Family buyers were drawn to the Kia display at the Australian International Motor Show (Sydney) to see the local debut of the good-looking new Rondo seven-seat compact MPV. Currently the Kia Rondo is Australia’s lowest-priced seven seater so its popularity with Australian families is clear.
At 4.5-metres, the all-new Rondo is 20mm shorter than Kia’s current version (it’s also 15mm narrower). And at 1610mm in overall height, the all-new version is 40mm lower making it one of the lowest seven-seaters on the market.
Significantly, the all-new Kia Rondo provides extra interior space thanks to 50mm more length in the wheelbase and a forward shift of the A-pillar.
Styling is the usual Kia slick job and the new Rondo sits on wheels ranging from 16-inch to 18-inch.
As expected, interior versatility is impressive with even the front passenger seat capable of folding flat to max the load capacity. The second row is actually three individual seats and the third row both split folds 50/50 or can be folded flat to store on the floor when not in use.
For Europe, Kia is offering the Rondo with a choice of four engines. The petrol lineup comprises Kia’s 99kW/165Nm 1.6-litre GDI (as fitted to the Rio) and a 130kW/211Nm 2.0-litre. Diesel customers can choose from two 1.7-litre versions offering 85kW/260Nm and 100kW/330Nm.
Specifications are impressive with cruise control, electric parking brake and six-speaker audio as standard. A panoramic glass sunroof heads the options list.
On the safety front, lane departure warning and smart parking assistance systems are available.
Kia Australia will finalize exact specifications and pricing for the all-new Rondo ahead of launch next year.
