What Edmunds.com says...
For those who need the utility and towing capacity of a body-on-frame SUV, the 2009 Kia Borrego offers solid performance, respectable fuel economy and more luxurious appointments than many of its competitors.
Pros
Powerful engine choices, high towing capacity, decent fuel economy from V8, quiet ride.
Cons
Handling can feel sloppy and disconnected, acceleration lags from slow upshifts and hesitant throttle, no power liftgate option.
What's new
A new model for 2009, the Kia Borrego is a traditional midsize SUV that seats seven passengers. It's available with either a V6 or V8 engine as well as a choice of rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive.
Editor's Rating Score
Overall
7.5/10
For a first entry into the midsize SUV market, the Kia Boreggo is surprisingly good. It has power, it can tow and it has a well-trimmed cabin with a thoughtful layout. Right out of the box, it deserves a place on the shopping list of anyone considering a traditional framed midsize SUV.
Detailed Editor's Rating
7.5
out of 10
Dynamics
Both engines develop good power and torque, especially the V8. The feeling of power is dampened somewhat by an economy-oriented throttle calibration -- you have to stroke the pedal a bit farther than expected to get it to respond. This fuel-saving strategy works, however, as fuel economy is quite good if you drive it normally--especially considering the Boreggo's status as a framed mid-size SUV.7
out of 10
Comfort
The Boreggo provides good space in the front row, and adequate space in the middle. The ride is reasonably quiet and isn't overly hard. But certain road imputs invoke a shudder.8
out of 10
Function
Functionally, the Boreggo scores well. The controls are attractive and easy to use, even if you order the navigation system. A fully integrated iPod connection, with provisions for a simple auxiliarry jack or a USB memory stick, is standard. The dual-zone automatic climate control system works quite well, and a similarly well-executed third zone for the rear seat can be added.7.5
out of 10
Design/Build Quality
The Borrego looks like and SUV, but it doesn't cut quite as "trucky" a profile as some others. Its interior is functional and attractive, and the level of finish is quite good -- one of Kia's best efforts to date.Detailed Profile
- Family Friendly Three rows of seating are standard, and the third row has enough room for average-size adults.
- Cargo Hauler The second and third rows fold flat into the floor, creating a good amount of space.
- Towing Capable The V6 models tow 5,000 pounds, but the V8s comes with a standard 7,500-pound tow rating, with the hitch and wiring already there.
- Off-Road Ready The Kia Boreggo can be bought with true four-wheel drive with a low-range transfer case. The included electronic hill descent control (HDC) is very effective. Its approach and departure angles, however, are unremarkable