Thursday, March 12, 2009

Kia Borrego Brings Strength, Luxury and Sophistication

The new 2009 Kia Borrego is intended for those who enjoy an active yet uncomplicated lifestyle. This new midsize sports utility vehicle presents a bevy of features to the Kia line-up including an available V8 engine and six-speed automatic transmission. It reminded me of the Land Rover.

Borrego is offered with a DOHC, all-aluminum 3.8-liter V6 as well as Kia's first-ever DOHC 4.6-liter V8 engine. Both engines are more powerful than any in Kia's line to date.

While the V6 produces a competitive 276 horsepower at 6,000 rpm with 267 pound-feet of torque at 4,400 rpm, the all-new V8 generates a class-leading 337 horsepower at 6,000 rpm with 323 pound-feet of torque at 3,500 rpm -- more powerful than the Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Trailblazer, Jeep Grand Cherokee and GMC Acadia. Borrego runs on regular unleaded fuel compared to the Pathfinder, which requires premium unleaded.

Both engines also are available in either two-wheel drive (2WD) or four-wheel drive (4WD). With class-leading towing of 7,500 pounds when partnered to the V8, and 5,000 pounds with the V6, the new midsize SUV offers unmatched capabilities for a weekend of camping or outdoor lifestyle activities.

The exterior has flared back headlamps, an upright grille and chiseled hood project a strong presence. LED side view mirrors and chrome accents add to its polished look. Contemporary front and rear fascias suggest modern luxury while optional 18-inch alloy wheels offer increased off-road capabilities, allowing consumers to live an energetic life in style whether it's cruising around town or trekking through the mountains.

Available in LX and EX trims, Borrego's spacious cabin comes well equipped with a slew of standard convenience features, including: air conditioning; power door locks, windows and mirrors; keyless entry; cruise control and an AM/FM/CD/MP3 six-speaker audio system to keep its passengers entertained and comfortable. Complementing the audio system, Borrego comes standard with USB and auxiliary input jack and is the first Kia vehicle to offer SIRIUS Satellite Radio.

Borrego offers Kia's first voice-activated navigation system, with a rear eight-inch widescreen television (EX models) for passenger entertainment during long car rides or around-town adventures.

Borrego ups the ante in safety, offering the same high level of standard safety equipment as all Kia vehicles, including additional features exclusive to the midsize SUV. Standard equipment includes front advanced airbags, front seat mounted side airbags, full-length side-curtain airbags for all three rows, four-wheel disc brakes with an antilock brake system including Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and traction control system (TCS), electronic brake distribution, brake assist system and a tire pressure monitoring system.

A standard back-up warning system provides an audible warning using ultrasonic sensors to detect and help prevent hitting hard-to-see objects. Borrego also includes Hill Start Assist Control (HAC), which helps prevent the vehicle from rolling backward when trying to pull away from an uphill gradient, as well as Downhill Brake Control (DBC), which helps keep the vehicle moving straight and steady down steep grades. Both functions are new to Kia.

The manufacturer's suggested retail price is $26, 245. The 2009 Borrego offers 17 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 21 mpg on the highway. Kia continues to woo American buyers. Check one out.

By Valencia Mohammed
Washington Informer

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