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Mazda 5 vs Kia Rondo
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Comments
Link:
http://www.carspace.com/coolmazda5/Albums/mazda5%20cargo/mazda5_parking_slide_do- - - ors_versatility.jpg/photo/v./photo.jpg
Image (right click on it, it is faster than writing 10 paragraphs ):
It's odd but on your last entry, you said right click on the box with the "x" ('cause thats all I was seeing), the picture inserted. Prior to that I had gone back to your other recent entries #291 the pictures were showing, but #296 and #299 were not - just the "x" in the box, but when I right clicked on your last entry #307 the picture inserted as I mentioned, but that those pictures on #296 and #299 also were opened. I had no problem with any of your links. As you mentioned this site is not very user friendly and don't make things very clear, but now we know.
the picture #307 looks okay for the kids getting in the back with the sliding door but how does the driver get in? Must have to get in the back and climb into the front as it doesn't look like the drivers door would open far enough to get in.
Like you, I also picked up the package to save shipping charges to get it home, but I was able to close the rear door. I think the M5 has a slight advantage on the tailgate opening over the Rondo, because it seems to be more square, where the Rondo tapers more as you go to the top. However, the Rondo has more length to the back of the front seats. When I was checking both vehicles out I took my tape measure and came up with these figures:
height at rear door opening: Rondo - 33", M5 - 35.5"
floor depth to front seats: Rondo - 68", M5 - 65"
between wheel wells: Rondo - 40", M5 - 40"
rear floor to ground: Rondo - 27", M5 - 26.5"
They are both great vehicles, but I'm sure a lot of this information will be of value to anyone out there reading this trying to decide which way to go, we can only provide our own observations for our own personal use that can only be provided by an owner.
About the "my box is bigger than your box" thingy, umm, I wasn't being totally serious with my comments, ya know. In any case, I was just curious about why you would use that photo to demonstrate the cargo capacity of your vehicle when the cargo didn't actually fit. But I now get it that it was more about showing off what the vehicle can do (a "wow" Kodak moment) rather than what the vehicle can actually hold.
I did not perform any detailed measurements, but my wife did some homework (she is the original driver of my first MZ5, the car that started it all ). I won't go into details but she said in summary: it is IKEA compliant, it fits many of the average boxes they use when you buy anything there with no trouble. That, to me, is more than enough.
Exhibit A:
Exhibit B:
Exhibit C:
You see what I'm getting at? They all look like the Rondo.
Everyone knows that the Rondo looks like a jelly bean on wheels. It's as plain as day, obvious as sin, hotter than Georgia asphalt.
What's the connection with Daffy? Rondo = duck's head. Case closed.
Sleepwalker was right and I was wrong, the Rondo is a toon. Hey, I'm man enough to admit when I'm wrong. The Rondo and Benny the Cab from "Who Framed Roger Rabbit?": Separated At Birth.
So read my lips, guys. Kids love Benny the Cab. Kids adore Daffy Duck. Kids jones for jelly beans.
And you're trying to tell me that the Rondo ain't kid-friendly? Oh puleeze.
...Then again, the Rondo is freakin' ugly and scares the crap out of kids. Never mind.
Back to topic, here is a pic of one load that was able to close the gate, albeit I needed to move the front seats forward to drive (not comfortable). For sure the reply will be that the storm door in the carton box is too thin so it does not represent a full cargo capacity :P
Link:
http://www.carspace.com/coolmazda5/Albums/mazda5%20cargo/mazda5_loaded_002.jpg/p- - - hoto/v./photo.jpg
Image:
My real opinion about the way the Rondo looks has changed with time. When I first got it, I loved the way it looked. Then, I thought it was bland. Now, I've read a number of comments and reviews about how the Rondo looks quite smart from certain angles, but ungainly from other angles. I tend to agree with that.
Mrbwa1 was very perceptive (and I'm only saying that because I see it the same way) when he said that the Rondo "looks VERY different depending on the trim level and paint color." I love the way my Rondo EX looks in "urban grey." The Rondo (to my eyes) seems to suffer in other colours.
As for the M5's looks, I don't really get why some people think that it's hot. To me, it looks like a door-stop wedge. Its "cool" appears more tacked on than inherent (a poseur). But I do agree that the M5's looks do not polarize opinions as much as the Rondo's looks do. With the Rondo, it dares to be different (depending on one's opinion, that doesn't necessarily mean that it's purty).
Conwelpic also made a good point about your pic of the M5 in a tight parking space. In actual practice, would you (or more importantly, your wife) park in that narrow of a parking spot, especially if you have difficulty opening the passenger and driver doors? I know you have the option of climbing through to the rear and exiting through the sliding doors, which is more of a hassle than just opening your own door, so my first instinct and preference would be to park where I wouldn't have to do that.
As for me, I really haven't had any issues with parking and unloading/loading the Rondo in the urban nightmare that I live in. Hypothetically, it would seem that I would have all kinds of trouble opening doors in those tight mall parking lots, but in practice, it hasn't been that big of a deal. If it were, I would be certainly bitchin' about it. I guess it's because I, and most people out there, have never owned a vehicle with sliding doors before, so we're used to making due with what we've got. If I had sliding doors, I probably would decide that I couldn't live without it.
Finally, I have been silent about your thesis on who is the typical M5 audience and who is the typical Rondo audience (i.e., post #288). That's not a tacit agreement with your thesis--I just found it too speculative and overreaching to make any concrete comments on it. Nevertheless, when you focused your attention on one aspect of your thesis (the kid-friendly stuff) and made a detailed case, it did sound very compelling.
Anyway, I'm spending way too much time with reading and posting here (I've always been quite self-deprecating about my over-long, self-indulgent posts). Me thinks I'm taking a break.
I thought no contemporary Asian designed car would sport one, but at least more console space as you mention. Thanks for the pic!
Link, in case the image does not come up:
http://www.carspace.com/coolmazda5/Albums/mazda5%20cargo/mazda5_ikea_compliance_- - 02.jpg/photo/v./photo.jpg
Check out a CX-7 or CX-9! :P
Good to know. Fine cars, but I'm not into SUVs so I never checked them out (I drove a CX-7 for a quick test drive but never noticed where the parking brake was).
According to the guide the Rondo is classified as a station wagon (KIA states it this way too in their VIN code numbers).
It is funny, but if you compare it to any minivan (which I think they have kept the term mini just to distract the consumer) it wins hands-down, except in weight and space
Yeah, in the US has also won the "A Lowest True Cost To Own" vehicle for January 2008. Again, compared to "minivans" of course this one costs peanuts, especially gas . Also regular services are very inexpensive compared to others
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/displayPage.action?pageParameter=modelsPress&veh- - icleCode=MZ5
And talking about fuel:
IntelliChoice Excellent Value and Best in Class Award Winner
* Lowest Fuel Costs in Class
* Lowest Operating Costs in Class
* Lowest Ownership Costs in Class
— IntelliChoice.com 02.2008
Having owned/driven it now since October, I've been asked many times "what exactly is a Rondo?" It is asked either by friends who've driven in it and are quite impressed (by its cargo room, driving characteristics, 7 seats, and good mpg) or by friends and family from afar who want to know about my new car.
My own tailored answer is that it's essentially a "microvan." Smaller than all other minivans, FWD, 5-7 seating, lots of hauling room, car-like drive. That's how I view it in my mind. It is only un-minivan like in not having an AWD option nor sliding side doors.
If we were in Europe or Asia they would have a proper, more realistic classification:
- Compact MPV (Multi Purpose Vehicle)
- MAV (Multi Activity Vehicle)
- Space Wagon
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Compact_MPV
Oh well it will take time I guess (if the Mazda5 and Rondo models don't disappear first in favor of a small SUV or a crossover XX whatever)
IRVINE, Calif., Feb. 20 /PRNewswire/ -- The 2008 Kia Rondo was named a "Best Value" by Parents Magazine and Edmunds.com in their annual list of Best Family Cars. Parents cited the optional third row, allowing seating for seven, as just one of the reasons the Rondo is a good choice for families.
The full report can be found here;
http://www.earthtimes.org/articles/show/kia-rondo-named-to-parents-magazine-and-- edmundscom-best-family,286202.shtml
John
http://www.parents.com/parents/slideshow/slideShow.jsp?slideid=/templatedata/par- - - ents/slideshow/data/1202324985924.xml&page=1
Added:
Also this should mean that the 2008 has been finally launched in the US I believe. Any new stuff compared to the 2007?
Rondo sales: 3616 units
The MAZDA5 multi-activity vehicle, which has been freshened for 2008, sold 2,021 units, a 29.1 percent increase, and the best month for the vehicle since March, 2006
Mazda Canada, Inc. reported February sales of 5,810 units, up 12.4 percent, and their best-ever February. Additionally, Mazda Canada reported best-ever February sales for MAZDA5, MX-5 and B-Series. Year-to-date, MCI reports 10,542 vehicles sold, up 9.3 percent.
1. I felt that the rondo had more room overall (seating and cargo), although this has been hard to prove/disprove because the cargo room calculations on vehicles must have been different methods. If you've looked at both, I would be certain that most people would side with the Rondo on space.
2. More seating options (this has already been discussed in great detail).
3. I liked the look better than the M5, A lot of this has to do with the sliding doors. I think the M5 looks like a "microvan" because of these. The "sporty" look and the "microvan" oxymoron appearance does not work for me. I describe the Rondo as a tall station wagon or hatcback. However, I agree that the different colors make a huge difference in the Rondo's appearance. I have black, but would have also accepted urban gray. I don't like the lighter colors on the Rondo because how the black trim/grill contrasts with the color. The beige shown in the edmunds review doesn't do the black or gray Rondos justice. (This is my opinion, so no offense other Rondo owners).
4. Price: cheaper than the used M5 that Kia had on the lot
5. The drive was great. Honestly didn't notice much difference between the M5, but I'll take your word and most reviewers words for it that the M5 handles better. But, Rondo had ESC and ABS standard, which resulted in a safer feel.
My only hang-up was that it was a Kia. I am a previous Mazda owner (87 323 -- Great reliable car) and a firm believer in Japanese cars. But the waranty and the more recent improvements in reliablility made me feel comfortable.
Also, please see my pic showing cargo room. This is a standard size Range/Oven new in the box that slid easily into the Rondo with the back seats down. I know I was impressed. I wonder if the M5 can do the same.
Full-Size Link
The Mazda5 hatch opening is around: 34" (86.36cm) Height, 40" (101.6cm) Width. Your box looks tall so that may be an issue.
Any picture with all the occupants (5 or 7 seater)? Something like this?
Mazda 5 - 1028
As for some real-world pics of the Rondo maxed out with people inside (as opposed to that photoshopped advertisement of people in the M5 with the roof and side ripped off), how about this? Now that's some capacity. Strangely enough, that's the type of cargo I also like to haul around.
BTW, I haven't been following this thread since I last posted (in case anyone asked me anything earlier) and that ain't likely to change (need to pick and choose where to spend my time, eh).
2nd pic, yes, that is usually the way I load my car during the weekend, very realistic . I have not received a check though
You may have not missed to much, nobody has asked anything really (apart from me on some box dimensions), new pics have answered most of the questions, no strings attached. Oh, I also attached the Mazda5 convertible. Yes, WITH the roof pictured it would have been impossible to seat those 6 souls
Thanks for the pics!
2008 Mazda 5
5 speed Manual
"Most overlooked cars - These aren't top sellers, but all are good values and perform well" listed the Mazda 5 and Kia Rondo
In the Vehicle Profiles section, they stated:
"Mazda 5 - The Mazda 5 has the utility of a small minivan yet is maneuverable, economical and affordable. Based on the Mazda 3, it delivers responsive handling, a comfortable ride, and a relatively quiet interior, although road noise is pronounced. Fuel economy was a decent 23 mpg (US) overall. The four-cylinder engine provides adequate performance but lacks reserve power when carrying full loads or climbing hills. A five-speed automatic is new for 2008. Visibility and acess are excellent. It has flexible seating for four passengers and their luggage, or it can accommodate six with minimal cargo. Reliability has been average"
"Kia Rondo - The Rondo offers an impressive amount of room for its compact size. With seating for up to seven, it has minivanlike utility with the dimensions of a small car. It competes mainly with the six-passenger Mazda 5. Built on the same platform as the Kia Optima, the Rondo also shares its 2.4 liter, four-cylinder engine, as well as the optional 2.7 liter V6. Fit and finish is very good, and access is very easy. The ride is comfortable and quiet, and the powertrain is refined. Handling is not particularly agile. Stability control and curtain air bags are standard"
drive - 2008 Rondo EX 2.4L
location - Prince Edward County, Ontario, Canada
Any reliability stories with the Rondo? Lemons, Issues?
I'll follow conwelpic. This forum is very poor in some areas, you cannot even have a signature:
drives - 2006 and 2008 Mazda5 5-speed manual transmission, US
your right coolmazda5, I was trying to do that so I don't have to repeat it with each entry, maybe the designers of this forum will take a hint and get up to date with most of the other forums. Can you even put in a avatar?
Drive - 2008 Rondo EX 2.4L
Location - Prince Edward Country, Ontario, Canada
It is not a daily thing that you buy the same car again based on the 1st one reliability, versatility and satisfaction...
drives - 2006 and 2008 Mazda5 5-speed manual transmission, US
BTW, something related to this topic:
Mazda Claims Top Spot in Recent Reliability Survey. Feb 19, 2008
Warranty DIRECT ‘Reliability League Table’ 2007 TOP 10 RESULTS
Manufacturer Incidence Rate %*
1 Mazda 8.04
2 Honda 8.90
3 Toyota 15.78
4 Mitsubishi 17.04
5 Kia 17.39
6 Subaru 18.46
7 Nissan 18.86
8 Lexus 20.05
9 Mini 21.90
10 Citroen 25.98
* Number of mechanical failures reported by policy holders for every 100 vehicles aged between three and nine years old.
Source: Mazda USA Web Site. Inside Mazda (Press Release)
http://www.carspace.com/coolmazda5/Albums/mazda5%20cargo/mazda5_parking_slide_do- ors_versatility.jpg/photo/v./photo.jpg
http://www.carspace.com/coolmazda5/Albums/mazda5%20cargo/mazda5_4_kids_versatili- ty.jpg
Although it's adept at hauling a variety of gear, the Kia is less proficient at transporting a full load of adults: "We drove over to a restaurant with seven passengers, and the engine and suspension felt tapped out-it's clearly not made for adult passengers all of the time."
And this also goes for the Mazda5 for sure, except that in NA it is only 6 passengers load...
Source:
http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/oneyear/112_0804_2007_kia_rondo_update/
source:
http://www.premacy.mazda.co.jp/narrowband
The Mazda5
http://www.motherproof.com/2006/10/2007_mazda_5_to.html
The Rondo
http://www.motherproof.com/2007/07/2007-kia-rondo.html
KIA - 3,156 vs 2,829 for 2007 an increase of 11.6%
Mazda - 9,055 vs 8,108 for 2007 an increase of 11.7%
(do not have model breakdown for Canada)
US:
KIA - 24,871 vs 27,567
Rondo - 2,811 vs 1,514 for March 2007
Mazda - 32,929 vs 37,742 for 2007 a 12.8% decrease
However, sales of the Mazda 5 increase by 66.4% to 2,758 vs 1,657
Ease of loading gear: 9 — It's a small car, but there’s plenty of room.
Ease of seat operation: 4.5 — Third row nice, second row not.
Bike hauling: 9 — Again, small on the outside, nice and big on the inside.
Locker-room cred: 7 — It's a minivan, but it doesn't scream “Mom wouldn’t let Dad take the cool car to the races!” the way others do. No faux-macho crap either.
All-around: 7.5
Source:
http://blogs.cars.com/kickingtires/2008/04/weekend-athlete.html
Rondo - 764 (2007 - 407)
Year to date - 2,194 (2007 - 1,066) - over 100% increase!
Mazda 5 - 1,560 (2007 - 1024)
Year to date - 3,323 (2007 - 2,367)
looks like Mazda is doing extremely well with their new Mazda 5 and a lot of Canadians are enjoying it. It appears that the niche market these two vehicles occupy is coming along in leaps and bounds!
to give you an idea about a couple of the so-called competitors:
HHR - 360
PT Cruiser - 275
Drives: 2008 Rondo EX, 5-seater, 2.4L
Location: Prince Edward County, Ontario, Canada