Most families need comfortable and roomy cars that are impressive in style and can seat dad, mum and five more.
The Kia Rondo is considered to be a great choice for families, and the 2015 version gets even better.
Kia has added several features to its new Rondo range, placing it close to the top of a short list of competitors, including Mercedes-Benz B-Class, the Mazda CX-5, as well as the Ford C-Max.
The interior gets better-looking materials, and the list of features includes accessories and gadgets hardly seen in other vehicles.
A Smart looking seven seat people mover
Here is a detailed review of the stunning all new Kia Rondo – a real 7 seater SUV people mover.
Kia Rondo On The Outside
The new KIA Rondo, which provides a distinctive world-class European-style, is highly attractive. Where the old Rondo was only a dull box, the 2015 version has been turned into a striking piece.
From the sides, it bears a strong resemblance to the Mercedes-Benz B-Class. The windows look small from the exterior, but visibility is clear thanks to the high seating position, as well as the large rear window which provides a clear view out the back.
Although it doesn’t get the same dose of styling as evident in its predecessors, the 2014 model is undoubtedly a world apart from the departing versions.
The Kia Rondo Prices Right Now
| Kia Rondo Si | Kia Rondo SLi | Kia Rondo Platinum |
|---|---|---|
| From $34,168 MSRP For Petrol/Automatic | From $38,288 MSRP For Petrol/Automatic | From $43,953 MSRP For Petrol/Automatic |
*MSRP: Is the starting price with excludes destination/delivery charge, taxes, title and registration. Optional equipment is also not included in the price.
Awesome Cabin Comfort and Space
Kia Rondo – What’s inside?
The KIA Rondo is mainly a people mover, so the designers have placed lots of emphasis into the interior. The interior is packed with stunning materials such as accessories and gadgets like cooled seats, perfect for summer months.
Getting in and out is very easy, both in second-raw and front seat, an important consideration when ferrying aged people.
The tall and wide body also creates room for five more passengers in the back. While passengers six and seven seaters may feel a bit squeezed on the third row, it is still an excellent choice for large families.
How does it rate for Comfort?
In terms of comfort, this car tops the list. The front seats are extremely comfortable with a newly added ventilated driver’s seat, while the spongy perforated leather upholstery looks and feels great.
The second row seat slide forward to allow for more legroom at the back, though that may compromise second-row legroom for tall passengers. Interior storage compartments are also very good.
With large drawers underneath the second row foot wells together with numerous spots throughout the cabin for placing handsets, sunglasses, wallets, drinks, and the various accessories of the modern lifestyles.
Great for middle row passengers – a bit tight for rear
The Rondo For Safety & Drivability
The Korean car makers understand that safety is everyone’s concern. That is why it has packed this model with such important safety gear as front, side and curtain air bags, anti-lock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist, Hill-Start Assist, reversing camera, as well as reverse parking sensors.
In road tests, it was found that the new Kia Rondo performed amazingly well. Both the V6 engines and four-cylinder delivered smooth acceleration. The V6 is responsive, providing punchy acceleration. In everyday situations, the Rondo can mislead you into thinking you are driving a Mercedes C class.
On board navigation
What About Technology On Board?
For many years, the KIA Rondo has set the standard for advanced technology. This second generation car is the finest yet as it continues to be the showcase for the version’s newest hi-tech developments.
Standard equipment includes cruise control, 16-inch alloy wheels, six- speaker audio system and a 4.3-inch touch screen. In addition to these, there is also a rear-view camera, the standard reverse parking sensors, static cornering lamps as well as multi-functional steering wheel incorporated across the range.
Engine – And what’s under the hood
Compared to previous to 2014 models, this version comes with a choice of turbo diesel engine as well as an advanced version of the original 2.0-litre petrol which produces 164 hp and 156 lb-ft of torque.
The car comes paired with either 6-speed manual or automatic transmission which Kia calls Sportmatic owing to its manual shift mode feature. With more power and torque than its predecessor, the new 2.0-litre petrol engine delivers great performance.
Equipped with 320Nm of torque, it is the 1.7-litre diesel engine that is the most versatile, effortlessly and smoothly shifting its 1652kg kerb weight.
Kia Rondo – people mover with 7 seat capacity
Conclusion and Final Words
The Kia Rondo joins the likes of Mazda and Toyota in serving large Australian families that are looking for comfortable and roomy cars. It is a people mover that is not only appealing to the eye, but also comfortable and comes with loads of modern features that make it a great value for cash in the class.