2009 Kia Borrego Review: Great Drive and Great Chance to Win One for Yourself

There's an old joke about how one gets to Carnegie Hall - practice. In a analogy spin on the joke, the only way you'll get to experience a really good midsize luxury car is to drive it. And not just because Kia is running a national sweepstakes, either.

This is an enjoyable drive. Period. I know, cause a few weeks ago I was able to test drive the Borrego through some of the most beautiful country in the U.S., the Eastern Cascade Mountains in the state of Washington.

From the flats of the lush valleys to the climb up some nifty, twisty roads to reach a beautiful lake for some fishing - this is a tough job - I was pleased and a little awed by the luxury Kia has been able to inject into this vehicle. Its impressive, damn impressive in and out. Which for some dumb reason, difficult for most manufacturers of SUVs to accomplish. Kia got it right.

Built on a platform with a wheelbase of 114.0 inches with an overall length of 192.3 inches and overall width of 75.4 inches, Borrego stands wider and longer than the Chevy Trailblazer, Jeep Grand Cherokee and Toyota 4Runner its competition in this class. Its wide stance allows for a roomy, comfortable interior with standard three rows of seating for up to seven adult passengers.

Two all-aluminum engines are offered - a 3.8-liter V6 and 4.6-liter V8 engine, the most powerful in Kia's line to date. While the horsepower on both is nice V6 at 276 and the V8 at 337 hp, it's the torque that's cool.

The smaller engine puts out 267 pound-feet of torque at 4,400 rpm, and the V8 generates a class-leading 323 pound-feet of torque at 3,500 rpm - more powerful than the previously named SUVs as well as the Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Trailblazer and GMC Acadia.

Given the price per gallon these days, the Borrego is not exceptional. It's okay when considering the impressive horsepower and torque with the unique-to-Borrego and new-to-Kia six-speed automatic transmission. The V8 engine has an EPA rating of 15/22 while the V6 is 17/21 city/highway. How 'bout adequate?

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.

Complementing the audio system, Borrego comes standard with USB and auxiliary input jack and is the first Kia vehicle to offer SIRIUS Satellite Radio with three months of complimentary service for hours of uninterrupted amusement.

Adding even more refinement and upgrades, the EX trim level includes an eight-way power adjustable driver's seat, four-way power adjustable front passenger's seat, floor mats, dual-zone automatic climate control, Homelink with compass, steering wheel audio controls, trip computer, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. The new midsize SUV also offers Kia's first voice-activated navigation system, with a Rear Seat Entertainment Package that includes an eight-inch widescreen television (EX models) for passenger entertainment during long car rides or around-town adventures.

Nice package, right? So head to the Kia dealers near you to enter the sweepstakes or go online at BorregoExperience.com/win. Good luck.

by Marty Bernstein
Detroit Bureau
The Auto Channel

Borrego Go: Kia's national "BorregoExperience" campaign tour

Kia's first midsize luxury SUV has been thrust onto the American market, and to assist marketing and promotion of the SUV, Kia has developed a national interactive promotional tour called the "BorregoExperience."

Starting September 16, 600 individuals and families became part of a product research study for the Borrego through extended Borrego VIP Test Drives based in Los Angeles, Dallas, and Phoenix. The individuals and families received brand-new SUVs to test drive, which also allows Kia to monitor and analyze consumer feedback. The feedback is important to ensure the vehicle will be well-tailored to the American masses, especially those unfamiliar with Kia vehicles.

Also part of the BorregoExperience is a nationwide sweepstakes and national exhibition with a paid test drive. The sweepstakes allows licensed drivers 18 years of age and older to enter for a chance to win one of five new Kia Borregos. The national exhibition has been touring great American cities since May 2008. Test drivers of the Borrego can receive a $20 gift card.

The next stops for the tour are in Cleveland, Phoenix, Indian Wells, and Tampa. The Cleveland, Ohio, stop will be from September 20 through 21, Phoenix, Arizona, stop from October 3 through 5, Indian Wells, California, stop from October 10 through 12, and Tampa, Florida, stop on October 25.

By Benson Kong
Source: Kia Motors Press Release

Test Drive: Borrego is a nifty SUV, but is its time past?

Kia's timing is off. It's hit the market with a traditional, truck-based SUV -- available with Kia's first V-8 engine -- just as Americans decided such fuel-thirsty SUVs are as appealing as poison ivy.

Its marketing pitch also might be off. Kia -- long the brand you bought for price -- is promoting the new Borrego SUV as a luxury model.

Of course, Kia might wind up with the midsize, truck-based market to itself as other makers flee to more popular, car-based crossover SUVs that are lighter, nimbler and potentially more fuel-efficient.

Kia is not dumb, just unlucky. Product plans are locked in several years before a vehicle hits showrooms. The automaker says that nobody could have forecast the sudden run-up in fuel prices and implosion of sales for this type of body-on-frame SUV.

In Borrego's favor is that it feels tauter and crisper than most truck products. Both the V-8 and V-6 early-production test trucks were sporty and satisfying to drive. Not as refined as a well-done crossover, but commendable nonetheless. Don't turn up your nose at Borrego based on its underpinnings.

Mileage wasn't great, but no worse than rivals, whether crossovers or truck-based SUVs. Expect 15 mpg, plus or minus, in the suburbs; better with a light foot. The V-6 was a little better than the V-8.

On paper, the optional V-8 powertrain is a hottie: 4.6-liter, 337 horsepower, 323 pounds-feet of torque, six-speed automatic. Behind the wheel, though, it had to be revved a bit to get that hoo-boy feeling you want.

The surprise was the base V-6, a 3.8-liter unit rated 276 hp and 267 lbs.-ft. of torque, mated to a five-speed auto. It was lively from the get-go through speeds that'll put you at odds with people in cars with flashing lights. Perhaps because of its be-happy persona, the V-6 drank fuel nearly as fast as the V-8. Conservative drivers would do better.

Both transmissions shifted up and down crisply -- not always true even in pure luxury vehicles. And both provided a manual-shift mode that was easy and inviting to use.

Despite some flaws, Borrego had a barbed appeal -- it got under your skin and was hard to get out. There was a bit of anticipation heading out each day to fire up the Borrego. Accounting for that:

-Sportiness. Agility made the Borregos seem less like clumsy trucks. Steering was especially nice, neither twitchy nor numb. The body didn't lean much in tight corners.

-Comfort. The leather bucket seats in the testers were a nice blend of cosseting and corseting. Second-row seats slid fore and aft and reclined.

-Ambience. Befitting a premium machine, controls felt good to operate, surfaces were appealing to eye and hand, and the design and layout inside were attractive.

-4x4. Borrego's the good kind. You can leave it in automatic four-wheel-drive mode or lock into 4x4 high for challenging roads or 4x4 low for true off-roading. Kia says the system sends up to 35% of power to the front wheels and anticipates the right power split based on acceleration and other factors.

It was flawless in heavy rain with barely a peep from the rears before the fronts clawed for grip.

-Features. Thoughtful touches include a little extra cargo space under the rear floor, standard skid plates underneath, a 115-volt power outlet on some models, easily deciphered three-zone climate control on deluxe versions and optional heated seats in the second row instead of only in front.

-Noise. Not much.

But, no, the Borrego's not a home run, because:

-Ride. Too much pitch and toss; too stiff even for truck-lovers, and jarring on sharp bumps.

-Price. The V-8 test truck was $39,295; the V-6, $36,295. Yet, both lacked rear-seat DVD, backup cameras, power tailgates and one-touch windows. Back-up camera and rear DVD are options. Kia expects to have one-touch up/down windows in the 2010, and plans a power gate in a few years.

A Limited model with most features standard is planned this fall. Kia has not set that price yet.

On the other end, Borrego starts at about $27,000, similar to the Ford Explorer, a truck-based SUV that is its closest rival. Compared with Explorer, Borrego has a stiffer ride, but a classier interior, better drivetrain and better mileage.

Borrego starts about $1,300 less than the new-design 2009 Honda Pilot midsize crossover SUV (Test Drive, May 8). Borrego rides and handles worse than the Honda and uses more fuel.

If you like truck-based, midsize SUVs, Borrego is a very good example of a vanishing breed.

2009 Kia Borrego What? Madness: A truck-based SUV at a time nobody's buying them. Midsize. Four doors. Three rows of seats. Choice of V-6 or Kia's first V-8 engine. Rear-wheel or four-wheel drive (4x4). When? On sale since mid-July.

Where? Made in South Korea.

Why? Kia didn't anticipate Americans fleeing truck-based SUVs for mpg's.

How much? Starts at $26,995 including shipping for rear-drive V-6. Top-of-the-line V-8 4x4 starts at $31,745.

How powerful? V-6 is 3.8-liter rated 276 horsepower at 6,000 rpm, 267 pounds-feet of torque at 4,400 rpm. Optional V-8 is 4.6-liter rated 337 hp at 6,000 rpm, 323 lbs.-ft. at 3,500 rpm.

V-6 with five-speed automatic, V-8 has six-speed. Both have manual mode.

How lavish? Standard features include stability control; side-impact and head-curtain air bags; anti-lock brakes with brake-force distribution and assist; back-up warning system; air conditioning; power steering, brakes, windows, locks, mirrors; AM/FM/CD/MP3/Sirius-ready audio; cruise control; slide/recline second-row seat; remote locks.

Four-wheel-drive option has full-time automatic setting, 4x4 high/low ranges.

How big? Near a Ford Explorer but about 200 pounds lighter: 192.1 inches long, 75.4 in. wide, 71.3 in. tall on a 114-in. wheelbase; 4,248 lbs. to 4,5621 lbs. Tows 5,000 lbs. (V-6) or 7,500 lbs. (V-8).

Cargo space in cubic feet listed as 12.4 behind third row, 43.1 with third row down, 97.6 with second, third down.

Turning circle is listed as 36.5 ft.

How thirsty? V-6 is rated 17 miles per gallon in town, 21 highway, 18 combined with rear-wheel drive; 16/21/18 with 4x4. V-8 is 15/22/18 with rear-wheel, 15/20/17 with 4x4.

In combined suburban, freeway driving, trip computer showed 15.3 mpg in V-6 4x4 test truck, 14.6 in V-8 4x4.

Regular (87-octane) gasoline is specified. Tank holds 20.6 gallons.

Overall: Stiff-riding and some versions pricey, but a generally nice truck.

Kia introduces Borrego SUV during difficult climate

As a noun, a desert refers to an arid, hostile environment. As a verb, it means to abandon or forsake someone or something.

Kia's all-new 2009 Borrego is named for a desert in Southern California. It arrives at a time when both meanings describe the climate that greets it.

The Borrego is a mid-size, body-on-frame, seven-passenger SUV with V6 or V8 power, a type of vehicle that only recently was wildly popular. But with gasoline prices seemingly stuck at more than $4 per gallon, it faces a forbidding environment, with buyers deserting these vehicles in droves.

It's unfortunate because the South Korean manufacturer has produced an exceptional first effort in a segment in which it has not competed. The company views that as a reason for optimism because each sale is a plus it would not have otherwise.

"Kia has never been in this segment before," said Tom Loveless, the marketing vice president. "We used to be always the second car in the driveway. This gives us a chance to be the first."

As a body-on-frame SUV, the Borrego competes with truck-based SUVs like the Ford Explorer, Nissan Pathfinder, Toyota 4Runner and Jeep Grand Cherokee. It also targets the Honda Pilot, which is a unit-body crossover utility vehicle.

Generally speaking, truck-based SUVs are more rugged, have more power, better towing capability and, with four-wheel drive, more suited to off-road adventures. Crossovers, on the other hand, usually deliver better handling and fuel economy, and have all-wheel drive mainly for adverse on-road conditions.

Despite its underpinnings, the Kia Borrego does not have a truck-like feel. The impression is more crossover than SUV, not unlike that of the Hyundai Veracruz or Toyota Highlander. It cruises serenely on the highway, with confident handling and little intrusion of wind, mechanical or road noise.

However, despite a good ride on smooth surfaces, the suspension system is harsh, transmitting road shocks to the passengers' behinds when the going gets choppy.

But the Borrego has all the attributes, including its available V8 engine, regarded as important by customers who tow boats and trailers, and take their vehicles off-road.

With the 337-horsepower V8, an all-new design that, with different tuning and transmission gearing also powers the new Hyundai Genesis, the Borrego can tow up to 7,200 pounds.

Moreover, with four-wheel drive (a $2,000 option), the Borrego can be shifted with a dash-mounted switch from on-road all-wheel drive to high- or low-range four-wheel drive for adventures into the wilderness.

The Borrego has three rows of seats with a surprising amount of flexibility for passengers and cargo. The third-row seat actually can accommodate two people up to six-feet tall in reasonable comfort, though it takes some agility to get back there.

The second row seats, divided two-thirds and one-third, can be adjusted fore and aft. There's about a foot of travel with four locked positions to divvy up the space among the three rows. The seatbacks also recline.

There's more than adequate room in the second row for three adults, with a nearly flat floor, although the center position is shortchanged on cushion comfort and the intrusion of the center console.

Kia touts the fuel economy as best in the class. On the V6 with rear drive, the city/highway EPA rating is 17/21 miles per gallon. The V8 model actually does slightly better on the highway side, at 15/22, owing to its newer design and the use of a six-speed automatic transmission instead of the five-speed automatic on the V6 model. With four-wheel drive, the V6 rating is 16/21 and the V8 gets a 15/20 rating.

Buyers have come to expect a lot of stuff for the bucks from South Korean manufacturers, and the Borrego is no exception. The base Borrego LX two-wheel drive model starts at $26,995, which is about what some compact two-row crossover SUVs cost.

Standard equipment includes a full complement of safety equipment: electronic stability control, antilock brakes, side airbags and side-curtain air bags, tire-pressure monitoring, backup warning system, and, for off-road duty, downhill brake control, hill start assist, tow hooks and underbody skid plates.

Also standard are air conditioning, an audio system with satellite radio, 17-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, remote locking, and power windows and mirrors. The upholstery is a comfortable, sturdy cloth and the supportive front seats are adjustable for height.

An unusual item of standard equipment is a power closing system for the tailgate, not unlike those featured on luxury cars that snub down the trunk lid. When the tailgate makes contact, the mechanism pulls it tightly closed.

The test Borrego was a V8 model with four-wheel drive. It had a base price of $33,745 and, with options, topped out at $39,295. That included leather upholstery on the first two rows of seats (the third row has a vinyl covering), a motorized sunroof, heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, rear air conditioning, running boards, power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, a memory system for the seats, mirrors and steering wheel, and an upgraded audio system.

By FRANK A. AUKOFER, Scripps Howard News Service
(Distributed by Scripps Howard News Service)

2009 Kia Optima: Larger proportions and a new skin keep Kia's family sedan up to date and on target

In the passenger-car business, the vast gap in the level of quality between the leaders and followers can now be measured in mere inches instead of miles. One of the four-doors that fits within that miniscule gap is Kia's redesigned Optima sedan that arrives this fall.

From humble beginnings back in 2001, the Optima represented an attempt by Hyundai's offshoot division to compete with more established sedan major-leaguers such as the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Chevrolet Malibu plus a sprinkling of other players. Less than a decade later, the Korean-built car runs neck and neck with the pack, especially since the Optima has been restyled and upgraded less than three years after launching its previous-generation model.

Although the previous Optima used the same basic platform as its Hyundai Sonata counterpart, overall length was shorter by about 2.5 inches. That minor shortfall has been addressed, with both models (the Sonata has also been updated for 2009) now virtually equal in size. Most of the Optima's gain is due to a complete redesign of the front end, now displaying a more prominent grille and logo. Also more substantial is a new front bumper and available fog lights, while, conversely, the headlamp pods have been downsized and now blend in with the new grillework. Other physical changes include revised side trim, rear deck lid and taillamps.

The Optima now displays more character, a vital ingredient in getting prospective buyers to connect with the Optima on an emotional level instead of simply relying on its practical nature to generate new or conquest sales from competing sedan brands.

Interior changes include a new dashboard and control panel layout for easier identification and intuitive function. As well, a spot has been created for the navigation system, a first-time offering on the Optima.

The base 2.4-liter four-cylinder now delivers 175 horsepower, a gain of 15 ponies, while the optional 2.7-liter V6 gains five horsepower for a total of 190. Kia claims both engines produce improved economy, although exact figures have not been released.

Interestingly, among the significant platform and component sharing that exists between the Optima and the Hyundai Sonata, the 2.7 motor remains exclusive to the Kia. Meanwhile, the Sonata's upgraded-for-'09 249-horsepower 3.3-liter V6 is not available in the Optima.

A five-speed manual transmission, or optional five-speed automatic is offered with the four-cylinder, while V6 models come with the automatic.

For 2009, the Optima lineup has been increased to three versions: LX; EX; and SX. Base cars include air conditioning, power windows and door locks, six-speaker audio system, multi-adjustable (non-power) driver's and front passenger's seat and a comprehensive rundown of airbags and other safety gear. The EX adds climate control, leather-covered seats, power adjustable driver's seat, tilt and telescopic steering wheel and auto-dimming rearview mirror.

The new-for-2009 SX's exclusive features include a sport-tuned suspension, unique grille and headlight trim, outside-mirror-mounted turn-signal lights, aluminum interior trim with metal accelerator and brake pedals and 17-inch wheels (both LX and EX run on 16-inch rims).

Along with a new navigation package, Optima buyers can add a power sunroof, premium sound system and a wealth of other goodies.

Enough can't be said about Kia's five-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain coverage, which has yet to be matched by any of its major competitors, save for Hyundai. That level of protection is yet another reason why the Optima's hair's-breath distance from other mainstream sedans deserves serious consideration by sedan shoppers.

What you should know: 2009 Kia Optima

Type: Four-door, front-wheel-drive mid-size sedan

Engines: 2.4-liter DOHC inline four-cylinder (175 hp); 2.7-liter DOHC V6 (190 hp)

Transmissions: Five-speed manual (I4 only); five-speed automatic (opt. on I4, standard on V6).

Market position: As with the similar Hyundai Sonata, the Optima offers plenty and style and content for the money and should continue to attract new customers.

Points: * Slightly larger and more distinctive-looking than outgoing version. * Restyled interior should add customer appeal. * Surprising that Sonata's larger 3.3-liter V6 option not offered in the Optima. * Long warranty inspires buying confidence. * A challenger to Accord, Camry and Malibu sedans, but likely won't beat them in sales. * Definitely worth a look-see for sedan shoppers.

Safety: Front airbags; side-impact airbags; side-curtain airbags; anti-lock brakes;traction control; stability control.

The numbers: MPG (city/hwy), 22/32 (2.4, MT); Base price, $19,000 (est., incl. destination)

By Malcolm Gunn | Wheelbase Communications

Borrego on in: Right SUV, wrong time; no problem, Kia says

You would think It would be hard to pick a time worse than now to launch another midsize SUV, but don't tell Kia.

"Four-dollar gas plus SUV is an equation that doesn't necessarily add up," said Kia's vice president of sales, Tom Loveless. "[But] we bring features and value, and all of that spells opportunity for Kia."

Besides, since Kia has never offered a midsize SUV, it's all profit for the giddily optimistic carmaker. This one comes with your choice of 3.8-liter, 276-hp V6 or 4.6-liter, 337-hp V8. Those are mated to five- and six-speed automatics, respectively. Both come in two- or four-wheel drive. Front suspension is double-wishbone, not usually seen in this class, while the rear is multilink.

The features list is as long as your arm--if you're of medium height, anyway. You can get a voice-controlled nav system and 10-speaker Infinity audio, Bluetooth, USB auxiliary jack, auto-locking tailgate and power-adjustable pedals. Six airbags standard, along with 10 cup-holders and 16 air vents (air vents are the new cupholders, Kia says). Prices range from $26,995 for an LX V6 4x2 to $33,745 for an EX V8 4x4.

"The focus groups were surprised that the Borrego had all the features they would expect in the class," said Tim Chaney, director of marketing.

The class includes Ford Explorer, Nissan Pathfinder, Toyota 4Runner, Honda Pilot and Jeep Grand Cherokee, according to Kia. The Borrego outpowers all of those in either engine configuration. It costs a bit less, but once you juggle the availability of one competitor's features versus another, all you get are angry letters from car-sales professionals who feel slighted. The Borrego has a good list of the things midsize-SUV buyers want at a good price, plus the ridiculously long warranty: 10-year, 100,000-mile powertrain plus other coverage standard on all Kias.
We drove it all day over somewhat twisty roads and even some dirt. The ride isolation is quite good; it's a quiet cruiser. On big bumps, we could feel a little more of the unsprung bits, as is the case with big SUVs, but nothing totally out of line. Curb weight ranges from 4,460 pounds to 4,909 pounds, about the middle of the pack. We did a nonscientific 0-to-60-mph run in a V8 4x4 with three people in it on what might have been a flat surface and got 10 seconds. Even though the V8 looks better on paper, you might not notice as big a difference between the V6 and the V8 from behind the wheel, unless you're towing something. That suggests you might want to save some money in the powertrain. Your gas savings would be a wash, since the V6 2WD gets 17/21 mpg, while the V8 2WD manages 15/22. Crazy, no?

With an all-new body-on-frame platform, wouldn't it have made sense to offer a few versions to amortize the cost of development? There were plans for Kia and Hyundai pickups based on this, but they were canceled because of the lousy business climate.

But wait, you say, then why launch this thing? Because Kia believes it can sell enough of them to make money.

By MARK VAUGHN
SPECS
ON SALE: Now
BASE PRICE: $26,995
DRIVETRAIN: 3.8-liter, 276-hp, 267-lb-ft V6; 4WD, five-speed automatic
CURB WEIGHT: 4,460 lb
0-60 MPH: 11 sec (est)
FUEL ECONOMY (EPA): 19 mpg

Kia does luxury, big-time

New Borrego comfy, classy competitor.

Anyone who pays attention to automotive advertising has noticed the Kia spots promoting the new Borrego sport-utility vehicle. The ads claim it's "a new kind of luxury SUV."

Your first question should be: Why would Kia introduce a new body-on-frame SUV when sales of that segment have taken a dive? And what could possibly be new about a luxury SUV when every luxury accessory and trapping imaginable has already been sold for years?

The Borrego was inspired and designed when sales of heavy SUVs were sizzling and no end was in sight. The introduction just came a year or two late. But now it's a buyer's market, and that's good for you.

What's new about this SUV? The Borrego is the first truck-framed, V-8 SUV to come from South Korea, a source of pride to Kia and a hint that the sky's the limit now that Kia, and its Korean sister company Hyundai, are building cars about as good as any. Luxury? Sure, but be prepared to spend. New luxury? Nah.

Kia had the advantage of analyzing established SUVs and was able to deliver a very appealing truck. It's not like anything else, although the Borrego's size and masculine styling suggest the Nissan Pathfinder, Dodge Durango or Jeep Grand Cherokee.

The Borrego's towing capacity of 7,500 pounds is competitive with other trucks, and a selectable "auto-high-low" four-wheel-drive system is available, though without a locking differential. I consider that an essential feature for anyone headed to the backcountry in wet weather.

My Borrego test unit, an EX trim showpiece with all luxury options and the 337-horsepower, 4.6-liter V-8, was stickered close to $39,295. About $2,000 of that was for the 4x4 system; $1,500 was for navigation.

A base Borrego with a 3.7-liter V-6, which I have not driven, starts at $27,000. Fuel mileage is just one mile per gallon better with the V-6, at least in Environmental Protection Agency estimates. I'd expect the V-8's combined city-highway mileage to be in the high teens.

The V-8 is $3,000 extra, and probably well worth it for the added capability, smoothness and its sweet six-speed automatic transmission. Compare Borrego prices with those of established SUVs and the new Kia looks even better, although discounts on all brands are juicy in this soft SUV market.

Unusual for a rugged, tow-capable SUV, an independent rear suspension smooths the Borrego's ride and aids in control during cornering.

Its handling competence and steering seem to approach or equal the Pathfinder's and Toyota 4Runner's, my top picks in this SUV class.

The Borrego's normally comfortable ride is jiggly and stiff over rough pavement, especially at freeway speeds. Noise isolation in the cabin is quite good.

My Borrego's cabin was posh indeed, as it should be for the price. Fit and finish, ergonomics, colors and textures, and build quality were excellent. I'd characterize the style as handsome functionality. The navigation system had sensible controls, but an electronic glitch had the little voice inside demanding repeatedly that I make a turn I'd already made a couple of miles back.

The third-row seat was larger than most in the class, though I found egress difficult. Third-graders will not have a problem.

The middle-row seats had adequate legroom and comfy cushions, and the front passengers had room to stretch out.

Altogether, it's a comfortable, competent vehicle and a worthy effort from Kia.

In his 27 years of writing a column for the Austin American-Statesman, Pete Szilagyi has driven more than 1,400 new cars and trucks. You may reach him at petesz@mac.com.

According to Pete ...

Target audience: Nissan Pathfinder and Toyota 4Runner shoppers spooked by sticker shock; happy owners of smaller Kias; drivers who need an SUV, regardless of the price of gas.

Highs: Butch styling, comfort, fit and finish, willing engine, six-speed transmission.

Lows: Sometimes choppy ride, no serious off-road package, fuel mileage.

Bottom line: The timing may be late, but the product is right on.

EPA rating for greenhouse gas emissions (10 is best): Not yet rated

By Pete Szilagyi
SPECIAL TO THE AMERICAN-STATESMAN