KIA’S new compact people-mover, the Rondo 7, is proof positive that the Korean company is moving forward in design and engineering, with a promising blend of compact exterior, roomy and well-packaged seven-seat interior and - given the inexorable climb in fuel costs - the bonus of a fuel-efficient 2.0-litre petrol engine. Though the small people-mover concept is not new, rising fuel prices and families wishing to downsize their car will find the Rondo 7’s good value, space and safety very appealing.
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Kia Carens
Released: July 2000
Ended: December 2001
Family Tree: RondoKia's late, unloved Carens was based on the Shuma platform and had seating for six occupants. The engine was a 1.8-litre engine also sourced from the Shuma sedan/hatch range and produced 81kW at 5750rpm and 152Nm of torque at 4500rpm. The 1.8-litre drove through the front wheels via a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic. The Carens manual was $23,990 and the auto $2000 extra.
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