2009 Kia Borrego

TEST DRIVE—With two smaller SUVs already in its lineup, Kia has taken a traditional and expansive approach to its newest model. Named Borrego, the new midsize sport-utility vehicle is built like a truck, with a separate body and frame, and seats up to seven passengers. Both the compact Sportage and the smaller midsize Sorento hold five occupants.

Kia-First V-8 Power

Said to be inspired by Kia's "less is more" philosophy and meant to "convey a pure and functional look," the Borrego nevertheless pushes power. Kia's first-ever V-8 engine goes under the hood, making this the most potent Kia ever. Buyers who feel content with less than the 4.6-liter V-8's estimated 300-plus horsepower can opt instead for a milder 3.8-liter V-6 version. A new six-speed automatic transmission mates with the V-8. Kia claims class-leading towing capacity, of up to 7,500 pounds with V-8 power, or 5,000 with the V-6 engine.


Introduced at Detroit's North American International Auto Show in January 2008, the Borrego is based on styling cues from Kia's Mesa concept vehicle, which appeared at the same show three years earlier. Flared-back headlamps flank the Borrego's upright grille, sitting beneath a chiseled hood.


Built on a 114-inch wheelbase, the Borrego is 192.1 inches long overall and 75.4 inches wide. That compares to 171.3-inch overall length for Kia's Sportage and 180.7 inches for the Sorento.

7-Passenger Seating & Safety

Three rows of seats are standard, for up to seven-passenger capacity. Second- and third-row seats fold flat, and the sliding second-row seat eases access to the third row.