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Rondo vs Outlander/Rav4/Santa Fe/Mazda5

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Comments

  • coolmazda5coolmazda5 Member Posts: 525
    Hey medicineman, I'm only a regular in another forum so unless you have different forum profile names I think we have not "met" until now. ;)

    But now that I'm thinking, Wouldn't that be funny? Following each other around forums to defend/fight our preferences? ;)

    The thing that comes to mind now is for Mazda and KIA to find us and hire us as sales guys or something. I'm pretty sure that with our arguments around we have sold at least 2 extra Mazda5s and Rondos each... :P
  • waygrabowwaygrabow Member Posts: 214
    Bravo! That is one of the most intelligent comments made on this forum in a long time. Thank you! Like a breath of fresh air!

    It is all about individual preferences. Isn't it great that we have so many different cars to choose from?
  • conwelpicconwelpic Member Posts: 600
    "I hate how most new cars these days seem to have those tiny streamlined windows at the rear of the vehicle. I want more visibility, not less"

    you hit the nail on the head with this one. That's what makes the Rondo appear so large inside (along with its lighter interior - can't stand black interiors). I have noticed on so many new cars over the last couple of years where the windows keep getting smaller and smaller, more noticeable in particular the Chrysler vehicles. I sat in some of their newer models at the Toronto Auto Show last February and it felt like I was looking out of "gun slots" - felt very enclosed and turned me right off! More and more manufacturers are creating these higher beltlines, with less and less glass area.
  • w9cww9cw Member Posts: 888
    For coolmazda5, the Rondo we have in the USA is the 3rd Generation Kia Carens. The Carens has been quite successful in Europe, hence Kia's decision to offer it in this market. It's not a new car, per se - new to this market yes, but not in other markets. And, since it's a 3rd Generation vehicle, it's well proven and reliable.
  • w9cww9cw Member Posts: 888
    There is an structural engineering reason for the higher belt lines, and "vertically-challenged" side windows - it's called side crash worthiness. If you note most of the new cars today have shorter side windows and higher belt lines - this is effectively a requirement to provide improved side crash safety, and penetration resistance.
  • coolmazda5coolmazda5 Member Posts: 525
    Thanks for the info w9cw.

    Yes,also Mazda5 runs under Premacy in Japan and some other Asian countries and has been around for some time already (1999 ?). However the one we purchased is the first model of the 2nd generation (oh man, I hope all this 1st, 2nd yara naming convention makes sense :D). Still, knowing the potential trouble of a first model, we took the risk back in 05 as we were really delighted with its design and versatility. And, as said earlier, even with the early recalls (well ironed out by now) the damn car versatility still surprises us (just the other day we managed to fit a full swing set box, when not even the store guys believed us. They said: "no way it will fit, rent a pick up truck". To their surprise, everything fit just fine).

    As for reliability, wife and baby are the day to day primary driver and passenger and have had zero issues, so it is reliable. Plus, those sliding doors are just plain awesome.

    I have a silly idea. For all Rondo fans I'll step aside defending the Mazda5 attributes based on my arguments and I'll use my wife's...

    She is not into brands, models or engines, yet if you ask her what are her thoughts of a Mazda5 and the potential competitors (she just saw a Rondo the other day at the grocery store), Mazda5 wins heads down (top of her list: sliding doors, low height, 5 speed manual transmission, a really economic 4 cylinder engine, 6 CD Player, it does not look like a typical Soccer Mom Car nor an SUV and is an IKEA box carrier compliant car :D )

    I rest my case ;)
  • growwisegrowwise Member Posts: 296
    Mazda5 needs to grow a few armrests... Rondo needs new design language both inside and out. Best alternative option I believe is a loaded CR-V in beige/black interior. And no.. I am not biased since I own a 07 mitsu outlander XLS thank you.

    BTW, why is this thread in mitsu forums?
  • coolmazda5coolmazda5 Member Posts: 525
    Growwise replied:
    "BTW, why is this thread in mitsu forums?"

    Good question growwise. It seems that this thread has been placed as "shared" among all featured forums for cars listed in the main topic text (Rondo/Outlander/Rav4/Santa Fe/Mazda5) so possibly that has caused the noise. I.e. When I logged-in the first time I saw the topic under:
    Forums > Vans & Minivans > Mazda Mazda5

    Then I saw the title and I wondered: Why does the Rondo need to compare against the rest, Shouldn't the Mazda5 be compared against the rest instead? Anyway, I promised to rest my case, but I need to be sitting @ the computer today, so... :D
  • conwelpicconwelpic Member Posts: 600
    There is an structural engineering reason for the higher belt lines, and "vertically-challenged" side windows - it's called side crash worthiness.

    maybe so, but the Rondo has "normal windows" and it gets 4 and 5 stars for side impact. I think is more of styling gimmick!
  • arumagearumage Member Posts: 922
    The sliding doors are a plus, but I can't even sit in the second row of the Mazda5 since I'm 6'3". The Rondo fits me great even with the front row seats all the way back. The automatic equipped Rondo gets better highway even V6 equipped and is much quieter and smoother. It's not as sports influenced and doesn't come with a manual. It has it's faults, but it's a much better people carrier IMO. Isn't that the goal for these vehicles?
  • joe97joe97 Member Posts: 2,248
    Then I saw the title and I wondered: Why does the Rondo need to compare against the rest, Shouldn't the Mazda5 be compared against the rest instead?

    That response is as biased as you can get.

    Aside from the Rondo and Mazda5, the other three are all CUVs. Actually, I believe Kia advertises the Rondo as a crossover :)

    FWIW, between the Rondo and the Mazda, both are great mini-MPVs. Rondo is more practical, Mazda5 is more sporty. If I was in the market for a minivan or mini-MPV, I would go with the Rondo for its purpose. Actually, all three of Kia vehicles (Rondo, Sedona SWB, Sedona LWB) are great products. Believe it or not, Kia is the only maker that has the minivan market covered from small to large...kudos!!
  • coolmazda5coolmazda5 Member Posts: 525
    joe97 replied:
    That response is as biased as you can get


    Thanks for the input, sounds reasonable, yet I believe you are not understanding the issue discussed earlier. If the thread shows on a Mazda5 forum, then the title makes it biased from the start . It only makes sense if the thread shows in a Rondo forum :D. The problem found is that it shows in multiple forums at once regardless of the car model primarily discussed.

    For the rest of your reply: "It is all about individual preferences" (credit: member waygrabow).

    For what is worth, I hope we can get some input from somebody who already has owned a Rondo for at least the time it has been in the market in the US. I believe the input would be more accurate (good or bad)
  • joe97joe97 Member Posts: 2,248
    if the thread shows on a Mazda5 forum, then the title makes it biased from the start . It only makes sense if the thread shows in a Rondo forum

    It does show up in both forums. It also shows up in SF, RAV4, Outlander, Car Shopping, and Wagon forums.

    My point being, you said earlier Rondo wasn't even worth comparing with the rest...

    I've spent extensive time in both the Mazda5 and the Rondo (that's my job). Thanks for discrediting my opinion, yes, I don't own either one.

    I hope we can get some input from somebody who already has owned a Rondo for at least the time it has been in the market in the US. I believe the input would be more accurate (good or bad)
  • coolmazda5coolmazda5 Member Posts: 525
    :D. I think I have replied more times during the weekend than during my whole tenure at Edmunds forums. OK OK, to the point:

    Joe97 replied:
    It does show up in both forums. It also shows up in SF, RAV4, Outlander, Car Shopping, and Wagon forums.


    Exactly. That was my intended point. Please see my earlier reply (message #60) :
    coolmazda5, "Rondo vs Outlander/Rav4/Santa Fe/Mazda5" #60, 27 May 2007 7:22 am

    What about I suggest a new title next time it's posted as shared: i.e. "Comparing Mini People Movers: Rondo, Outlander, Rav4, Santa Fe and Mazda5". I think that may motivate more readers to reply in a less biased way

    Joe97 replied:
    My point being, you said earlier Rondo wasn't even worth comparing with the rest...


    Really? Where, if I could ask? I'm just a pro-Mazda5 guy, that's it :D

    Joe97 replied:
    I've spent extensive time in both the Mazda5 and the Rondo (that's my job). Thanks for discrediting my opinion, yes, I don't own either one.


    Nope, I don't discredit opinions, I just don't agree with some of them, which is different ;). I believe I don't have the authority to discredit anyone on this arena. BTW, talking about car segments and acronyms, MAV (multi-activity vehicle) is also relevant for some of the cars listed

    http://newsletter.csmauto.com/2ndQtr2004/?a=2
  • joe97joe97 Member Posts: 2,248
    Really? Where, if I could ask?

    "Then I saw the title and I wondered: Why does the Rondo need to compare against the rest, Shouldn't the Mazda5 be compared against the rest instead?"

    The word "instead" means one but not the other.

    As for the other issue, it's one thing to disagree with another opinion, which is perfectly fine; it's another to add subliminal messages such as input from an owner would be more accurate.
  • spoolespoole Member Posts: 15
    My wife would like to replace her soon-to-be 10 year old ford escort wagon.She has only put 26000 miles on the escort but 10 years is a long time to drive the same vehicle. I recently bought a 2007 Azera (hyundai) and am VERY IMPRESSED with it. I feel the Koreans are trying very hard for excellent quality in their autos. Kia is owned by hyundai. Therefore, I'm condidering a Kia Rondo to replace the escort. I've also researched the hyundai Santa Fe. Anyone have any advice or suggestions? This is my first post.
  • medicinemanmedicineman Member Posts: 135
    Welcome to the Edmunds forums, spoole. My suggestion would be to read some of the excellent discussions on the Santa Fe and Rondo. Once you get through all of that, if you have any specific questions, post them and some of the helpful contributors to these forums will gladly answer.

    Rondo Discussions
    Santa Fe Discussions

    Also check out Kia-Forums.com for more on the Rondo.
  • rcpaxrcpax Member Posts: 580
    I would suggest you also consider the 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander. Look at the pricepoint for the XLS trim with Navigation, HID headlights, Leather Seats, Sunroof, 650W Rockford Fosgate Sounds, decent mileage V6 MIVEC engine with 220 horses, On-the-fly selectable 4WD, 18" Alloy wheels, Auto climate aircon, Bluetooth handsfree, foldable 2nd and 3rd row seats, flap-fold tailgate, FAST Keyless entry-keyless start, MP3 Music Server, Sirius tuner with free 6 mos subscription among other things. Most members got this model and trim with all those options for 28,600 to 28,800 depending on the dealership. And even less with your trade-in.

    Plus, get a 5yr new vehicle warranty, 10yr powertrain warranty, 5 yr free roadside assistance, and 7 yr rust through warranty.

    So many good stuff for a lot less money if you ask me ;)

    For your research:
    The Outlander forums are here: http://townhall-talk.edmunds.com/WebX/.f0d6490/
    Another good online community here: http://outlander.freeforums.org
    Read some more about the Outlander here: http://paxtech.blogspot.com/search/label/Outlander
    For a comparison with the competition: http://www.outeverything.com/out/comparison.html

    I'm not asking you to buy one, but rather take one for a test drive, and compare the power and handling with the rest of the competition. I think the car will sell itself if it's good enough.
  • coolmazda5coolmazda5 Member Posts: 525
    Agree with rcpax. With all my earlier replies ("subliminal", youza! :confuse:), I did not mention that the Outlander (2007, the new model) took a 2nd place on my list.

    I saw one the other day (it should have been the XLS then) and, apart for the clean interior design (looks very European), it had those steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters (a la Lancer). Mazda5 only offers those in Japan I believe. I know, I know, possibly your wife may never use them, but should be a good extra for the price (and a good motivation for you to drive it from time to time :D. A family car doesn't have to be boring to drive).

    I have tried the paddle shifters through renting a Saturn Aura some days ago. It takes some time to get used to them and they make you consume more gas, but it is a fun-to-drive item. 5 yr free roadside assistance does not sound bad either. Family peace of mind if you ask)

    Best of luck!
  • arumagearumage Member Posts: 922
    The Outlander is a fabulous driver, but I found the interior bits to be a bit chintzy. The Santa Fe is a little bit subdued in the handling department, but the interior is a little more upscale by comparison. The 3rd row is also good enough for 6' adults if you choose that option. The Rondo had the best 2nd row room of the 3, but the other two have more storage behind the 2nd row. The Rondo also is a little bit odd in the way options are handled. It doesn't have the high end options available on the others.
  • bodble2bodble2 Member Posts: 4,514
    "..it is a fun-to-drive item"

    But the novelty wears off on those things, and all the other manumatic variants, very quickly, mainly because they don't add to the performance, and they're still not as fun as a true manual tranny, if you're into shifting for yourself.
  • biscuit_xlsbiscuit_xls Member Posts: 194
    You might not end up paddle-shifting all the time, but they're convenient for downshifts from 6th to 5th on downgrades etc.

    And, you can always just use it in automatic mode, which is a very smooth 6 speed on the Outlander.
  • toomanyfumestoomanyfumes Member Posts: 1,019
    Biscuit was yours the Pearl White Met? How do you like the color now that you have had the vehicle awhile? We are waiting for our white LS to arrive. We went back to the lot to look at them again and we're not as thrilled with the white as when we bought it. Just looks more like a plain white and hard to see the pearl in it. To be fair, the cars on the lot were quite dirty and I'm expecting it to look better once it's cleaned up.
    2012 Mustang Premium, 2013 Lincoln MKX Elite, 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander.
  • spoolespoole Member Posts: 15
    I had not considered the Outlander...now I will look at it. I must admit I really like the quality of my Azera. It was the first EVER forign auto I have ever bought. Hyundai and Kia are making some good quality autos. I'm trying to keep cost down as my wife drives about 3000 miles a year. Might be cheaper to have her take a cab rather than spend 22-27K on a new car.
  • bodble2bodble2 Member Posts: 4,514
    True..on both points. It's just that I rarely use the manumatic mode for my TL after, say, the first month after I bought it.
  • bodble2bodble2 Member Posts: 4,514
    FWIW, I continue to be impressed with the styling and the look of quality of the Santa Fe, more so than (at the risk of stepping on biscuit's toes) the Outlander, although the latter matches the Hyundai in terms of bang for your buck. Strictly on looks, my subjective ranking of the top 3 CUV in that segment would be Santa Fe, RAV4 and Outlander, with the CR-V a close 4th.
  • spoolespoole Member Posts: 15
    I guess you might call me a Value Buyer. So far, the Rondo looks good on paper compared to several others. We have the Azera for a good looking travel car. Now all we need is a practical car for my wife to run a few errands. I will get an opportunity to drive some of these possibles soon. I'll know better than. So far, my impressions have been based on paper comparisons and Edmunds Reviews.
  • bodble2bodble2 Member Posts: 4,514
    Do you need 4WD? If value is your #1 priority, Outlander 2WD LS, or even 4WD LS may be your ticket. Even base Outlander comes with V6 and 6-speed auto, and 6-speaker stereo (The Triple 6, so to speak). That's pretty tough to beat from a value point of view.
  • spoolespoole Member Posts: 15
    I appreciate your comments about the Outlander. I will look at their 2WD and compare that to the Rondo and/or Tucson and Santa Fe. I have no experience at all with Mitsibishi. Do they hold value?
  • mpuzachmpuzach Member Posts: 635
    I test drove a Tuscon Limited AWD before ultimately buying my Santa Fe Limited AWD. I must admit to being very pleasantly surprised by how nice the Tucson is. True, it doesn't have some of the Outlander's optional bells and whistles (navigation, xenons) or even some of the standard ones (6-speed transmission, 3rd row seating), but it's a lot of car for the buck.
  • spoolespoole Member Posts: 15
    I've decided we don't need options such as navigation or 4WD. My wife and I are retired and as previously mentioned, she drives very little. We use the Azera when we go more than 20-30 miles. This replacement for her Escort is just for short runs. 4 WD isn't necessary as we go no where when the weather is lousy. We live on the Olympic Peninsula in Washington State and moved here from Upstate New York to get away from REAL weather.
  • coolmazda5coolmazda5 Member Posts: 525
    bodble2 replied:
    But the novelty wears off on those things, and all the other manumatic variants, very quickly, mainly because they don't add to the performance, and they're still not as fun as a true manual tranny, if you're into shifting for yourself.

    You may be right, in my case I really burned some gas on that Saturn rental car :cry:

    Both cars (wife's and mine) have manual tranny so pssibly the desire comes from there. I believe the Outlander does not offer manual transmission for any trim (manual trannys seem to be getting less and less common to give way to the manumatics) so I think that is the closest to it. I gave it a shot as I understand Spoole will not be the primary driver :D so would be fun to enjoy it from time to time. His primary car is the Azera... correct Spoole?

    Now Spoole, once you get the new car, depending on how fun it is to drive, you could even try to do what I tried with my wife: Have attempted to swap my sedan for her Mazda5, although I have had no luck :P, she likes the damn Zoom-Zoom a lot (OK OK, I admit, it fits a stroller, baby car seat and groceries in a much easier, more efficient way than in my car)
  • bodble2bodble2 Member Posts: 4,514
    "Do they hold value?"

    Unfortunately, not as well as the other Japanese brands, especially Honda and Toyota. But probably no worse than the Koreans (for now), and certainly much better than the Big 3.

    You know, based on your wife's driving needs, the car you should check out is the Suzuki SX4. Low price, compact exterior dimensions, quite roomy on the inside, hatchback versatility, perky styling, 6 airbags, available 4WD.
    I think it's a perfect 2nd car.
  • spoolespoole Member Posts: 15
    Yes, my primary car is the Azera. I REALLY LIKE that car. I have owned 11 new Lincoln Towncars ( I was a road salesmen driving 70K per year)and I like this Azera better than any of the Towncars. It's a LOT more fun to drive. Thanks for suggestion on Suzuki; I will check it out,at least from Edmunds.
  • medicinemanmedicineman Member Posts: 135
    If your wife is going to be keeping the vehicle for the long haul (like she has with the Focus wagon), I wouldn't worry that much about depreciation. This can also work to your advantage. That is, since Hyundais and Mitsubishis don't hold their value that well, have you considered buying a used Hyundai or Mits? Perhaps a one or two year old vehicle might suit your wife.

    By the way, I just live north of you in Vancouver, Canada. Your vehicles should last longer since it rarely snows in these parts thus the roads are rarely salted. Someone once said to me, "Yeah, but you have the salty air." Salty air? Water evaporates into the air, not salt. I guess ocean-side roads might get some salt on it by the spray or other means. Anyways, I digress. :)
  • biscuit_xlsbiscuit_xls Member Posts: 194
    toomanyfumes, yes, my Outlander is a Diamond White Metallic XLS. The color is pretty good, easy to keep clean and not as yellow as some pearls. The non-XLS models aren't pearl, from what I remember... I could be thinking of the RAV4 though.

    image
  • mpuzachmpuzach Member Posts: 635
    In that case, I highly recommend that you check out the Tucson Limited. It's well-built, fun to drive, and probably the perfect size for your lady.
  • coolmazda5coolmazda5 Member Posts: 525
    Spoole replied:
    Yes, my primary car is the Azera. I REALLY LIKE that car. I have owned 11 new Lincoln Towncars ( I was a road salesmen driving 70K per year)and I like this Azera better than any of the Towncars.


    A little bit off topic I should say, but interesting comment about the Lincoln TownCar. I just read a related comment this past week: A person was trading a Cadillac CTS for an Asian brand model (you may have figured the brand and model already) claiming final interior quality and boring interior style. As incredulous as I was, this is then an issue for Ford and GM, specifically in models I would not have considered as vulnerable.

    Oh well, Spoole, I hope all this input has been useful so far. Keep us in the loop!
  • spoolespoole Member Posts: 15
    I appreciate all the feedback you guys are contributing. I'll mention that depreciation has some part in my decision because we will not keep the Escort replacement very long. At our ages (senior citizens) 2-3 years is our max for keeping (starting now). Frankly, I LOVE to buy cars...I simply want 110% value for my $$$.I will be looking at a few cars that have been mentioned. Presently, I'm leaning toward the Rondo or Tucson; but I will look at several.
    Thanks again...and I will let you know what transpires.
  • toomanyfumestoomanyfumes Member Posts: 1,019
    Yeah, my LS is Diamond Pearl White. Now that it's cleaned up, I really like it. Unique color on a small SUV, too. I like your XLS, the 18" wheels and silver accents give it a classy look.
    2012 Mustang Premium, 2013 Lincoln MKX Elite, 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander.
  • 204meca204meca Member Posts: 369
    Since your wife is currently driving an Escort Wagon & does not appear to have any special needs, have you considered replacing it with something smaller than a Rondo? I would suggest a Kia Spectra or Rio wagon or sedan or possibly a Hyundai Elantra. Any of these would be somewhat similar to the Escort in size and ease of driving, but a substancial upgrade in comfort and safety while being economical to purchase (you would same $4-6K depending on equipment)and operate.

    All would represent a good value, have a long warranty... None of the Kias or Hyundias have great resale value(too soon to say for the Rondo), but you make up for that to a degree with low up front costs. Given her how little she drives reliablity should not be an issue. Her car will barely be broken in in 3 years.

    Don't get me wrong, I think the Rondo (or Tuscon)is a great car but it seems like much more car than your wife needs for her short errands, assuming he Escort has been meeting her needs & you just want to update her wheels. The fancy Mitsu sounds with all it's bells & whistles sounds like huge overkill for a retired person who is looking for basic transportation. Also, I suspect it is a long way to a Mitsu dealer from the Olympic Penn. Then again, it may be just as far to a Kia dealer.

    You are probably right on about the Taxi being less expensive for her, but that is no fun unless she likes being chauffered around! :blush:
  • spoolespoole Member Posts: 15
    Appreciate your comments. My wife likes a "wagon" of sorts. The Rondo is probably as small as she is comfortable with. While I said I'm a VALUE guy; I don't need to consider every $$$(fortunatly). I must admit, the more I look around, the more choices pop up. Pricewise, the Honda CR-V starts very close to the Rondo. They sure have a great reputation. Anyone have an opinion about Honda?
  • biscuit_xlsbiscuit_xls Member Posts: 194
    The CR-V felt like the engine was always struggling to get it going. It's forced to rev when you need to get on the freeway and sounds thrashy doing it, and the transmission downshifts frequently when you get on the power. The same engine/tranny is great in my wifes Accord, but the CR-V didn't impress me.

    Best thing to do is go test drive everything a couple of times. Narrow it down yourself, then bring your wife along to drive the final contenders.
  • coolmazda5coolmazda5 Member Posts: 525
    The CR-V VTEC engine is not the most powerful thing around (my other car is a Honda) but it has been there for several years. It is very economical and reliable.

    We tested drove the 2006 CR-V when buying the Mazda5 as it also offered Manual Transmission in the EX trim but it was too much of an SUV for us. Manual is not on your wish list but now, to my point, the 2007 model looks less SUV and more wagon like than its predecessor so a 2FWD may be a good option to look after.

    Also note that, at least for the Rondo, many people like it for its 3rd row seat. While the CR-V does not offer one, it seems that in your case you don't have a real need for one, so this means more "wagon like" space for your wife :shades:.

    I personally like the 3rd row seat on my Mazda5, but to be sincere, it is folded 95% of the time to give way to groceries, stroller, swing sets, mulch... :)
  • spoolespoole Member Posts: 15
    We are headed out today to look at a few cars we have been researching. At this stage of life, I guess the important stuff for us is eye appeal, reliability, comfort and price. Yes,all our kids are mature and even some grandchildren are married. We don't need to handle car seats, etc.
    Interesting to hear CR-V has a weak engine. I haven't the patience to drive all we have mentioned. Frankly, once I decide to buy a new car, it doesn't take long to make a decision. I appreciate the input from you all.
  • dnatodaydnatoday Member Posts: 8
    First of all, I am glad you are not replacing your wife but her CAR. Lucky gal-- she gets you to do the research & then gets the new wheels to boot!

    10 days and counting-- loving my Rondo. I think that it is such a nice smooth ride-- my husband & the boys took it for a ride this weekend (Audi, Saab & BMW drivers) and the LOVED the handling, power and smoothness. 182 HP is quite enough to get a thrill apexing in an offramp apparently. I was riding behind them in a friends mini-van (a behemoth of a vehicle, let me tell you) and the Rondo looked small-- you could see the entire outline of the SUV ahead of it-- but the guys didn't notice that at all-- between the excellent visability and the spacious seats (two guys over 6') they "forgot" they were in my "tall wagon".

    We are getting installed today an Eclipse nav system (AVN6610) & head-set mounted monitors for the back seats. I'm back to driving my old Honda wagon today, & I notice the low to the groundness of the station wagon--I couldn't see around the traffic to make a hairy-ish left turn, & aready I see the benefit of being "up high" when moving through morning traffic. Also, I noticed the gas lever was at 1/2 with 200 miles on the tank. The Rondo is also at 1/2, with 150 miles on it. That is a bit of a bummer, especially driving by the discount gas station where the 87 grade is $3.06. :(

    I hope someone finds this information useful!
  • spoolespoole Member Posts: 15
    You bet the info is useful. Nothing like having a new owner comment on a product. You're right...the wife is staying and so will another car (soon).I'm pleased to hear you are happy with the Rondo. We are leaning toward it even without my wife having seen it (yet). Today she will see and drive one. We like the pricepoint, features, and warranty. I also feel the Koreans are trying very hard to produce good quality. My Azera may be the best quality car I've ever owned. Thinking it was a patriotic gesture; I had always bought USA cars prior to the Azera (10/06). Now I see what a difference offshore manufacturers can be. Thanks for input on Rondo.
  • arumagearumage Member Posts: 922
    It looks like it is getting right around the city mileage for the Rondo (20mpg). I was surprised to find the Rondo has more storage behind the front row than the Outlander even though it is about 4" shorter (74.4 cu ft vs 72.6 cu ft).
  • coolmazda5coolmazda5 Member Posts: 525
    Thanks dnatoday. I should admit that, for what is worth, this thread has made me take a closer look to the Rondo :P. I'm not convinced yet, but to my point in your reply, I was also surprised about the low gas mileage of the V6. Your comment may support it better.

    dnatoday replied:
    Also, I noticed the gas lever was at 1/2 with 200 miles on the tank. The Rondo is also at 1/2, with 150 miles on it. That is a bit of a bummer, especially driving by the discount gas station where the 87 grade is $3.06


    An here is the excerpt from the article read in cars.com (the V6 engine). I won't post the link itself as it takes you to a non-Edmunds blog (non-written rule about online forums/blogs, but I can send you a private message if interested). Here we go:
    "On the downside, while driving the Rondo for a couple of days, it only got about 15 mpg. That's not enough for a car this small; perhaps a six-speed transmission down the road could help get that number up"

    Well for the rest, you sound happy about the purchase, so that is the relevant part ;)
  • csandstecsandste Member Posts: 1,866
    My wife bought an Optima. If we didn't already have a Malibu Maxx we would have probably bought the Rondo. Very, very pleasant. As an option, the new Elantra wagon will be coming out. Much better than the plug-ugly (IMHO) Elantra sedan.

    http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/23/us-bound-hyundai-bringing-i30-wagon-as-elantra-in-08/
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