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 51 through 60 of 61.00

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  Stuck key in ignition - 2009 Kia Borrego
  By Phillip - February 24 - 1:25 am

  Key got stuck in ignition and I called a lock smith, lock smith looked at it and referred me to dealership. I called dealership and was informed that a recall specialist would call me back( almost a month later I get a call back and was informed that my 2009 Kia borreggo doesnt have a stuck key recall("up the road without a key")My kia has 106,000 miles. When car is working, its great, but comes to service, Im not very pleased with the SERVICE!!!

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  My first SUV....not too shabby.... - 2009 Kia Borrego
  By pappy - January 23 - 12:06 pm

  The bottom line is I really, really like this car. Used all the reviews here on Edmunds(which were pretty spot on) and the USAA car buying help to get a good price in my mind before we headed out to the dealership. All said and done, paid $27,772(initial offer form the dealer was $28,900+). That includes: Leather throughout(Luxury package), crossbars, bluetooth, and 17 chrome wheels. Could have cared less about the wheels/bluetooth, but they were already on/installed and new laws in OR make already having the bluetooth great! 2,400 miles in and overall satisfied with the car. Oh, and the dealer used it as his personal car so it had 570 miles on it when we got it. Wife was pissed....

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  highly satisfied - 2009 Kia Borrego
  By beendone - December 4 - 2:23 pm

  I was looking at suv type vehicles. Also Honda Ridgeline. I had not seen the Borrego advertised. Saw it on the lot. Went back, checked it out. I bought it and it did have a good discount. I am happier so far with this vehicle then any of my past vehicles. 3.8 plenty of power. Does downshifts abruptly when giving it gas. I am getting used to that. Ride good. You know it is a truck type frame over large bumps. This also means it will carry a load with no problem. Dash layout and control are the the best I have seen. Everything is easy to find and use including the radio. I am very satisfied and think they should keep selling it in the USA. When the word get out they will sell.

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  Loyal Friend - 2009 Kia Borrego
  By Ron - September 23 - 1:55 am

  We have owned our KIA Borrego since 2010 (8 years). Currently has 208k miles and still running strong. It has been a reliable, low maintenance vehicle through years of Boy Scout camping trips, family vacations, cross country road trips, and long distance and local work commutes. If Borrego were still being made in US I would buy another one.

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  Poorly built AC compressor and interior - 2009 Kia Borrego
  By Boo Borrego - June 2 - 4:56 pm

  Interior has a cheap feel, scratches or scuffs easy. AC compressor makes a knocking noise and I only have 3400 miles on the vehicle. I have taken it in for repair twice and of course the noise isnt as loud while its at KIA so they say it is normal. $27,000 luxury vehicle that makes a knocking noise while going down the road! I was a repeat buyer, but will no longer buy from KIA.

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  A great vehicle - 2009 Kia Borrego
  By Andy - December 15 - 1:16 pm

  This is a great vehicle, really fun to drive on road or off. We upgraded from a RAV4 (too small) and werent disappointed. Fuel economy improved greatly after a few long highway rides, and the rear fold down seats give lots of storage space for skis, dogs, groceries etc. It handles well in all road conditions, has a really comfortable ride for all passengers, and there is lots of room in the 3rd row seats for adults. Weve had a few minor problems - door open sensor, a NOC sensor, programmable seat button doesnt work for position 2 but thats it. My only concern is that I have yet to see any other Borregos on the road - I know they are out there somewhere, ill just keep looking....

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  Do yourself a favor - 2009 Kia Borrego
  By Franman - December 3 - 1:13 am

  Wife wanted a comfortable and safe suv she could see out of. The Borrego passed with flying colors! This car is a pleasure to drive both in town and on a trip. We put over 1500 miles on it the second week a am totally pleased with this vehicle. Get the EX package, its a great value. All seams all correctly aligned, outstanding workmanship.

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  Great SUV - 2009 Kia Borrego
  By SC Dan - October 21 - 6:43 pm

  A great SUV with bad timing. Compare this with Honda pilot, Ford explorer, or the pathfinder and you will find that the borrego is inside and out. A better buy. Add to that the warranty and you cant go wrong. I hope Kia brings it back in 2011.

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  Great vehicle at a reasonable price - 2009 Kia Borrego
  By drallen - March 28 - 6:50 am

  This is a really great vehicle at a great price. Bought the V8 engine and love it..read some complaints on the 6 cylinder and since I tow a boat I wanted the V8 with the 6 speed transmission...works great and almost the same mileage as the 6 cylinder engine...Its a real joy to drive and love the 100,000 mile 10 year power train warranty!! Just got it a week ago so cant speak for reliability so far, but fun to drive...great quality vehicle at a low price..(KIA is giving $3,000.00 off right now) its really a no brainer...almost bought a Honda Pilot but this is a much better vehicle at a much lower price.

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  Auto 10, KIA Number 10 - 2009 Kia Borrego
  By Towny - March 4 - 2:46 pm

  Love the Borrego. Everything is perfect except KIA. They did not and refuse to honor their web site presentation. (Dealer was excellent, headquarters not). There logic was some small print that I, to this day have not seen; they have the ability to change or delete features advertised on their website without notice to purchaser. The backup camera, previously included in the package I purchased was, at their discretion, deleted, but the package price was not adjusted. KIA said the package price did not include the camera, but it was listed in the package. I was told the camera was not available until 2010, but now it is in a new model, "limited" that was not even offered.