Kia Mohave (Borrego) - a bright representative of the class of sports utility vehicles (SUV) from the Korean automaker. It is widely used in South Korea and the USA, since 2009 it has been supplied to Russia. The 5-door SUV is offered in three trim levels and is equipped with three types of engines.
Name
The official name of the model is Kia Mohave. Under this name, the car went on sale first in Korea, and then in other regions of the world. However, to enter the North American market, the marketing service suggested using a different brand, more understandable to the Americans. As a result, it was decided to rename the SUV into the Kia Borrego.
Anza Borrego is a California state natural park located in the Colorado Desert. Thus, the manufacturer emphasizes the high maneuverability of the machine and its suitability for extreme travel.
History of creation
In the 1990-2000s, the United States embraced the fashion for SUV class cars. Large capacious SUVs with a high comfortable fit for the driver and passengers significantly crowded out traditional passenger cars such as a sedan, hatchback and station wagon. Powerful, strong, able to move on the road, they embodied the dreams of ordinary Americans about safe driving.
The Asian company also decided to “grab some of its pie” amid the high popularity of SUVs. Peter Schreyer, previously a senior designer at Audi, was invited to develop the new model. In 2005, a concept car was shown at the Detroit Auto Show, and in 2008, mass production of the Kia Mohave began. The first batches were distributed exclusively on the Korean peninsula. After minor changes and certification, a model called Borrego entered the US and Canada markets.
Description
Kia Mohave embodied in its image the main features of a sports-utility car. It has a solid size, high ground clearance and a spacious lounge. A large trunk allows you to take on a trip or on a barbecue a significant supply of provisions, inventory and equipment.
The appearance of the model is strict, solid, without designer frills. A large radiator grill, diamond-shaped headlights and slightly marked wheel arches give the appearance a touch of brutality. Bright colors are called upon to diversify the classic image.
Plastic body kits along the entire length of the body protect the lower body from gravel, sand and dirt. Roof rails allow you to carry bulky cargo, whether it is an additional box-trunk, canoe, bicycle or something else.
The salon is a miniature mobile home. Three rows of seats with a large distance underfoot allow six passengers to move comfortably. Each of them is equipped with headrests, trimmed with leather and fabric. In the middle row there is a place for a "small" seventh crew member (for example, a child).
According to reviews, Kia Mohave gives the impression of a comfortable car in every sense. The quality of the materials used in the decoration is good, the design and ergonomics are at their best. It is unnecessary to talk about the presence of such things as air conditioning, an on-board computer (in more recent versions), a control unit, a multimedia system, an adjustment of the steering column and seats, power windows. By the way, the steering wheel and armrest of the door on the driver's side are dotted with buttons of additional functions.
Specifications
Kia Mohave (Borrego) became the largest SUV in the line of the Korean manufacturer and was such until the lineup change. Moreover, he stood out among his brothers at an affordable cost ($ 23,000- $ 35,000), for which he was repeatedly awarded various awards.
The car has a frame structure, which adds rigidity and impact resistance. To overcome obstacles and maintain stability in hazardous areas, an air-adjustable suspension, a descent / ascent control system and a specially developed automatic transmission operating in high and low ranges help.
The gasoline engine lineup is the second-generation Lambda II 3.8 L V6 and Hyundai Tau V8. "Lambda" develops a capacity of 276 liters. from. (206 kW) and allows towing cargo weighing 2.3 tons. The Tau V8 is tuned to deliver less power, but more torque. It creates a craving of 361 liters. from. (269 kW) and has a carrying capacity of 3.4 tons. For fans of diesel engines since 2010, a more economical power unit V6 3.0 VLT VGT with a turbocharger is offered.
Other characteristics:
- Drive Type: rear / full.
- Transmission: 5/6-speed automatic transmission (with gasoline engines); 8-speed automatic transmission (with diesel engines).
- Length: 4.88 m.
- Height: 1.81 m.
- Width: 1.91 m.
- Wheelbase: 2.9 m.
Owner reviews
Kia Mohave has established itself as a reliable, convenient, inexpensive car. It is perfect for long family trips with children and allows you to additionally carry a considerable load. When unfolded, soft chairs turn into a comfortable bed. Among other SUVs, the model is characterized by moderate fuel consumption. The most economical is the diesel version with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Actual consumption on the highway fluctuates around 8 liters per 100 kilometers. The gasoline version in urban conditions consumes about 13-15 liters.
Ambiguous opinions are expressed by car owners about the air suspension. It is good in off-road conditions, but on the pavement it is sensitive to small bumps. The weak point is the clearance sensors - often fail. An unconditional plus is excellent handling (for a large SUV); on the track, the model behaves no worse than a brisk sedan.