2020 Borrego Prototype Suggests Kia Is Finally Readying A Replacement

The first-gen Kia Mohave (aka Mohave in other markets) flopped in the United States and was quietly replaced by the Sorento. Despite this setback, the SUV continues to live on overseas.

That brings us to these new spy photos which appear to show the next-generation Borrego undergoing cold weather testing. Looking far more modern than its processor, which dates back to 2008, The next-generation SUV has a more squared off front fascia with a vertical grille that’s flanked by large headlights with distinctive vertical daytime running lights. Further below, we can see triangular air intakes with LED fog lights.

Moving further back, the Borrego has side steps and a streamlined bodywork that appears to be free of plastic body cladding. The SUV also sports an evolutionary greenhouse with a more angular beltline.

Additional styling details are hard to make out, but we can see a roof rack and six-spoke alloy wheels. There has also been speculation that the model will be influenced by the Telluride which debuted at the North American International Auto Show last month.

Little else is known about the SUV at this point, but the South Korean-spec Borrego features a 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine that develops 256 hp (191 kW / 260 PS) and 412 lb-ft (560 Nm) of torque. It is paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission and a four-wheel drive system with high and low range.

It remains unclear if the new Borrego will retain its focus on off-road capability, as its predecessor was marketed as a luxury vehicle that can travel off the beaten path. Or if it will make it Stateside, for that matter. In any case, in its home market the current model starts at ₩41,480,000 ($37,055 / €32,344 / £28,323) which makes it ₩13,850,000 ($12,372 / €10,799 / £9,457) more expensive than the Sorento.