Families, individuals seeking practical, versatile, and affordable transportation with a higher seating position than a sedan but more maneuverability than a traditional SUV.
Competitive Analysis
Key Competitors:
Toyota Matrix, Pontiac Vibe, Mazda5, Ford Focus Wagon.
Key Features
Body Style:
5-door compact MPV with a raised ride height and available third-row seating (optional on some trims/markets).
Versatility:
Flexible interior packaging, fold-flat seating, ample cargo space, making it practical for everyday use and weekend adventures.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Applicable Model Years:
2007, 2008, 2009
Trim Levels Covered:
All trim levels (e.g., LX, EX)
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Thousands (typical factory manual depth)
Manual Type
Manual Type:
Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
Downloadable PDF
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul and repair procedures for all engine variants, including cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing systems, lubrication system, cooling system.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control systems (EGR, EVAP), engine control module (ECM) diagnostics and repair, sensor and actuator testing.
Transmission Automatic:
Disassembly, inspection, assembly, torque converter, valve body, electronic controls, hydraulic system, fluid and filter service, common issues.
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, troubleshooting electrical faults.
Body And Frame:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim, exterior trim, chassis repairs, corrosion protection.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system components, refrigerant types, charging procedures, compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, climate control module.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (SRS), seat belt mechanisms, pre-tensioners, diagnostics and replacement procedures.
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, common fault codes and their causes, electrical circuit diagnosis.
Repair And Overhaul:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, repair, reassembly, and installation, including torque specifications.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) system information, scan tool usage, sensor data interpretation, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) retrieval and clearing.
Component Replacement:
Procedures for replacing common wear items and major components such as timing belts/chains, water pumps, alternators, starter motors, fuel pumps, radiators, brakes, suspension parts.
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Print Quality
Print Quality:
High-resolution scans of original factory documentation, ensuring clarity of text, diagrams, and images. Printable.
Binding Type
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Download - PDF)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download - PDF)
Searchability
Searchability:
Typically searchable text within PDF, allowing for quick location of specific topics or keywords.
Licensing
Licensing:
Licensed for personal use; no expiry dates.
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code:
G4GC (for 2.0L), G4KA (for 2.7L)
Displacement:
2.0L (1998 cc) or 2.7L (2656 cc) V6
Cylinder Layout:
Inline-4 (2.0L) or V6 (2.7L)
Valve Train:
DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft), 4 valves per cylinder
Performance
Horsepower 2.0L:
Approx. 142-145 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque 2.0L:
Approx. 136-139 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Horsepower 2.7L V6:
Approx. 182 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque 2.7L V6:
Approx. 181 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Recommended Octane:
87 octane (for 2.0L), 87 octane recommended (for 2.7L V6, though higher may provide marginal benefits)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type 2.0L:
5-speed manual transmission
Optional
Transmission Type 2.0L Optional:
4-speed automatic transmission
Transmission Type 2.7L V6:
5-speed automatic transmission
Features
Drive Type:
Front-wheel drive (FWD)
Transmission Fluid Spec Auto:
KIA SPII-11 or equivalent (check manual for exact specification, often ATF-SP II M or SP-III)
Transmission Fluid Spec Manual:
GL-4 SAE 75W-90 (check manual for exact specification)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 174.5 inches (4432 mm)
Width:
Approx. 68.7 inches (1745 mm)
Height:
Approx. 63.6 inches (1615 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 104.3 inches (2649 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 6.0 inches (152 mm)
Cargo
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
Approx. 31.7 cu ft (898 liters)
Cargo Volume With 2Nd Row Folded:
Approx. 66.1 cu ft (1872 liters)
Weights
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 3,100 - 3,500 lbs (1406 - 1588 kg) depending on engine and trim
Towing Capacity:
Not typically rated for towing; check local regulations and manual for specific trailer weight limits if equipped.
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Driver Impact:
Good (for 2007 model, check specific year)
NHTSA Front Passenger Impact:
Good (for 2007 model, check specific year)
NHTSA Side Driver Impact:
Good (for 2007 model, check specific year)
NHTSA Side Rear Passenger Impact:
Good (for 2007 model, check specific year)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:
Good (for 2007 model, check specific year)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)
Ebd:
Standard (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)
Traction Control:
Optional on some trims
Electronic Stability Control:
Optional on some trims
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, available side curtain airbags for front and second rows.
Seat Belts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters in all seating positions.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Standard CD player with AM/FM radio, often with auxiliary input jack. Higher trims may feature premium audio systems, steering wheel audio controls, and an in-dash 6-disc CD changer.
Navigation System:
Optional factory-installed navigation system available on higher trims.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Rear Parking Sensors:
Optional on some trims.
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
Standard on most models for audio devices.
Usb Port:
Not commonly available on this generation; typically relies on auxiliary input.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended). Check manual for severe driving conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 7,500 miles, replace as needed or every 15,000-30,000 miles depending on conditions.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Replace every 15,000 miles or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement 2.0L:
Approximately every 100,000 miles (check manual for specific type).
Timing Belt Replacement:
The 2.0L engine uses a timing chain; the 2.7L V6 uses a timing belt. Replace timing belt on V6 every 90,000 miles or 7 years, whichever comes first. Critical maintenance item.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type 2.0L:
SAE 5W-20, API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified (or later specification if compatible)
Engine Oil Capacity 2.0L:
Approx. 4.2 quarts (4.0 liters) with filter change
Engine Oil Type 2.7L V6:
SAE 5W-30, API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified (or later specification if compatible)
Engine Oil Capacity 2.7L V6:
Approx. 5.1 quarts (4.8 liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Antifreeze/coolant, ethylene glycol based, meeting KIA specification (typically a Type 0 or HOAT coolant in the correct color, often orange/red)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 7.6 quarts (7.2 liters) for 2.0L, 8.5 quarts (8.0 liters) for 2.7L V6 (check manual)
Known Issues
Common Problems:
Occasional reports of oil leaks from valve cover gaskets or oil pan, ABS sensor failures, minor electrical gremlins, and early wear on suspension components (bushings).
Timing Belt Maintenance V6:
Crucial to adhere to the timing belt replacement schedule on the 2.7L V6; failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Manufacturer:
KIA Motors Corporation (South Korea)
Model Evolution
Introduction Year:
2004 (as Cerato/Spectra hatchback in some markets), 2006 (North America as Rondo)
First Generation Period:
2007-2009 (North American market designation)
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
South Korea (primarily)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Safety Awards:
Received good ratings in NHTSA and IIHS crash tests for its model years, indicating a solid safety structure.
Ratings
Initial Quality Ratings:
Generally competitive with its peers in its class for initial quality, though long-term reliability can vary.