As the SUV market continues to move toward sleek, more carlike crossover designs, Kia rolled out what likely won't be found anywhere else at the show: a new-generation body-on-frame sport-utility vehicle.
The Borrego's styling builds on cues from the KCD-II Mesa concept shown at Detroit in 2005-especially the concept's eye-catching flared wheel wells, chromed slotted grille, and rakish, trapezoidal headlamps. Plentiful protective dark lower-body cladding delivers the message that the Borrego is up to off-road tasks.
With a wheelbase of 114 inches, an overall length of 192.1 inches, and an overall width of 75.4 inches, the Borrego sizes up almost identically to the likes of the Ford Explorer, Chevrolet TrailBlazer, Nissan Pathfinder, and Toyota 4Runner.
The Borrego's new platform rides on a four-wheel independent suspension, with coil-over springs front and back to provide good ride quality and ability for on- or off-road driving.
Inside, three rows of seating are standard for a capacity of seven passengers. The sliding second-row seat allows easier access to the third row, and both the second and third rows fold flat for optimized cargo space.
Full-length side curtain airbags cover all three rows. In addition, there's a long list of electronic safety aids, including the usual ABS and electronic stability control, plus downhill assist control (DAC) and hill assist control (HAC), which help maintain stability on steep slopes.
Two engines will be offered on the Borrego: a 3.8-liter V-6, or an all-new 4.6-liter DOHC V-8. The new V-8 makes "more than 300 horsepower" according to Kia, though power figures for the V-6 were not disclosed. Both models will be offered with either rear- or four-wheel drive. The V-8 will deliver its power through a six-speed automatic transmission - a first for Kia.
Towing capacity is a very competitive 7500 pounds with the V-8 engine and 5000 with the V-6.
Top options include a 600-watt Infinity audio system, power adjustable pedals, and a DVD-based navigation system - also a first for Kia - with back-up warning system and rear camera display. All Borregos will have USB and iPod capability and three months of Sirius Satellite Radio.
The Borrego will go on sale this summer as a 2009 model.
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