2007 Chicago Auto Show: Kia Unveils Rondo SX Concept

Concept Displays Aggressive, Sporty Side of the All-New Kia Model

CHICAGO, Feb. 8 -- Kia Motors America (KMA) debuted its all-new crossover vehicle, the 2007 Kia Rondo, at the Los Angeles Auto Show just last November and has wasted no time enhancing its "Exciting and Enabling" brand direction with the Chicago International Auto Show introduction of the Rondo SX Concept. Already a capable vehicle -- Rondo is based on the current-generation Kia Optima platform -- the SX concept elevates the crossover to new heights by showing that practicality doesn't mean excitement is sacrificed.

"We have positioned the all-new 2007 Rondo as a vehicle of function and versatility," said Len Hunt, executive vice president and COO of KMA. "The Rondo SX Concept is proof that smart, spacious vehicles don't need to be boring, and that consumers can still be passionate about a daily driver."

The Rondo SX Concept is finished in a sophisticated four-stage metallic gray exterior color and reinforces its sporty theme with cues from current Kia SX-trimmed vehicles like the Rio and Spectra models, which include more aggressive front and rear fascias, sportier grille inserts and other exciting exterior details. Key front-end changes include a larger lower air intake, an integrated SX-styled front fascia, new brake cooling ducts as well as a restyled metal-mesh-insert front grille to match. Headlight inner rings also are darkened in color to complete the aggressive look.

Likewise, the rear fascia receives sportier treatment with a new metal-mesh vent insert, diffuser and dual exhaust outlets. Roof rails, which are standard on most Rondo models, have been removed for an aerodynamically cleaner look and the door handles and body-side moldings finished in a contrasting technical silver color to present a smooth and contemporary overall finish. The Rondo SX Concept is fitted with an optional accessory body kit currently available on LX and EX trim lines. However, on the SX concept model, the initially argent-colored lower rear spoiler, fender flares and rear/side fascia extensions of the body kit have been finished in a slightly contrasting metallic gray color. The vehicle sits on aggressive five-spoke, 18-inch alloy wheels fitted with 235/40R18 Michelin(R) Pilot Sport performance tires to complete its bold exterior stance.

On the inside, the Rondo SX Concept is enhanced with modern luxury sport materials and finishes. From the driver's seat an SX-familiar black leather-wrapped steering wheel with contrasting red stitching can be easily identified. The seats are trimmed in gray leather with custom contrasting red leather trim surrounding dark gray Alcantara(R) inserts. Dark gray Alcantara(R) and red leather accents also can be found on the front and rear door trim. Replacing the stock black parts are SX-styled brushed stainless steel sport pedals, as well as platinum-look accents for the center stack, shifter surround and door switch trims.

The Rondo SX Concept's 2.7-liter DOHC V6 has been enhanced with a cold-air intake and a cat-back exhaust system that yields an additional 10 horsepower to boost the engine's output to 192 horsepower. The SX Concept's ride height has been lowered approximately three inches to improve cornering and augment the sporty aesthetic. The vehicle also is equipped with cross-drilled and slotted front and rear brake rotors for enhanced braking performance.

Kia Motors America -- the sales, marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corp. in Seoul, South Korea -- offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 630 dealers throughout the United States. For more information, including photography, visit www.kiamedia.com.

Kia Rondo SX Features & Specifications

Exterior Dimensions
Length:  179.0 in. (4547mm)
Width:  71.7 in. (1821mm)
Height:  62.0 in. (1575mm)
Wheelbase:  106.3 in (2700mm)


Wheels & Tires
Wheels:  18-inch, five-spoke alloy
Tires:   235/40R18 Michelin® Pilot Sport


Exterior Features
•	Aggressive front fascia that matches styling of other Kia SX models
o	Larger lower intake
o	New brake cooling ducts
o	Integrated chin spoiler and fascia extensions
•	Restyled front grille with metal mesh grille insert
•	Black chrome door handles, body-side moldings and emblems to match front grille
•	Restyled rear fascia with new matrix-style vent with ground effects-style fence 
         diffuser and dual exhaust outlets
•	Darkened headlight inner coloring
•	Kia accessory body kit finished in slightly contrasting gray color
o	Fender flares
o	Rear and side fascia extensions
o	Lower rear spoiler
•	Roof rails removed for enhanced aerodynamic look


Interior Features
•	Stock gray leather seat trim bolsters with dark gray Alcantara® inserts 
         and contrasting red leather accents
•	Dark gray Alcantara® and red leather accents on door trim
•	Leather-wrapped steering wheel with contrasting red stitching
•	Platinum-look accents for center stack trim, shifter surround trim and 
         door switch trim
•	Brushed stainless steel sport pedals


Driving Functions
•	2.7L DOHC V6, 192HP
•	Custom fabricated cold-air intake system
•	Cat-back exhaust
•	Lowered ride height (approximately three inches)
•	Cross-drilled and slotted front and rear brake rotors