Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC)
Power
Combined, EPA 2011
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Owner sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, characterized by strong affection and reports of exceptional long-term reliability and durability.
7 problems reported (1 very frequent, 3 recurrent, 1 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentExtremely poor fuel economy
15 MPG city, 18-20 MPG highway reported as typical.
- RecurrentV6 5-speed automatic transmission design flaw
Can cause failure to engage gear, "safe mode" activation, and getting stuck in a single gear (e.g., 4th). Corporate acknowledged flaw with no fix, only refurbished replacement units.
- RecurrentCam phaser/CVVT system failure
Causes rough idle, stalling when warm, and timing-related trouble codes (P0014, P0015, P0017, P0025). Often requires expensive repair involving phaser replacement and timing chain service, quoted around $3,200.
+ 4 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentRough idle and engine stalling
Related to cam phaser failure or oil control valve (OCV) contamination, typically occurs when warm and at a stop in drive.
- IsolatedAlternator reliability
Multiple reports of aftermarket alternator failures, prompting searches for OEM-quality replacements.
- Reported Issues (Isolated/Insufficient Data)
- Crankshaft position sensor codes
Knock sensor codes, and evaporative emission (P0456) codes have been noted but are typically linked to the primary timing/phaser issues. Overheating issues have been resolved with maintenance in one case.
The version owners recommend
V8 model with 4WD/AWD and the towing package. The V8 engine is specifically praised for its power and reliability, and the 6-speed automatic transmission paired with it is noted as not having the design flaw present in the V6's 5-speed transmission. The towing package unlocks its full 7,500 lb (3,402 kg) capacity, which is a defining capability for owners.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Toyota Land Cruiser, Lexus GX, Infiniti QX and Jeep Grand Cherokee. (Note: Comparisons are often made to established body-on-frame SUVs, not direct segment rivals).
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Overall sentiment
Owner sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, characterized by strong affection and reports of exceptional long-term reliability and durability. The vehicle is consistently praised as a robust, capable, and comfortable SUV that owners "loved" and kept for many years, often accumulating very high mileage (190,000 to over 240,000 miles/306,000-386,000 km) with minimal major issues. Its powerful V8 engine, body-on-frame construction, and high towing capacity are highlighted as key strengths. The primary and very frequent criticism is extremely poor fuel economy, described as a "guzzler" with real-world figures of 15 MPG (15.7 L/100km) in the city and 18-20 MPG (13-13.1 L/100km) on the highway. Its market timing is noted as terrible, launching during a recession with high gas prices, leading to low sales and quick discontinuation. The consensus is that it is a rare, underrated, and highly capable vehicle let down only by its thirst for fuel.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a value-oriented, full-size, body-on-frame SUV with V8 power. It is mentioned alongside but as a more affordable alternative to premium Japanese SUVs like the Land Cruiser and Lexus GX. One owner explicitly chose it over those models for "nationalistic reasons" as a Korean-made V8. It is noted as offering high towing capacity and many features for its time at a lower price point than established competitors. Its discontinuation is attributed to poor market timing rather than product quality.
Recommended configurations
4WD/AWD is recommended for improved traction and capability. The V8 engine is strongly preferred over the V6 due to its more robust transmission and greater power for towing. High-quality synthetic oil and premium filters are recommended by long-term owners to ensure longevity. Specific tire recommendations for all-weather performance include the Bridgestone Dueler Alenza H/L.
General recommendations
Highly recommended for buyers seeking a durable, high-mileage, capable used SUV for towing or rugged use, who prioritize mechanical robustness over fuel efficiency. Suitable for owners who plan to keep the vehicle long-term and perform diligent maintenance. NOT recommended for buyers sensitive to fuel costs or seeking a modern, feature-laden SUV. Essential to verify maintenance history, with a focus on oil quality and timing component health. A pre-purchase inspection should specifically check the cam phasers/CVVT system, timing chain, and transmission operation (for V6 models). Weigh any trailer carefully against its 7,500 lb (3,402 kg) max capacity, as owners report it can struggle with heavier loads at highway speeds.
Remarks
The Kia Borrego had an extremely short production run (2009-2010 model years, primarily for North America) due to catastrophic market timing, making it a rare vehicle. This rarity is reflected in the limited but highly consistent long-term owner data. The significant mechanical feedback centers on two distinct powertrains: the more problematic 5-speed automatic in V6 models and the robust but complex V8 with potential cam phaser issues. High-mileage longevity (regularly exceeding 200,000 miles/322,000 km) is a dominant theme among owners who used high-quality lubricants and performed regular maintenance. Analysis based on approximately 15 substantive owner discussions and long-term reports.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearSource: NHTSA (US)Show table
Recall notices5 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2010 · service brakes, hydraulic:antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip:control unit/modulecampaign 23V652000
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014 Sorento, and 2010-2011 Rondo vehicles. The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may experience an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
2010 · structure:body:roof and pillarscampaign 23V692000
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2009-2014 Borrego vehicles. The headliner plates may not be secured properly, which can result in the plates detaching in the event of a side curtain air bag deployment.
2009 · service brakes, hydraulic:pedals and linkagescampaign 12V245000
KIA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2009 BORREGO VEHICLES, MANUFACTURED FROM MAY 2, 2008, THROUGH JANUARY 20, 2009, EQUIPPED WITH NON-ADJUSTABLE BRAKE PEDALS. CERTAIN PEDAL MOUNTS MAY HAVE A FIBERGLASS COMPOSITION THAT ALLOWS THEM TO BREAK OFF IN A COLLISION WHERE THE IMPACT HAS NOT IMMOBILIZED THE VEHICLE, WHICH WOULD THEN ALLOW THE VEHICLE TO ROLL.
2009 · exterior lighting:brake lights:switchcampaign 13V114000
Kia Motors Corporation (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2007-2010 Rondo, model year 2007-2011 Sedona, Sorento and Sportage, model year 2010-2011 Soul, model year 2008-2011 Optima, model year 2010 Forte, model year 2007-2009 Amanti, and model year 2009 Borrego vehicles. Originally, in April 2013, Kia recalled 623,658 model year 2007-2010 Rondo and Sportage, model year 2007-2011 Sorento, model year 2007 Sedona, model year 2010-2011 Soul, and model year 2011 Optima vehicles. In September 2013, Kia informed the agency that it was adding an additional 356,719 vehicles to this campaign. The total number of vehicles being recalled is now 980,377. In the affected vehicles, the stop lamp switch may malfunction. A malfunctioning stop lamp switch may cause the brake lights to not illuminate when the brake pedal is depressed or may cause an inability to deactivate the cruise control by depressing the brake pedal. Additionally, a malfunctioning stop lamp switch may also result in intermittent operation of the push-button start feature, affect the operation of the brake-transmission shift interlock feature preventing the shifter from being moved out of the PARK position and cause the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) malfunction light to illuminate.
2009 · structure:body:roof and pillarscampaign 23V692000
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2009-2014 Borrego vehicles. The headliner plates may not be secured properly, which can result in the plates detaching in the event of a side curtain air bag deployment.
Specifications
4.6 i V8
4.6L 8-cylinder · 340 hp · AWD · automatic
Built 2008–2010