Remember the Borrego – Kia’s unsuccessful effort to penetrate North America’s large SUV class back in 2009? The Koreans dropped it from the US the same year, but continued offering it as the Mojave in other markets.
Now, in its eighth year of production, the Mojave is sold in the Middle East, Central Asia and Russia, with Kia hoping to further extend its life through a mild facelift, until it brings the Telluride Concept to the market.
Spotted in Germany, the disguised Mojave prototype appears to have gained a new grille, head-and tail-lamp fixtures, and lower fog lights. It’s likely that the camouflage is hiding a few more changes, including redesigned bumpers, while Kia may also give the interior a slight makeover to bring it up to date.
Depending on the region, the current Mojave can be had with a choice of two petrol units, a 274PS (270hp) 3.8-liter Lambda V6 and a larger 4.6-liter Tau V8, and a 3.0-liter V6 diesel delivering 255PS (252hp).
Interestingly, our spies tell us that Kia doesn’t usually test prototypes in Germany unless they will be sold in Europe and North America, but given the age of the Mojave, its presence could be the exception to the rule.
Photo Credits: CarPix for CarScoops
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