Detroit 2008: Kia shows off new Borrego 7-Passenger SUV and Kee concept (video)

Kia's new upcoming SUV, the Borrego, was one of the most anticipated vehicles to come out of Korea at the NAIAS. The big 7-passenger ute was unveiled this afternoon, set to take a place above the Sorrento in the growing automakers lineup. Auto show buffs will recognize styling cues from the Mesa concept released at the same show back in 2005.

Borrego should go on sale in late spring or early summer as a 2009 model. The Sorrento derivative rides a larger platform than its smaller sibling, though both will continue to utilize a body-on-frame construction for toughness and strength. Kia officials stress that the platform has been subjected to rigorous noise and harshness testing to ensure a refined and quiet ride on the same level as it's uni-body constructed competition.


Borrego is powered by a V6 engine as standard equipment, and it will optionally house the first V8 to find its way behind the Kia badge. It's not certain whether it's the same 'Tau' V8 that Hyundai will offer in their Genesis sedan which goes on sale around the same time- but it probably is.

The new SUV will also be available with a V6 diesel engine.


Also on Kia's show floor was the Kee concept, making itsNorth-American debut. The Kee incorporates styling cues that will establish adesign identity for the Korean brand.

The 2+2 coupe gets a LED front lighting treatment and20-inch wheels, as well as a broad stance and a long, sloping hood. 

Inside, the car gets Kia's now standard red-orange dashillumination and aluminum trim is spread across the cockpit.

The Kee is powered by a 2.7-liter V6 that produces 197horsepower and is mated to a 6-speed sequential automatic gearbox.
photo:Alexandre Beaulne