09 Kia Borrego – A Great Family Car By CHARITY BOOZIER Automotive Journalist I really enjoyed driving this car.  Of course, I like the mid size SUVs because they really fit my lifestyle.  As a busy mom who spends a lot of time the car and has to haul a variety of items, the Borrego certainly has my vote for an awesome car.  And Kia is really stepping up their game with their new line of cars.  The Borrego is designed to fit all the needs of our family, which may or may not be “typical”.  Let’s take a look.

Mom:
Mom likes this car, because it is easy to drive and does not feel like a tank on the road, yet still has plenty of interior room without feeling cramped.  The Borrego has a smooth ride and lots of control on the road provided by the traction and stability control systems.  And even though it may not fee like a big car, the back up warning system is invaluable in parking lots and driveways.  After having this system for a week, I truly missed it on my car.  I found it very helpful and safe.
Safety is a concern for most moms and the Borrego keep safety in mind.  Along with the standard dual front airbags, the driver has a knee airbag.  There are also curtain airbags.
Of course moms also like comfort and style.  The leather seat trim on the 1st and second rows give style and the heated first row provides great comfort during cold winter months.  Another comfort and luxury is the passenger power seat where mom sits when dad is driving. 

Kids:
The kids like the Borrego because it tows the boat or camper to the lake for the weekend.  With a 7500 lb towing capacity on the V8 model and 5000 on the V6 model, those weakened trips are much easier.  Here in East Texas camping and fishing are two common pastimes. 
Kids also like the third row seating, for this allows more friends to join the fun on any weekend activity from movies to sports to camping.  The third row increases the seating from 5 to 7.  With the Premium package, the 2nd and 3rd rows have their own climate control and all kids love that.  When not in use, the third row folds flat for more cargo space and a hard plastic base for easy clean up.  Not that any of our kids would leave a mess in the back of the car, but if they happen to forget, they can easily clean it up with a sponge and soap and water.

Dad:
.Dad likes some of the extras that make this car comfortable.  For instance, since mom drives it all week, his knees hit the dash when he tries to get in.  With the Luxury package, the memory seat, mirrors and steering column adjust with the touch of just one button.  Saves time and energy trying to set these to his frame.  Dad also likes the Infinity sound system.  And since he won’t admit it or stop for directions, the navigation system is really great.  It is an additional cost of $1500, but worth it for both mom and dad.
Finally, dad is thrilled that even though this is a smaller SUV, it still has power and capability with the 4WD and 4.6L V8 engine.  No losing points on a guy card for driving this car.
Dad is finally grateful that mom found a car that fits her needs and the family budget.  With a base price of $32,995, the Borrego accommodates most budgets

(Charity Boozier is an experienced journalist, specializing in new vehicle evaluations and reviews.  She is an active member of the Texas Auto Writers Association and is a graduate of LeTourneau University.)