately 175 hp @ 6000 rpm, 169 lb-ft torque @ 4500 rpm
Engine 2 7L:
2.7L DOHC V6 (G6EA 'Mu' engine family), approximately 192 hp @ 6000 rpm, 182 lb-ft torque @ 4500 rpm
Compression Ratio 2 4L:
10.5:1
Compression Ratio 2 7L:
9.8:1
Fuel System Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI or GDI depending on specific sub-model)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission (M/T) likely standard on base 2.4L models
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (4-spd AT) or 5-speed Automatic Transmission (5-spd AT) likely optional on 2.4L and standard on 2.7L V6 models
Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled automatic transmission with overdrive, likely featuring 'Sport' mode or manual shifting capabilities in higher trims.
Length:
Approx. 174.5 inches
Width:
Approx. 71.7 inches
Height:
Approx. 63.4 inches
Wheelbase:
Approx. 104.7 inches
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Approx. 9.2 cubic feet (with 7-seat configuration)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
Approx. 32.1 cubic feet (with 7-seat configuration)
Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:
Approx. 63.1 cubic feet (with 7-seat configuration)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,300 - 3,700 lbs (varies by engine and trim)
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
5-Star (for driver and front passenger, likely)
IIHS Side Impact Rating:
Good (for models tested)
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags (for all rows), active front head restraints, LATCH child seat anchors
Infotainment System:
Basic AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with auxiliary input. Higher trims may feature satellite radio and a premium audio system.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, available steering wheel-mounted audio controls.
Connectivity Options:
Auxiliary audio input jack.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (or 7,500 miles with synthetic oil, refer to manual for specifics).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles, or as needed based on driving conditions.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles, or as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement 2 4L:
Typically around 100,000 miles for iridium-tipped plugs.
Spark Plug Replacement 2 7L:
Typically around 100,000 miles for iridium-tipped plugs.
Timing Belt Or Chain:
2.4L I4 and 2.7L V6 engines use a timing chain, which is generally maintenance-free unless issues arise.
Engine Oil Type 2 4L:
SAE 5W-20, API SN or ILSAC GF-5 compliant (refer to manual for precise specifications and capacity).
Engine Oil Type 2 7L:
SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30, API SN or ILSAC GF-5 compliant (refer to manual for precise specifications and capacity).
Transmission Fluid Type:
Kia ATF SP-III or equivalent (refer to manual for specific type and capacity).
Coolant Type:
Asian red or orange long-life coolant (ethylene glycol-based, refer to manual for specifications).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (refer to manual).
Known Issues:
Potential for oil consumption in higher mileage 2.7L V6 engines, occasional issues with power window regulators, and possible ABS sensor failures. HVAC blend door actuators can also be a point of failure.
Common Repairs:
Replacement of control arms and bushings due to wear, front wheel bearing replacement, catalytic converter issues on some models.
Brand Heritage:
Kia, established in 1944, has a history of producing vehicles ranging from trucks to passenger cars. It gained significant global presence in the late 20th and early 21st centuries.
Model Evolution:
The Kia Rondo (also known as Carens in some markets) is part of Kia's global strategy to offer versatile vehicles. The first generation debuted in 2006, with the second generation (available as a 2007 model year in North America) seeing significant updates for 2009, including revised styling and powertrain enhancements.
Production Location:
Primarily manufactured in South Korea at Kia's Hwasung Plant.
