Positive Review
I bought my Borrego in May. It was the Luxury edition. I loved it! This past August 23, I was in a serious accident. I ended up totalling my Borrego. The good side to this is that I walked away from the accident! Not a scratch and absolutley no pain even after the accident. Th other driver left in an ambulance. I credit the great buid of my Borrego for my safety in the accident. That is why when I found out it was totaled, I called and got another Borrego.
Critical Review
The features of the vehicle are great, as was the price, which was the selling point. However, it has a terrible suspension, sways and bounces you all over the road, and rides like a 62 Chevy pickup I once had. Very disappointing, as I traded in a Highlander and wish I had it back.
Showing 8 of 93 reviews.
I bought my 09 6cyl Borrego new in 2010 and now it has 175,116 miles and has never failed me. Other then oil changes, batteries, air filters, brake pads, spark plugs and tires everything else is stock. It even sat for a year when I was deployed and when I came back it started right up. I have to admit the paint has faded and the clear coat is pealing from the Florida sun but mechanically it’s probably the most reliable vehicle I have ever owned.
Comfortable and reliable
Gas mileage per gallon
Single, now don't need a family vehicle. No kids to transport anymore. Need a smaller vehicle, something easier on gas, and maintenance.
The ones that haven't broken, will last forever.
You have to be an expert to keep them on the road.
Purchased about five years ago, I'm the second owner, and have put about 60k miles in mixed driving up and down the east coast. It's easily the best SUV I've ever owned, but wouldn't recommend based on parts availability, with a caveat. Full disclaimer: I'm an automotive enthusiast, so I don't mind getting parts imported from overseas, as is regularly the case with my other vehicles. These vehicles were designed and built for the global market, not just the US. They were imported to Canada from 2009-2011. They were also exported to South America, the Middle East, and Asia until around 2019, when there was a restyle/update. They're also known as the Mohave, sometimes going with the trim levels GV380, GV460, and JV300 (3.0L diesel option). Do the research, find a competent shop or DIY, and you won't be disappointed, ever. Knowing this, if you're still interested in ownership, these vehicles are the bee's knees as far as full size power in a mid-sized package. Styling is well under the radar (boring) for what it is, but it's screwed together VERY well. The construction of the vehicle allows it to handle rough roads, choppy terrain, cold climates (heated windshield in the Limited), and towing, all without breaking a sweat. Noise and vibration are low, though the ride is that of a ladder framed vehicle from the early-to mid 2000s. It's not offensive, once you get used to it, it just isn't cushy or coddling. Steering is on the heavier side, but it forces me to drive with two hands, so no demerits there. It's also fantastic for the family, as I had a baby seat and a full dog crate in the back for the first year and a half of ownership. Turning circle is really tight. Its safety profile is what sealed the purchase. Crash ratings are the only thing that matters at the end of the day, and the NHTSA YouTube videos speak for themselves. Swap down to the LX wheels and tires to soften the ride a smidge and get a little bit better fuel economy, though don't expect stellar numbers. I average about 22mpg on long trips, and about 18-19mpg around town if I don't have my foot in it. Mine is the under stressed Tau V8, so not a lot outside of routine maintenance. Enjoy these for what they are while you can.
super powerful
needs some work
powerfull and spaceciuos..needs some work like fuel pump and rear shocks. Has a few dents but the body is i great condition as well as the tires
Horsepower, comfortable, navigation,
Engines suck
Prior to the beginning of the year, I liked the 2009 Kia Borrego EX V8 for it's third row seating, navigation system, fuel efficiency for a V8 engine, premium sound, etc. I thought I'd keep the Borrego until the wheels fall off. However this year I have replaced the original engine with a used 81K miles then 35 days later a part that's discontinued is the cause of the second engine replacement. I only drove it two out of 7 months this year because of those engine issues. A V8 engine with only 146K miles shouldn't be having major issues near back-to-back. When I get it done, it's finito, kaput as I'm done with the Borrego & Kias altogether. Their engines are junk and now learning about them going to a lawsuit with certain vehicle model engines. I just got a loaded 2008 Infiniti QX56 with only 100K miles that should give me trouble free miles for a while.
Good people haulr, runs good, plenty of visibility
Not GREAT gas mileage. Whistling roof X-beams.
Sure, like any car, it has had a problem or two. But, none of the problems were beyond normal (IE: One Inside Door handle, One outside door handle, Ceiling vent opening controller, Fuel pump, batteries, tires, etc.) Strong pulling engine, excellent trans, etc.
I love my Borrego. My only complaint is the back door trims come off leaving dust to get in from gravel roads
Runs good until u need something
Can't get parts
The car is great. The problem we have is this is the only year this make any model was put out. Therefore obtaining parts are just not happening, even through the dealership. My husband is one of those guys who can find a needle in a hay stack. My car is down for the lack of parts. :( I wish ALL manufacturers would not do this for just one year, or have to make it known to the consumer Before they purchase. Giving the consumer the choice then if they want to buy it or not.