That's right. I did say V-8. Borrego can be had with either a 276-horsepower V-6 (5,000-lb. towing capacity) or 337-horsepower V-8 engine. The V-6 is mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission while the V-8 is teamed to a new 6-speed automatic.
Kia's full-time, Torque-On-Demand four-wheel-drive system is available with either engine. Both engines are responsive and run on regular unleaded fuel. Fuel economy is 15/22 for a 2WD V-8 and 15/20 for a 4WD V-8. Fuel economy for the V-6 is 17/21 (RWD) and 16/21 (4WD).
My Borrego tester was equipped with the V-8. The engine felt exceptionally refined and it delivered plenty of power for take-offs and passing. The six-speed automatic transmission provided smooth shifts and nicely held onto the gear longer when the throttle was pushed hard.
During my weeklong test, I put a significant amount of miles on my Borrego tester. The only complaint I have is something all SUVs suffer from, fuel economy. Other than that, my Borrego was extremely enjoyable around town and on the highway.
All Borregos include standard anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, electronic brake distribution, and traction control. Pricing starts at just $26,245.
A fully loaded model with all the bells and whistles is in the high $30s. Once again, with Borrego, Kia has proven to me that they have "The Power to Surprise."
2009 Kia Borrego EX V8 4WD
Engine: 4.6-liter (337 hp) V-8
Transmission: 6-speed automatic
Drive type: 4WD
Fuel economy: 15 city/20 highway
Base price: $32,995
As tested: Not available
Web site: www.kia.com