160 hp @ 6000 rpm (approximate, varies slightly by market)
Torque 1:
162 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approximate, varies slightly by market)
Optional Engine
Engine Code 2:
G6BA
Engine Description 2:
2.7L V6 MPI (Multi-Point Injection)
Displacement 2:
2656 cc (2.7 Liters)
Horsepower 2:
185 hp @ 6000 rpm (approximate)
Torque 2:
182 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (approximate)
Performance
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Economy Rating 2.4L:
Approx. 20 MPG City / 27 MPG Highway (Varies by transmission and driving conditions)
Fuel Economy Rating 2.7L:
Approx. 18 MPG City / 25 MPG Highway (Varies by transmission and driving conditions)
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic (F4A51)
Optional
Optional Transmission Type:
5-Speed Automatic (Less common for 2008 model year, check specific vehicle)
Features
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF SP-III or equivalent (refer to manual for specific part number and capacity)
Drivetrain Layout:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
174.6 inches (4435 mm)
Width:
71.7 inches (1820 mm)
Height:
63.4 inches (1610 mm)
Wheelbase:
104.3 inches (2650 mm)
Front Track:
61.7 inches (1568 mm)
Rear Track:
61.8 inches (1570 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight 2.4L:
Approx. 3,300 - 3,500 lbs (1497 - 1588 kg)
Curb Weight 2.7L:
Approx. 3,500 - 3,700 lbs (1588 - 1678 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4,500 - 4,700 lbs (2041 - 2132 kg)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5-Star (for some configurations)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5-Star (for some configurations)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:
5-Star (for some configurations)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:
4-Star (for some configurations)
IIHS Front Crash:
Good (for some configurations)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for some configurations)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)
Traction Control:
Optional (TCS)
Electronic Stability Control:
Optional (ESC/ESP)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Frontal, Side-Curtain (standard or optional depending on trim)
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
AM/FM/CD player with available MP3 playback and satellite radio compatibility. Aux input common.
Display:
Central dashboard display for audio and climate control. Higher trims may offer more integrated displays.
Driver Assistance
Parking Assist:
Rear parking sensors were an available option on some trims.
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
Standard on most models for audio device connectivity.
Usb Port:
Less common on 2008 models, might be present on premium audio systems or later production runs of the generation.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Engine Oil Change:
Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or 6-12 months (whichever comes first, refer to manual)
Oil Filter Replacement:
At each oil change
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (or every 30,000 miles)
Cabin Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (or every 15,000-30,000 miles)
Spark Plugs 2.4L:
Replace every 105,000 miles (Platinum or Iridium plugs)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 60,000 to 100,000 miles (severe usage may require more frequent changes)
Coolant Flush:
Initial flush at 60,000 miles, then every 30,000-50,000 miles thereafter
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type 2.4L:
SAE 5W-20 API SM or higher
Engine Oil Capacity 2.4L:
Approx. 4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change
Engine Oil Type 2.7L:
SAE 5W-30 API SM or higher
Engine Oil Capacity 2.7L:
Approx. 4.7 US quarts (4.4 liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water (refer to manual for Kia specified type, e.g., Long Life Coolant)
Known Issues
Engine Hesitation:
Can occur due to fouled spark plugs, dirty fuel injectors, or faulty EGR valve.
Transmission Slipping:
May indicate low fluid levels, worn clutch packs, or solenoid issues; requires diagnostic attention.
Suspension Noise:
Worn bushings, ball joints, or strut mounts can cause clunking or rattling sounds.
HVAC Blower Issues:
Blower motor resistor failures or worn blower motors can lead to erratic fan speeds or no fan operation.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Kia Heritage:
Kia Motors Corporation, founded in 1944, is a South Korean automobile manufacturer. Known for offering reliable and value-oriented vehicles.
Model Evolution
Kia Rondo First Gen Intro:
The Kia Rondo (also known as Kia Carens in some markets) was introduced globally in 2006 as a compact MPV with a focus on practicality and versatility.
Kia Rondo 2008 Updates:
The 2008 model represents part of the first generation, receiving minor updates and potentially trim level adjustments based on market feedback. The core platform and powertrain options remained largely consistent with the initial launch.
Production
Manufacturing Plant:
Hwaseong Plant, South Korea (primary)
Production Period First Gen:
2006 - 2013
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
IIHS Top Safety Pick Predecessor:
While the Rondo itself might not have specific awards for 2008, its platform and Kia's general focus on safety contributed to positive safety ratings in its class.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings vary; consult specific Consumer Reports archives for detailed historical data for the 2008 Rondo.
Certifications
Emissions Standards:
Meets U.S. EPA emissions standards for the model year (e.g., Tier 2 Bin 5).