Positioning:
The Kia Borrego was positioned as Kia's entry into the mid-size SUV segment, offering robust body-on-frame construction and available V6 and V8 engines, appealing to buyers seeking towing capability and traditional SUV ruggedness.
Competitors:
Competed with vehicles such as the Toyota 4Runner, Ford Explorer, Nissan Pathfinder, Chevrolet Trailblazer, and Jeep Grand Cherokee.
Features:
Body-on-frame construction, rear-wheel drive or available full-time 4WD, potent V6 and V8 engine options, spacious interior, significant towing capacity.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel delivery, ignition, emission control, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system.
Drivetrain:
Transmission (automatic), transfer case (if applicable), differentials, drive shafts, CV joints, axles.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS, EBD), wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Starting and charging system, lighting system, instrument cluster, power accessories, body control modules, gateway module, infotainment system, driver assistance systems wiring.
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, mirrors, interior trim, bumpers, underbody protection.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, differential fluid), filter replacements, lubrication points.
Repair:
Component removal and installation, disassembly and reassembly of major systems (engine, transmission, suspension components, brake assemblies), body panel repair.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for engine performance issues, electrical faults, transmission problems, braking system malfunctions, using scan tools and interpreting diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Electrical Service:
Detailed wiring diagrams, component testing, circuit diagnosis, repair of electrical faults, power distribution, grounding procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics.
Transmission Type:
5-speed Automatic (for V6)
Transmission Type:
6-speed Automatic (for V8)
Drive Modes:
Rear-wheel drive (RWD) or Full-time 4WD
Transmission Fluid Spec V6:
SPII / Dexron III H (Consult manual for specific VIN)
Transmission Fluid Spec V8:
SPII / Dexron III H (Consult manual for specific VIN)
Length:
189.9 inches (4826 mm)
Width:
75.4 inches (1915 mm)
Height:
69.1 inches (1755 mm)
Wheelbase:
114.0 inches (2896 mm)
Curb Weight V6:
4,455 - 4,630 lbs (2021 - 2100 kg)
Curb Weight V8:
4,665 - 4,900 lbs (2116 - 2223 kg)
Towing Capacity:
Up to 5,000 lbs (2268 kg) with V6, up to 7,390 lbs (3352 kg) with V8 (properly equipped)
NHTSA Front Driver Crash Rating:
5-Star (2009 Model Year)
NHTSA Front Passenger Crash Rating:
5-Star (2009 Model Year)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
No (Borrego did not receive Top Safety Pick designation)
Traction Control:
Standard
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard
Airbags Front:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Airbags Side Curtain:
Standard
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters
Infotainment System:
Available AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with SiriusXM Satellite Radio capability, optional navigation system, and Bluetooth connectivity.
Driver Assistance Features:
Rear parking sensors (optional), rearview camera (optional with navigation).
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth hands-free calling.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Coolant Change Interval:
Initial change at 105,000 miles (168,000 km), then every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) under normal driving conditions. Check manual for severe conditions.
Engine Oil Type V6:
SAE 0W-20 (Synthetic Recommended)
Engine Oil Capacity V6:
6.0 Quarts (5.7 Liters) with filter change
Engine Oil Type V8:
SAE 5W-20 (Synthetic Recommended)
Engine Oil Capacity V8:
6.9 Quarts (6.5 Liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant
Common Issues:
Some owners have reported issues with catalytic converter failure, fuel pump problems, and occasional transmission shudder. Electrical gremlins, particularly related to infotainment or accessory modules, can also arise.
Kia History:
Kia Motors Corporation, founded in 1944, is South Korea's oldest manufacturer of motor vehicles. It has grown significantly to become a major global automotive brand known for its value and diverse product lineup.
Borrego Introduction:
The Kia Borrego was introduced for the 2009 model year as a body-on-frame SUV, replacing the Kia Sorento's traditional unibody construction and catering to a more traditional SUV buyer. It was based on the Kia KM4 platform.
Production Years:
2009-2010
Manufacturing Location:
Hwaseong, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea