The 2007 Kia Rondo SUV (from $16,995) delivers a degree of bold packaging uncommon in an SUV that behaves like a fuel-efficient sedan. The Rondo can seat from five to seven passengers and is offered in four models, the LX, LX V6, EX, and EX V6. Engine choices are a 2.4-liter generating 162 horsepower (automatic with four speeds) or a 2.7-liter V6 with 182 horsepower (automatic with five speeds.) Towing capacity is 1,000 lbs. The 2.4-liter engine returns a fuel economy of 21 city, 29 highway while the 2.7-liter getting 20/27.

Occupants are protected by double airbags in the front with an additional two mounted in the seats to deploy against impact from the side. (Bags in the curtain position are also present.) Systems to manage the stability of the vehicle and the pressure of the tires are augmented by all-wheel disc brakes with anti-locking technology. The doors have beams for further reinforcement and the vehicle has a crumple zone in both the front and rear. Car seats are held in place by the LATCH anchoring sytem and locks on the rear doors are rated as child safe.

The standard audio unit in the 2007 Kia Rondo LX models is a regular combo with the EX adding the ability for MP3 playback and cassettes (all across six speakers.) Drivers may opt for an Infinity system with 315-watts of power including a changer in the dash to hold six discs, a subwoofer measuring 7.5 inches, and ten overall speakers.