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Mazda 5 vs Kia Rondo

806 messages,  Last post on Nov 26, 2009 at 2:38 PM

You are in the Mazda Mazda5 Forum. Your Host is Karens

What is this discussion about? Mazda MAZDA5, Kia Rondo, Car Comparisons, Car Buying, Wagon


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#135 of 806
Re: difficulty choosing [zbx] by w9cw
Feb 24, 2007 (6:26 am)
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Replying to: zbx (Feb 21, 2007 5:54 pm)

zbx - The Rondo is a first year model, but essentially only here in the States. The Rondo marketed here is the 3rd Generation Kia Carens everywhere else in the world, except perhaps Canada. The underpinnings are quite well sorted out already.
#136 of 806
Re: difficulty choosing [bren] by mom2sydney
Feb 24, 2007 (8:20 pm)
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Replying to: bren (Feb 21, 2007 3:23 pm)

I was set on getting the Mazda5 because I wanted a small-ish 6-7 seater that would easily fit my family of 4 and the occasional guest(s) of my kids. After test driving the 5 two separate times, I couldn't help feeling that I was missing something with all the rave reviews of the 5 that I had read. I didn't feel that the ride was all that great and the interior just felt cheap for some reason (even on the GT version with the leather seats!) It also looked like a minivan which was something I definitely didn't want. I was almost ready to "settle" for a 5 but then decided to look at the Rondo.
 
I hadn't even really considered it because it was Kia (after owning Subarus, Volvos, Chryslers and Toyotas I considered Kia a step backward) but after taking an extended test drive, the Rondo grew on me. The interior fit and finish was way better than what I expected. It felt similar to the Volvo V40 I previously owned in terms of ride and interior quality and I loved that car.
 
The dealer didn't have any EXV6 models but found one for me to test drive the next day. The EXV6 was really sharp in leather and a tad smoother but I didn't think the difference in engine was all that great. I ended up buying the LX with the 3rd row and convenience package and find myself making every excuse imagineable to drive it because I enjoy driving it. I usually suffer from buyer's remorse but not this time. The Rondo was exactly what I needed (6-7 seats, good gas mileage, safety features, practical value) but surprised me with the added bonuses of being fun to drive and well appointed.
 
If you absolutely don't need the third row, there are more options but if it's a choice between the Mazda5 and the Rondo, I vote Rondo hands down.
#138 of 806
compared them at the auto show by conwelpic
Apr 17, 2007 (5:39 am)
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I was able to check out the M5 and Rondo at the Toronto Auto Show but found the Rondo more to my liking. On the M5 I did not like the rear sliding doors or the black only interior (felt too enclosed), also did not like the rear storage area as it was not a solid floor with the seats flat (we have a golden retriever and could step in the gaps); not as much underfloor storage as the Rondo. Had no use for the third seating and preferred the second seater to be for three across if required.
 
There is also much more standard features on the Rondo (comparing it to the Rondo EX L4 model); more storage with the seats down; greater leg and headroom; better fuel mileage. The Rondo definitely the clear winner.
 
It will be interesting to see how the sales compare as the year progresses as the M5 has had quite a head start.
#139 of 806
Comparison article by odman
May 15, 2007 (3:02 am)
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Here's a Canadian comparison article. I think the author said in a prior article that he bought a Rondo, so his conclusions may be influenced by that, but good press is good press:
http://www.canada.com/nationalpost/news/driving/story.html?id=fa1e4465-f7b5-47f4- -8c2e-4e68d95fd6f9
#140 of 806
Re: compared them at the auto show [conwelpic] by bobw3
May 15, 2007 (6:40 am)
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Replying to: conwelpic (Apr 17, 2007 5:39 am)

If you have no need for a 3rd row, then why not the Suburu Forrester or some other station wagon?
#141 of 806
Re: compared them at the auto show [bobw3] by conwelpic
May 15, 2007 (3:49 pm)
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Replying to: bobw3 (May 15, 2007 6:40 am)

did check out the Subaru Forester at the same auto show, not bad but was really turned off by the fact that the door windows have no frame - not a very secure feature. They are also $5000 more than the Rondo EX 4-cylinder. Ford Focus has dropped their wagon. Too bad we don't have the selection in MPV's that they have in the UK.
There is a good under floor storage area on the Rondo. When you compare it feature for feature and the price you pay, it takes some beating - but appreciate any feedback as I won't be making a move till the 2008 models arrive.
#142 of 806
Re: compared them at the auto show [bobw3] by csandste
May 16, 2007 (12:24 am)
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Replying to: bobw3 (May 15, 2007 6:40 am)

I looked closely at the Forester before buying a Malibu Maxx. I looked at the Rondo before buying my wife an Optima.
 
IMHO, the Optima is a newer and more enjoyable package than the Forester, although I liked both vehicles.
#143 of 806
Re: compared them at the auto show [csandste] by conwelpic
May 16, 2007 (7:07 am)
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Replying to: csandste (May 16, 2007 12:24 am)

At first I didn't know what a Optima was but did some checking and its called the Magentis here in Canada. Nice vehicle but no good to me, as I need the versatility of a hatchback design. We've owned wagons, hatchbacks and sedans in the past and prefer the wagon/hatchback design the best. We have a large dog - Golden Retriever and our current sedan is not very good for "dog travel".
#144 of 806
Re: compared them at the auto show [csandste] by rwm2
May 16, 2007 (12:16 pm)
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Replying to: csandste (May 16, 2007 12:24 am)

In my opinion, Foresters are too small inside. The rear seat feels cramped. The Rondo is four inches wider than the Forester. Compared to the Rondo, the only thing going for the Forester is AWD.

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