The standard engine for the 2007 Kia Rondo is a 2.4-liter 162-horsepower four-cylinder that is mated to a four-speed automatic. With 164 lb.-ft. of torque at 4250 rpm and a flat torque band, the engine is flexible, with plenty of grunt to keep the Rondo going even up steep grades. Fuel economy is also good with 21 mpg in the city and 29 on the highway. The main drawback is engine noise. While quiet at idle or while cruising, it gets thrashy at high revs or under a significant load. The automatic could use a little polish as well, with occasionally harsh downshifts and abrupt upshifts. A manual shifting gate is available, but largely ignorable.