2009 Kia Borrego: Road Test
2009 Kia Borrego ▼
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- MSRP: $26,245 - $39,995
- Invoice: $24,640 - $36,860
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Our road test for the 2009 Kia Borrego includes a full evaluation of the 2009 Kia Borrego from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2009 Kia Borrego, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2009 Kia Borrego help you decide if a 2009 Kia Borrego is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 4WD EX V6 | 4WD EX V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 5.4 |
Equipped with the V6, Borrego has adequate power in most situations, but the transmission needs a deep stab of the throttle to downshift when going uphill. The V8 is usefully more powerful overall. It too, however suffers from delayed downshifts and occasionally clunky upshifts.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 4WD EX V6 | 4WD EX V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 |
In Consumer Guide testing, 4WD V8 Borrego models averaged 16.6-17.1 mpg with slightly more highway driving than city use. With either engine, Borrego uses regular-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| 4WD EX V6 | 4WD EX V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 4 | 5.4 |
The ride is generally comfortable and composed for a midsize SUV, but large bumps can register with startling severity. Ride can become especially choppy in V8 models over broken surfaces.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 4WD EX V6 | 4WD EX V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4.5 |
Handling is typical for a truck-type midsize SUV with some body lean in turns and a general feeling of heft. The steering feels accurate with little need for correction at highway speeds. Especially tight turning radius aids parking lot maneuvers. The brakes offer good stopping control.
QUIETNESS
| 4WD EX V6 | 4WD EX V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.6 |
Tire noise is almost always audible but not annoying. Wind noise rises appreciably at highway speed. Large bumps generate a surprising amount of noise, especially since Borrego is usually quite serene for a truck-type SUV.
CONTROLS
| 4WD EX V6 | 4WD EX V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.3 |
Borrego has mostly user-friendly controls and well marked, easy to operate switch gear. The automatic climate control system uses horizontal toggle switches that move up and down to control temperature and fan speed; this unusual layout may require some study to master. The climate control system's readout occasionally becomes unreadable due to glare. The optional navigation system has touch screen controls with clear graphics and absorbs most audio functions. Many audio functions can also be controlled though redundant buttons on the steering wheel.
DETAILS
| 4WD EX V6 | 4WD EX V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.5 |
Borrego's interior features attractive materials and solid assembly. No opportunity to test with the standard cloth interior.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 4WD EX V6 | 4WD EX V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 7.2 |
Quite comfortable, even for large adults. Six-footers have adequate headroom under the sunroof. EX models have an 8-way power adjustable driver's seat with manual lumbar adjustment, and 4-way power adjustment for the passenger's seat. The available power tilt and telescopic steering wheel aids finding optimal adjustment.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 4WD EX V6 | 4WD EX V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 6.3 |
Very roomy 2nd-row seat with plenty of space for two six-footers and good headroom even with the sunroof. The bench seat is generally comfortable, but could use additional lumbar support. Second-row seat tilts/slides forward for entry to the 3rd-row seat.
CARGO ROOM
| 4WD EX V6 | 4WD EX V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 8.6 |
Second- and 3rd-row seats are split to favor passengers or cargo as the situation warrants. While the 3rd row folds flat, the 2nd-row backrests do not. In-cabin storage includes door pockets front and rear, and covered space in the console.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 4WD EX V6 | 4WD EX V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.8 |
Borrego compares favorably to established truck-type SUV competitors such as Ford Explorer and Dodge Durango. That said, in an age of higher fuel prices, vehicles of this type are an anachronism. If you need what a truck-type SUV offers, Borrego is worth a look. But keep in mind, this Kia is entering a challenging market environment that could reward available incentives more than the goodness of the product.
Total Score
| 4WD EX V6 | 4WD EX V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 67 | 67 | 64.6 |
Total Score: 67
Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
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