2009 Kia Borrego: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2009 Kia Borrego was an all-new model for the U.S. market, launching as a three-row SUV with truck-style construction. Its headline hardware was Kia's first U.S.-market V8 and six-speed automatic.
About the 2009 Kia Borrego
1st generation (US-market Borrego), first and final US model year.
Kia pitched the Borrego as a roomy family SUV for shoppers who still wanted real towing strength and four-wheel-drive capability, not just crossover styling. The brand leaned on its mix of seven-passenger space, strong V6 or V8 power, a quieter and more upscale cabin than many expected from Kia at the time, and a long feature list for the money. In plain terms, the Borrego was Kia’s answer for buyers who needed family seating plus genuine work-and-weekend capability.
The LX is the straightforward family version, with seating for seven, fold-flat rear rows, rear parking sensors, and USB audio. The EX brings everyday comfort upgrades such as power front seats and dual-zone automatic climate control, while the Limited is the upscale model with a 4.6-liter V8, leather seating, push-button start, a moonroof, and an upgraded Infinity audio system.
What changed, by category
2009 Kia Borrego specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, 3.8 Liter / V8, 4.6 Liter | V6, 3.8 Liter / V8, 4.6 Liter | V8, 4.6 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive / Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive / Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | 2WD | 2WD | 4WD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 15–17 mpg | 15–17 mpg | 15 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 21–22 mpg | 21–22 mpg | 22 mpg |
| Horsepower | 276–337 hp | 276–337 hp | 337 hp |
| Torque | 267–323 lb-ft | 267–323 lb-ft | 323 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 5000 lb | 5000 lb | 7500 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 12.4 cu-ft | 12.4 cu-ft | 12.4 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 32.9 in | 32.9 in | 32.9 in |
| Seats | 7 | 7 | 7 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Automatic Headlights | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| Heated Mirrors | |||
| Heated Windshield | |||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Roof Rails | |||
| Side Steps | |||
| Bluetooth | |||
| Front DVD Entertainment System | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| Satellite Radio | |||
| Video Input | |||
| 115V Power Outlet | |||
| Dual Power Front Seats | |||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||
| Memory Driver's Seat | |||
| Memory Steering Wheel | |||
| Power Adjustable Pedals | |||
| Power Driver Seat | |||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |||
| Remote Start | |||
| Third Row Seat | |||
| Tilt Wheel | |||
| Tilt/Telescoping Steering Wheel | |||
Frequently asked questions
Was the 2009 Kia Borrego an all-new model?
Yes. The 2009 Borrego was an all-new, truck-based three-row SUV for the U.S. market, and it became the model's first and final U.S. model year.
Does the 2009 Kia Borrego seat seven people?
Yes. Every 2009 Borrego has seating for seven, a sliding second row, and second- and third-row seats that fold flat for cargo.
What was notable about the 2009 Kia Borrego's powertrain?
The 2009 Borrego brought Kia's first V8 and first six-speed automatic to the U.S. lineup. The Limited is equipped with a 4.6-liter V8 and six-speed automatic.
How do the 2009 Kia Borrego LX, EX, and Limited differ?
The LX focuses on practical family essentials, the EX adds comfort features such as power front seats and dual-zone climate control, and the Limited has the richest equipment list, including a V8, leather seating, push-button start, a moonroof, and upgraded audio.
What driver aids are standard on the 2009 Kia Borrego?
The 2009 Borrego comes standard with rear parking sensors, hill-start assist to reduce rollback on inclines, and downhill brake control to help manage speed on steep descents.