When the 2009 Kia Borrego hit U.S. shores just over one year ago, we thought its worst feature was its market timing. With high gasoline prices a not-too-distant memory and the midst of a recession upon the global economy, there had been better times to launch a full-size, body-on-frame SUV. Now, we have a report that claims abysmal sales in its maiden year have taken a toll on the Borrego - and may have effectively killed its presence in the U.S.
With just 9510 Kia Borrego SUVs sold in the U.S. by the end of November, a report has hit, citing an unnamed Kia spokesman who says the model won't be making a return to U.S. soil in 2010. According to the report, Kia was hoping for sales of more than double that figure annually - 20,000 units or more. We hear that sales in the Borrego's home Korean market have been better, the vehicle being called the Mohave there. According to the report, Kia has not ruled out bringing the Borrego back to the U.S. when sales conditions improve.
TT currently has a long-term 2009 Kia Borrego EX 4X4 in its fleet, and comments have been positive - the traditional ladder-framed SUV providing high utility at a relatively low cost. Stay tuned for more information on the Borrego's fate right here on Motor Trend Online.
UPDATE: We have confirmed with a Kia spokesperson that the Borrego will with withdrawn from the U.S. market for the 2010 model year. Kia is seeking to reduce the current Borrego inventory in U.S. showrooms, before reassessing the model and bringing it back to the market at a later point in time.