The Rondo LX ($18,495) comes with air conditioning, remote keyless entry, cruise control, a 60/40 fold-flat rear seat, and power windows, locks and mirrors. The LX is also available in a base version without remote entry and cruise control ($17,495).

The Rondo EX ($21,295) adds leather trim, 17-inch alloy wheels, chrome grille, door handles and molding, fog lamps, heated mirrors, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, lights for the vanity mirrors, and a CD/MP3 six-speaker sound system. Optional is the Premium Package with the eight-speaker Infinity sound system, sunroof, and navigation ($2400).

The LX V6 ($19,495) and EX V6 ($22,295) are equipped similarly to the four-cylinder versions of the respective trim levels but add the more powerful V6 engine.

Options include the third-row seat ($650), and a body kit ($995) consisting of a front spoiler, rear valance, side sill skirts, wheel arch moldings and a rear lower spoiler. Roof rails come standard, but the crossbars to make them functional are optional ($200). A cargo cover is available as a dealer accessory.

Safety equipment on every Rondo includes front airbags, side airbags in front, full-length airbag curtains (including for third-row seats), active front headrests, anti-lock disc brakes, electronic stability control, and a government mandated tire pressure monitor. Kia should be commended for giving the attractively-priced Rondo such a healthy complement of safety features for the money.