2009 Kia Borego EX 4-WD (745)

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2009 Kia Borego that is brand new right off the boat. Made in South Korea and 86% of the parts from there and 4% from US/Canada.

You can’t help but be impressed with such a new company in such a relatively new free economic society. I wonder what they are making in NORTH Korea beside poverty. Chop sticks perhaps because they have all those trees. Have you ever seen pictures of the stark difference of the country from Google Earth? North is all trees and south is a bustling mass of development. Ok, so I must admit the quality of life may be better north of the border, but it’s not “south of the border down Mexico way” kind of development.

Observation:

Remember not so long ago anything made in Japan was Junk? Then China and then Korea and India. Well, the globe is shrinking and Nationalism is giving way to Global-ism. Soon Asian companies will be “Outsourcing” to Africa and other cheaper labor markets if that is possible. Eventually we’ll see a truly Global Economy.
Handling & Performance:

Good power and the ride is consistent with most of the competition in price range.

Styling:
Common place styling for the class. The Koreans have learned well from the west on how to appeal to the automotive senses. If you don’t look at the badge you could be driving a Ford, Mercury, Chevy or you name it.

Fit and Finish:
Average.

Cost:

If you can’t tell the difference in appearance and the price is the same I’m wondering why folks will risk the unknown. This will be a tough sell for that reason. All things being equal I believe the consumer in the US will lean to those more Tried and True for the money. I’d say it would ordinarily take a 20-25% saving to make most take that leap of faith in a new product. However the list of standard equipment is impressive and all good stuff. That means to me a 10-15% discount would be in order. They’re the new kid on the block and will have to earn the price point they are suggesting.

Conveniences and comfort:

The conveniences are there – competitive with the best listed.

Consumer Recommendation:

No question I would have to tell you to drive it and compare. Outwardly you will be impressed. If you can strike a great deal in price reductions and have long extended warranties thrown in I suspect it would be worth the gamble. Time will tell if the Korean products hold up. I’d be interested in your experience over time if you have one or know someone who does. The US auto industry is over 100 years old and you know what you’re getting. The Korean auto industry is a baby by comparison so I suggest erring on the side of caution.

But if Kia is dealing it could be worth a try. Keep in mind the soft market for autos at this time and don’t be shy about asking for a deep discount.

Recognized Competition:

Kia Borego $26-33,000, Buick Enclave $35-39,000, GMC Acadia $32-40,000, Cadillac SRX $40-47,000, Subaru Tribeca $30-34,000, Saturn Outlook $30-36,000, Mercury Mountaineer $29-35,000, Toyota Highlander $26-35,000, Hyundai Vericruz $ n/a, Chevrolet TrailBlazer $29-39,000, Chevrolet Traverse $28-41,000, Mazda CX-9 $30-35,000, Toyota 4Runner $29-39,000, Suzuki XL7 $26-30,000, Toyota Venza $26-29,000, Honda Pilot $28-40,000, Ford Taurus X $28-34,000, Lincoln MKX $38-40,000, Dodge Durango $28-40,000, Chrysler Aspen $35-37,000, Jeep Grand Cherokee $30-45,000, Ford Explorer $28-39,000.

Good News:

Overall it is similar to all SUVs on the market and I suspect they will be dealing.

Bad News:

Pricey for a little known product, up against tough competition, not different enough in performance & fuel economy to take a leap of faith.

Standard Equipment:

3.8 liter 276 hp V6 engine, 5-speed auto trans, 4-wheel drive, 4-wheel ABS power disc brakes, front and side and side curtain airbags with rollover sensor, electronic stability control, traction control, tire pressure monitoring system, hill assist and downhill brake control, back up warning system, LATCH child system, dual zone climate control, power windows locks and mirrors, audio with CD, MP3 and 6 speakers, SIRIUS satellite radio with 3 mos incl., 8-way power driver seat, 4-way power passenger seat, 60/40 split folding 2nd row seats, 50/50 split folding 3rd row seats, remote keyless entry with alarm, leather steering with w/ audio and cruise controls, 3 12 volt outlets, trip computer, auto light control, under floor storage, privacy glass, roof rails, fog lights and windshield de-icer.

Gas Stats:

$1.99/ Gal avg. Jan 15, ‘09
www.fueleconomy.gov
for more information.

16 City and 21 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $29,995