Dependable powertrain
As a value-oriented alternative to the Ford Explorer, Nissan Pathfinder and the like, the Kia Borrego offers an interesting powertrain selection. While the company made headlines by introducing its first-ever V8 engine, my tester was motivated by the base 6-cylinder mill.
The latter is no workhorse but it still manages to develop 276 horsepower along with 267 pounds-feet of torque. Aiming for true SUV capability, the folks at Kia endowed the Borrego with a 5,000-pound towing capacity, which is appropriate for typical towing duties (boat, trailer, etc.). However, for heavier loads, you should know that the burly V8 can tow up to 7,500 pounds.
From a technical standpoint, the Borrego seems to suffer from a harsh suspension. In fact, even under light load, the ride feels stiff and uncomfortable. That's a major issue that negatively affects the driving experience. Said harshness will no doubt be accompanied over time by a series of unwanted vibrations and all sorts of noises (in addition to those coming from the cargo area, as mentioned earlier).
Competition
As it stands now, the Borrego finds itself in an odd position. Several manufacturers are fleeing the once-profitable traditional SUV segment, leaving only the great Mohicans to battle each other. The group includes the Ford Explorer XLT ($41,399), Chevrolet TrailBlazer 4x4 LT ($39,695), Nissan Pathfinder S V6 ($38,298), Toyota 4Runner SR5 V6 ($38,560) and Jeep Commander Sport ($42,295).
Wrap-up
It's a shame that a vehicle like the 2009 Kia Borrego hit the market at a time when the full-size SUV segment is imploding. As competent as it may be, the Borrego is doomed to fail. Sure, there are still people out there looking for a big 4x4 to carry their family, and I guess you could say it's better late than never, but I doubt the strategy is the right one.
photo:Philippe Champoux
As a value-oriented alternative to the Ford Explorer, Nissan Pathfinder and the like, the Kia Borrego offers an interesting powertrain selection. While the company made headlines by introducing its first-ever V8 engine, my tester was motivated by the base 6-cylinder mill.
The latter is no workhorse but it still manages to develop 276 horsepower along with 267 pounds-feet of torque. Aiming for true SUV capability, the folks at Kia endowed the Borrego with a 5,000-pound towing capacity, which is appropriate for typical towing duties (boat, trailer, etc.). However, for heavier loads, you should know that the burly V8 can tow up to 7,500 pounds.
From a technical standpoint, the Borrego seems to suffer from a harsh suspension. In fact, even under light load, the ride feels stiff and uncomfortable. That's a major issue that negatively affects the driving experience. Said harshness will no doubt be accompanied over time by a series of unwanted vibrations and all sorts of noises (in addition to those coming from the cargo area, as mentioned earlier).
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| The Borrego seems to suffer from a harsh suspension. |
Competition
As it stands now, the Borrego finds itself in an odd position. Several manufacturers are fleeing the once-profitable traditional SUV segment, leaving only the great Mohicans to battle each other. The group includes the Ford Explorer XLT ($41,399), Chevrolet TrailBlazer 4x4 LT ($39,695), Nissan Pathfinder S V6 ($38,298), Toyota 4Runner SR5 V6 ($38,560) and Jeep Commander Sport ($42,295).
Wrap-up
It's a shame that a vehicle like the 2009 Kia Borrego hit the market at a time when the full-size SUV segment is imploding. As competent as it may be, the Borrego is doomed to fail. Sure, there are still people out there looking for a big 4x4 to carry their family, and I guess you could say it's better late than never, but I doubt the strategy is the right one.
photo:Philippe Champoux
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