Overview & Reviews
Oh Kia Borrego, we hardly knew you. This large, old-school truck-based SUV went from all-new to all gone in a single model year. In retrospect, it wasn't a surprising fate. While most automakers couldn't crank out car-based crossover SUVs fast enough, Kia chose to utilize traditional body-on-frame construction, an available V8 engine and low-range gearing for models fitted with four-wheel drive. This approach gave the Borrego respectable off-road performance and towing capacity, but sales were dismal.
The Borrego itself was a pretty decent SUV. But even assuming you find one as a used-vehicle purchase, we'd recommend staying away. Its incredibly short production life will likely mean trouble getting parts down the road.
Most Recent Kia Borrego
The Kia Borrego midsize SUV debuted for 2009 and never lived to see another model year. It was available in two trim levels: LX and EX. Both models were available with a choice of two engines: a 3.8-liter V6 that cranked out 276 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, or a 4.6-liter V8 that produced 337 hp and 323 lb-ft of torque. Transmissions varied depending on engine choice, with the V6 models getting a five-speed automatic and V8 models a six-speed automatic. The base LX and EX were two-wheel drive, with four-wheel drive available as an option. Properly equipped, the V8 could tow a healthy 7,500 pounds.
The Borrego's exterior design was relatively clean and no-nonsense (you could say anonymous as well), with a somewhat low and wide stance that enhanced vehicle stability. Inside, the overall quality of materials was high, and for the most part, the layout of controls and instrumentation was straightforward and easy to use. All trims featured three rows of seating, giving it seven-person capacity, and were relatively easy to stow and put back into place. In terms of cargo space, with the 50/50 third-row seats folded flat, this SUV could swallow up plenty of gear, furniture and family pets. Unfortunately, with all the seats up, cargo capacity was reduced to a meager 12.4 cubic feet. The Borrego also lacked a power liftgate.
The Kia Borrego LX came standard with 17-inch wheels, roof rails, rear parking sensors, an integrated tow hitch and a six-speaker audio system with CD/MP3 player, satellite radio, USB port and an auxiliary jack. The EX trim added items like power front seats and dual-zone automatic climate control. The V8 versions of those trims added a few extra items. Option packages upgraded the audio system and added features such as leather seating, a rear-seat entertainment system and a navigation system.
In reviews, we found the V8 in particular to be capable of frisky acceleration and performance, but due to the truck-frame construction and dampening features of the suspension, the Kia Borrego felt a bit disconnected from the road. At times, the throttle and transmission felt sluggish and braking capabilities were average. Off-road performance was decent for a midsize SUV, although the lack of serious ground clearance may put off those customers who intend to plunge into truly rugged terrain. Altogether, though, this midsize SUV stood as a worthy if imperfect competitor.
User Reviews:
Showing 41 through 50 of 61.00-
Mr Big - 2009 Kia Borrego
By Ken Carter - July 23 - 5:30 am -
Bang For Your Buck - 2009 Kia Borrego
By Francie - June 22 - 1:06 pmJust purchased and so far love it. Never thought that I would own a vehicle without an American emblem on the front- felt a little guilty! I have had 3 Explorers in a row. However, a few days of driving it through a foot of snow up and down our mountainous driveway took care of that. I live in the mountains of WV(some people still need a real 4-wheel drive) Has good pick-up, smooth ride, and oh so roomy. I did not choose it for the gas mileage,as I am 2 miles from work. Tried to buy a Traverse- way out of line on pricing, for what you get-did not compare to the amenities that I got on the Borrego-esp.leather seat pkg.
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Love it - 2009 Kia Borrego
By Ohio Buyer - April 29 - 9:06 amWe have now had the Borrego for 1 week. Great purchase...7,000 off sticker. It is very comfortable and drives well. Traded in a 2001 Land Cruiser and the comfort and features are an upgrade while saving $40,000 on a new new Toyota. Now older and not doing the off-road stuff. This vehicle is very enjoyable.
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new to kia - 2009 Kia Borrego
By Dave - March 23 - 6:03 amFantastic car to drive. Lots of room!!!!! Ive received lots of positive remarks from friends and family about the comfort and great ride. Only negative...the rear door hatch only works manually.
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Great bang for buck - 2009 Kia Borrego
By mp - March 13 - 4:40 amI bought my kia in august of 09. I was debating between this and the pilot. I have been very happy with it this entire year and have not had a single problem. I get about 17/18 mpg, which is pretty good considering the size of the SUV. Great 3rd row with plenty of leg room for kids, a little tight for adults though. I also added running boards and a nav system for much cheaper than if you buy the limited version that comes with one.
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Kia Borrego - 2009 Kia Borrego
By SAHD - October 9 - 5:40 pmWent with the LX for expense and I didnt want leather or the Nav system. Just the basics with 4wd. Totally impressed so far with the mileage (around 20 highway). Handles well and rides very quietly. Very happy with the purchase so far. The true test will be the offroad ability (8.5 inches of ground clearance concerns me). I looked for 4 months in California at multiple different makes and models. My requirements: 4wd with third row seats and room in the back for adults. There are other choices out there; however, the Kia had the best fit for your family. Most importantly, the price was about $10K under the competition and they threw in a 10 year 100K mile warranty on everything.
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Great bargain - 2009 Kia Borrego
By Luis - July 3 - 2:00 amI never was considering buying a Kia but saw an ad with the borregos listed at a great price. I did some research on the borrego on the Internet and it got great reviews. I test drove it and was amazed at the vehicle. I have the 6 cly. It has great power and rides smooth. Turning radius is great. I have a Volvo xc90 and cars are similar except I paid almost $20,000 more for the Volvo. The Volvo has better leather and insulation for wind noise. Other than that I think the borrego is a great car for the price. Gas mileage could be better but its a good size SUV. My Volvo gets a little better gas mileage but needs premium gas. Overall the borrego is a decent car for the price I paid.
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Great SUV - 2009 Kia Borrego
By Ike - April 9 - 5:36 pmMy borrego has truly exceeded my expectations. The nav system is amazing for being an OEM item. I especially like how much space is available when the seats are folded down. Towing = AMAZING. I upgraded from a Jeep Commander. And yes, it is truly an upgrade.
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Angry.... - 2009 Kia Borrego
By luvpaj02 - April 5 - 11:13 pmI have owned my Borrego for two weeks exactly. Right off the bat, I had to have the radio replaced because the Sirius Satellite Radio portion of the radio did not work. Thats fine. Minor glitch. Unfortunately, when the dealership replaced it, they damaged the trim and interior of my vehicle. So now that has to be repaired. Very frustrating, but bearable. However, today, I got into my vehicle and my radio will not even turn on. I am so incredibly frustrated. It is an 80 mile round trip for me to go to the dealership and I resent that this is the FOURTH trip I will have had to make since purchasing the vehicle. I hope that I will have a more positive update in the future.
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best new car for size and fuel econmy - 2009 Kia Borrego
By Mike - March 29 - 1:26 pmWe drive 30,000 miles a year in our business. Traded Hyundai Santa Fe in for it, 2005 with 140,000. A pleasure plus much more room, great visibility. Even with the 6 cyl has more get and go than the 6cyl in the Santa Fe. Like the rear wheel drive. rides smooth and quiet, should have gotten the next upgrade. a great dealership made the process even better.
