Kia Borrego enters full-size SUV arena

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By Dan Lyons MOTOR MATTERS

If you've ever tried to time the Stock Market, you know it's not easy. The challenge is much the same when it comes to developing a new vehicle.

I'm sure that when Kia started working on its new full-size SUV a few years ago, they didn't figure on $4.00/gallon gasoline and the ensuing migration of buyers into smaller vehicles. But that's the reality as the 2009 Borrego hits the streets.

Fortunately, the midsize and large sport utility segment, while smaller than it used to be, is still substantial. These days, the only people in that market are those who really need/want what only a big SUV can do -- haul and tow. And those people should like what they see from the newest Kia.

The 2009 Borrego is offered in LX, EX and Limited trims. Two- and four-wheel drive systems are available, and both can be had with either V-6 or V-8 power. Prices range from $26,995 for the LX V-6, 4x2, to $33,745, for the EX V-8 4x4.

Borrego has a function first, no-nonsense look about it, befitting a big SUV. The upright lines are beveled at the corners and capped with a wide, chrome grille. Size-wise, Borrego stretches 192.3 inches long. It is both longer and wider than class contemporaries like the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Chevy TrailBlazer or Toyota 4Runner.

One disadvantage that Kia faces in coming to market now is that they run into a different set of expectations. Years ago, SUVs were more truck-like on the inside. But, in the boom years for big SUVs, buyers became conditioned to expect more, and the interiors on some higher end SUVs started to rival luxury cars in terms of content and refinement.

The bar that Borrego has to vault has therefore been raised by the competition. Kia's response is a strong one. All trim levels have standard three-row seating. Up front, the driver takes in a clean, legible layout of gauges, framed by a meaty, four-spoke steering wheel. Controls in the main aren't hard to figure out or operate, although the location of the parking brake could use a re-think. Its current spot makes it easy to bruise a shin as you reach your left foot for the dead pedal.

Interiors are predominantly plastic, so the trick for the designer becomes breaking things up with different colors and textures. Borrego does pretty well with this, at least in the EX model I test-drove.

Visibility is generally good in all directions. Inboard storage includes molded door pockets; glove box; a main, covered, center console bin; small trays and cubbyholes. Big items go in the way-back, where Borrego offers an either/or choice for storage that's typical of three seat SUVs.

When all rows are full of passengers, there's not much room left over for gear (12.4 cubic feet). However, both the second and third row seats fold nearly flat forward when not required for passengers, and so stowed, they expand cargo capacity to as much as 97.6 cubic feet.

The back row is comfortable for kids and can even hold an adult or two for the short run. Row two is suitable for any size, and the available rear seat entertainment package ($1,500 on EX level) will keep the troops occupied on trips.

Both engine choices offer more power than any previous Kia product. The 3.8-liter V-6 produces a class-competitive 276 horsepower and 267 lb.-ft. of torque. The V-8 packs 337 hp and 323 lb.-ft. under hood. The V-6 is linked to a five-speed automatic transmission, while the V-8 gets a six-speed auto.

EPA rates the six at 17 miles per gallon city, 21 highway (4x2), 16/21 mpg (4x4). With the V-8, you can expect 15/22 mpg (4x2) and 15/20 mpg (4x4). Towing capability reaches 5,000 pounds with the V-6, while V-8 models are rated at 7,500 pounds. The available 4WD system is a full-time, on-demand setup.

Integrated onboard electronics (ABS, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control) work in concert to help the driver maintain control. While not aimed at rock climbers, Borrego is certainly capable of light off-roading. Undercarriage skid plates are standard equipment. So are Hill Start Assist Control and Downhill Brake Control.

The former prevents rollback when starting up a steep incline, while the latter helps maintain a controlled, steady pace on steep downhill grades.

Borrego is a solid SUV, worthy of careful consideration. Its biggest challenge isn't matching up with its competition as much as it is dealing with demands of selling in a rough, big truck market.