2013 Kia Rondo to debut at Sydney motor show

The fourth-generation Rondo – revealed here for the first time in right-hand drive, following the unveiling of the European-specification Carens at last month's Paris motor show – becomes the latest model in Kia's line-up to embrace the styling language of chief designer Peter Schreyer.

The 2013 Kia Rondo exudes newfound confidence and maturity, sporting tighter lines, swept-back headlights and the brand’s signature ‘tiger nose’ grille.

At 4525mm long, 1805mm wide and 1610mm tall, the new Rondo is 20mm shorter, 15mm narrower and 40mm lower than the outgoing model, yet cabin space has grown thanks to a larger wheelbase (now 2750mm, up 50mm) and smarter packaging.

Kia Australia chief operating officer Tony Barlow says the new Rondo will appeal to drivers who need the flexibility of a seven-seater but don’t want to drive an SUV.

“The new Rondo will have great appeal to families with an active lifestyle who don‘t want to compromise between style and practicality,” Barlow said.

Kia Australia is yet to finalise its powertrain line-up, but revealed to CarAdvice last month that a 130kW/211Nm 2.0-litre petrol engine will be available from the car's launch. The four-cylinder unit encourages the compact people-mover from 0-100km/h in 9.7 seconds.

A 100kW/330Nm 1.7-litre four-cylinder diesel is also on the local division’s wish list.

Cruise control will be standard across all models, while an electric park brake, smart key with push-button engine start, climate control, panoramic glass sunroof and a six-speaker audio system with amplifier and subwoofer will be available on high-grade models.

Other innovative features offered in Europe but so far unconfirmed for our market, include lane departure warning, reverse parking assist, rear-view camera and xenon headlamps.

Stay tuned for more news on the Kia Rondo following its debut at tomorrow’s 2012 Sydney motor show.