2007 Kia Rondo in Elgin, IL - $4,500

Featuring the bold style, comfort, flexibility and spaciousness of an SUV, the impressive crossover from the Korean automaker delivers precise handling with the fuel economy of a sedan. The Rondo boasts a unique style and accommodating design that are the perfect blend of form and function. Its flexible seating capabilities include available third row seating, allowing seven occupants to join in the fun. Generous cargo space allows passengers to bring along everything needed for adventures great and small.

New for 2010, Rondo benefits from a roster of upgrades including standard seating for seven passengers with three rows of seating, offering the same variety of seating arrangements as a full-size SUV or minivan without the bulk or low fuel economy. In line with advanced styling cues, Rondo also now features the addition of standard side-view mirrors with integrated turn signals and a standard EcoMinder indicator, which aids drivers in operating the vehicle in a more fuel-efficient manner by alerting them when they have reached optimum fuel efficiency, important as gas costs remain high. A back-up camera also is available as part of the Premium Package, which assists drivers in avoiding objects behind the vehicle while reversing.

Available in LX and EX trim levels, the Rondo is derived from the Optima sedan and shares engine, transmission and chassis components. Base power for the front-wheel drive Rondo crossover is provided by a 2.4L four-cylinder engine bolted to a four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive. A 2.7L V6 prime mover joined to a five-speed automatic gearbox with overdrive is an available option.

The Rondo utilizes independent front and rear suspensions. Situated in front are MacPherson struts with coil springs while the rear's multi-link and coil springs complete the layout to provide a comfortable, balanced ride. Standard front and rear anti-roll bars are calibrated for precise and responsive handling.

Kia lavished the Rondo with a very comprehensive roster of standard safety equipment. In addition to the industry average dual front and front seat-mounted side impact airbags, the Rondo includes the following for all models: full-length side curtain airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, electronic stability control and a tire pressure monitoring system.

Inside the cabin is space -– all over the place! The vehicle interior provides an abundance of space, comfort and versatility in a sporty, compact design. Storage space is plentiful and includes two convenient bins on either side of the available third-row seats and another under the cargo-area floor. The door pockets have built-in bottle holders for increased utility and convenience.

Contemporary layout and spacious seating allow for generous head and legroom – front and rear. Displays, controls and switchgear are smartly arranged and easy to use. The versatile 60/40 spilt second-row seats can accommodate three passengers and recline for additional comfort. The seats also slide forward for quick access to the optional third row of seats and fold down to increase cargo carrying capacity. The newly standard 50/50 split third-row seat is designed to carry additional passengers and/or fold flat into the cargo area floor for additional cargo space.

Dimensions & specifications

Wheelbase: 106.3; overall length: 179.0; width: 71.7; height: 65.0

All vehicle measurements are in inches.

Engine: 2.4L four-cylinder – 175 hp at 6,000 rpm and 169 lbs-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm; 2.7L V6 - 192 hp at 6,000 rpm and 184 lbs-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm.

Transmission: four-speed automatic with overdrive, five-speed automatic with overdrive.

EPA Fuel Economy: 2.4L four-cylinder – 20 city/27 hwy; 2.7L V6 – 18 city/26 hwy.

Cargo capacity: 31.7 cubic feet

Safety features

Dual front airbags, front seat mounted side-impact airbags, dual head curtain side-impact airbags, side-impact protection, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, traction control, stability control and tire pressure monitoring system. EX adds fog lamps.

Warranty

Basic: 5-year/60,000 mile Bumper-to-bumper

Powertrain: 10-year/100,000 mile

Corrosion: 5-year/100,000 mile

Roadside Assistance: 5-year/60,000 mile 24-hour

Pricing

The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2010 Kia Rondo crossover starts from $18,495 for the LX upto $22,295 for the EX V6. Destination charges add $695.