Paul Batista

Instant Wheels Editor, InstantPride.com

The Kia Borrego is an all-new SUV for Kia for 2009. It’s also the automakers largest vehicle in the product line. It enters a highly-competitive segment of vehicles referred to as mid-sized SUV’s.

The 2009 Borrego is offered with a V-6 or a V-8 engine. The V-8 is a 4.6 liter 337 horsepower motor, the largest power plant Kia offers in any of its vehicles. As an option, consumers can opt for a 6-speed automatic transmission.

I found the Borrego to be comfortable, and the electronics panel on the dash is logical and easy to use. As for the ride, I did find it to be a bit unsettling. Despite the fact it has independent front and rear suspension, it doesn’t glide over bumps as easily as I had hoped.

Like nearly every new car today, it comes with satellite radio, and navigation is an option. My test model of the 2009 Borrego didn’t come with bluetooth capability, which wirelessly connects your phone for hands-free conversations. After some research it didn’t appear that this was even an option. Here in California, where handsfree is the law, this is a big drawback.

The vehicle offers comfortable seating for 7 passengers– a clear sign that this is a vehicle made for families. You see in my video report that the seating is generally easy to manipulate. Climbing back into the third row wasn’t too much of a challenge. And if you need room to haul non-human cargo, the seats configure to a large flat surface. Again, you can see for yourself that this didn’t take much effort.

The design elements on the 2009 Kia Borrego are nice. The vehicle is easy on the eyes and has sharp chrome accents.

The EPA fuel estimate is 15 mpg city and 22 mpg highway. It comes with a 10 year/ 100-thousand mile warranty.

My test vehicle was a V-8 EX with a price of $36,545.

If you’re in the market for an SUV this is worth your consideration, but remember this auto segment has many competitors. The bottom line– nearly every automaker currently offers a comparable vehicle in a similar price range.

When it comes to buying an SUV consumers are enjoying a wealth of choices at the Riverside Auto Center.

Filed under Video Library, Wheels

Tuesday, October 6, 2009

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