We've been on a search for smaller more efficient motoring than the minivan, though still wagonlike and taller riding. So, small SUVs and compact vans.
Such as this:
'08 Rondo EX I4
Though obviously no powerhouse, the 2.4L I4 is really peppy, even with a four-speed automatic. This is the 2.4L I4 shared with Chrysler and Mitsubishi, and in those cars (the Chryslers at least) it's been criticized for being somewhat unrefined. Can't say that this is the case here, it feels just as smooth as an Aura/Malibu Ecotec I4 and actually a bit quieter. The automatic has four well-placed gears, is smooth and prompt in its shifts.
Also available Hyundai's long-running 2.7L V6. It has nearly/about 20 more hp and lb-ft of torque than the 2.4L I4 and uses a 5-speed automatic. EPA ratings are almost identical between the two, with the I4 being rated 1 mpg better in the city. Didn't drive it, but the extra power is probably more useful more in passing (and the extra gear helps there too). IIRC the 2.4L I4 features a timing chain, the 2.7L V6 a timing belt.
Handling is pretty competent. It's a tall compact minivan/SUVlike thing, so it's obviously not going to be very sporting (only the Mazda 5 can probably give something close to that), but body roll isn't excessive, the 17" tire and wheels grip decently and the steering is weighted well for pretty good response.
Inside, space is plentiful. The front seat has easy-to-use manual adjustment. Driving position is upright and commanding, and very airy with tall windows and the nice touch of small windows ahead of the front doors in the A-pillar, which at least helps a little with the usual blind spot. Headroom is expansive as well, even with power sunroof. Steering wheel only tilts, no telescope, but is positioned well. Controls are easy to reach, and there are controls on the wheel for the excellent AM/FM/6-disc CD Infinity sound system.
2 center cupholders are big (even an extra large Dunkin Donuts coffee has room to spare), but possibly too big as there are no rubber pieces or anything to hold drinks of varying size. It seems '07 Rondos may have had this, judging by Familycar.com's photos of an '07 Rondo.
Dimensionally, it fits right in with every other compact SUV out there. It's a little wider inside than a Mazda 5, which is noticeable in the very wide 2nd row seat, with plenty of space for three-across seating (though unfortunately no center armrest). Otherwise, the rear seat is set fairly high off the ground so there's no knees up riding, and it has plenty of space. 2009 models seem to have decontented the cupholders for the rear seats.
A third row seat is available but not featured on this particular Rondo (before '09, the third row wasn't available on EX I4 models). Cargo space is comparable to most other small SUVs; the load floor is probably a little lower than a VUE, not quite as low as a CR-V. There are deep storage compartments below the floor as well, as you might expect since they can put a third row in it, however tight that seat may be. There seems to be two different 2nd-row seat-folding mechanisms, depending on third row seats or not.
Without third row seat, the bottom seat cushion slides forward when the seatback is folded forward, for a flat load floor. Headrests don't need to be removed.
With third row seat, the bottom seat cushion needs to be swung up forward for the seatback to fold flat with the folded third-row. Headrests need to be removed, but there are openings for the posts to be inserted.
The initial quality is great. Fit and finish is solid, the perforated leather upholstery is fantastic quality (especially for less than $23k), and the controls all move smoothly and precisely. The headlights are bright and light the road with a far and even display of light. The interior center console opens and closes solidly, the doors aren't too heavy but still have a solid thunk when closed. Remote keyless entry buttons seem a little more finicky to use than say, a GM key fob (they don't respond quite as positively). Dash illumination is an attractive amber. Here, it is sort of similar to Pontiac and newer Saturn interior lighting, but not as red as Pontiac and not as orange as Saturn.
IIRC 2009 Rondos added (whether standard or optional, I'm not sure) a USB input, and heated cloth seats are a new option on Rondo LXs, while Rondo EXs now feature leather seats as standard and the option of a navigation system. Power is up a bit for both engines and the EPA ratings adjusted a little bit.
For less than $20k starting, the Rondo is a fantastic value. They feature about all the equipment you find as standard on a Camry/Accord/Malibu/Fusion, but for less and in a more versatile package, if not so much a stylish design (well, minus the Camry
). It offers the same versatility and features but for less money than a CR-V/RAV4/VUE/etc.
No more pics to really offer other than dimly lit camera phone pics, but familycar.com has great pics of a red over tan leather
'07 EX V6.
