What to Know About the 2025 Kia Mohave Diesel SUV

If you're searching for a full-size, body-on-frame SUV with strong off-road performance and a reliable diesel powertrain, the 2025 Kia Mohave may be on your radar. While Kia has not officially confirmed a new model year update for the Mohave in all markets, evidence from recent regional releases, facelift models, and ongoing production suggests that an updated 2025 version will likely continue the legacy of its rugged predecessor—offering a robust 3.0L V6 turbo-diesel engine, advanced 4WD systems, and premium interior appointments tailored for comfort and capability in challenging terrain ✅.

Understanding the Kia Mohave: A Global Full-Size SUV

The Kia Mohave, known as the Kia Borrego in earlier U.S. markets (2009–2013), is a flagship SUV designed primarily for regions that demand durability, towing strength, and spacious three-row seating. Unlike unibody crossovers like the Sorento or Telluride, the Mohave uses a traditional body-on-frame construction 🏭, which enhances its off-road resilience and load-bearing capacity. This architecture makes it ideal for overlanding, towing heavy trailers, or navigating rough rural roads where structural rigidity matters.

Although Kia discontinued the Borrego in North America over a decade ago, the Mohave remains in active production and periodic refreshment for select international markets—including South Korea, the Middle East, Russia, and parts of Latin America. The most recent generation launched in 2019 with a significant facelift and upgraded technology suite, and this platform continues into what is being referred to informally as the 2025 Kia Mohave.

Expected Features and Specifications for 2025

As of mid-2025, no major redesign has been announced for the Mohave. However, minor updates such as revised trim levels, infotainment enhancements, or improved driver assistance features could be included in 2025 model-year vehicles depending on the region. Below is a detailed breakdown of what buyers can realistically expect based on current data from available 2023–2024 models still in production:

⚙️ Engine and Performance

The heart of the Mohave remains the proven 3.0-liter V6 CRDi turbo-diesel engine. In the latest iterations (including the facelifted 2019+ models), this engine produces approximately 260 horsepower and 56.0 kg·m (549 Nm) of torque, delivered through a smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission ⚙️. Fuel economy ranges between 9.3–9.4 L/100 km (25.3–25.0 US mpg) under mixed driving conditions¹.

This diesel engine is praised for its low-end pulling power, making it well-suited for:
✅ Towing up to 3,500 kg (7,700 lbs)
✅ Highway cruising with minimal engine strain
✅ Off-road crawling thanks to immediate torque delivery

It's worth noting that while some forums speculate about potential gasoline variants or hybrid options, there is no confirmation of alternative powertrains for the 2025 model year. The diesel variant remains the standard and only widely available option outside of South Korea.

🛠️ Drivetrain and Off-Road Capability

The Mohave comes standard with full-time four-wheel drive and a two-speed transfer case, allowing drivers to switch between 2H, 4H, and 4L modes. Additional features enhancing off-road performance include:

• Dedicated downhill brake control
• Electronic locking rear differential (on higher trims)
• Multi-terrain traction management system
• Bodily protected undercarriage components

Videos and owner reports from real-world use—such as those documented by enthusiasts on YouTube channels like Asian Petrolhead—demonstrate the Mohave’s ability to handle rocky trails, sand dunes, and muddy inclines effectively². Its approach angle, departure angle, and ground clearance are competitive within its class, though exact figures vary slightly by market specification.

🛋️ Interior Space and Comfort

The 2025 Kia Mohave is expected to retain the same interior layout as recent models: a roomy cabin with seating for up to eight passengers across three rows. Second-row captain’s chairs are available on higher trims, reducing capacity to seven but improving comfort.

Key interior features likely to carry over include:

• Leather upholstery with heated and ventilated front seats
• Tri-zone automatic climate control
• 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation
• Wireless smartphone connectivity (Apple CarPlay & Android Auto)
• Digital instrument cluster
• Rear-seat entertainment system (optional)

Storage space behind the third row is modest (~200 liters), but folding both rear rows flat opens up over 2,600 liters of cargo volume—sufficient for large gear, camping equipment, or moving bulky items 🚚.

🛡️ Safety and Driver Assistance Technology

Safety has been significantly upgraded since the original Borrego era. The modern Mohave includes a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), including:

• Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA)
• Lane Keeping Assist (LKA)
• Blind-Spot Collision Warning (BCW)
• Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist
• Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go
• Surround-View Monitor

These technologies help mitigate risks during long-distance travel or urban driving, balancing the vehicle’s off-road focus with everyday usability 👥.

Market Availability and Regional Differences

One of the most common questions among international buyers is: Is the 2025 Kia Mohave available in my country? The answer depends heavily on location.

In general, the Mohave is sold in the following key markets:

• 🇰🇷 South Korea (domestic production and primary market)
• 🇦🇪 UAE and other GCC countries (popular due to high heat tolerance and dust resistance)
• 🇷🇺 Russia (despite geopolitical challenges, limited imports continue via gray-market channels)
• 🇨🇱 Chile, 🇵🇪 Peru, and other Latin American nations
• 🇿🇦 South Africa (limited availability)

Notably, the Mohave is not officially sold in the United States, Canada, or Western Europe. Some owners import units privately, but compliance with emissions and safety regulations (such as EPA and DOT standards) can be complex and costly 🔍.

Region	Available?	Fuel Type	Transmission	Notes
South Korea	Yes	Diesel	8AT	Latest tech, multiple trims
Middle East	Yes	Diesel	8AT	Popular; suited for desert climates
USA / Canada	No	N/A	N/A	Gray market only; import restrictions apply
Western Europe	No	N/A	N/A	Not type-approved for EU emissions
Latin America	Limited	Diesel	8AT	Import-dependent; pricing varies

Reliability and Ownership Experience

Owners frequently praise the Mohave’s mechanical durability, especially when maintained properly. On forums like Reddit’s r/kia and Facebook groups dedicated to the Borrego/Mohave community, users report longevity exceeding 200,000 kilometers with routine service³.

Critical maintenance points for diesel models include:

• Annual replacement of the diesel fuel filter
• Regular DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) checks in stop-and-go driving environments
• Timing chain inspection after 150,000 km
• Use of high-quality low-sulfur diesel fuel

While the 3.0L V6 diesel is generally robust, cold-start issues have been reported in extremely low temperatures unless glow plug systems are functioning correctly. Additionally, electronic modules related to the infotainment and ADAS systems may require software updates over time.

Will There Be a New Design or Platform Change?

As of mid-2025, there is no official indication that Kia plans to replace the current Mohave platform. Rumors dating back to 2022 suggested that a next-generation model might adopt hybrid or even electric powertrains, possibly aligning with Kia’s broader sustainability goals. However, these remain speculative.

More concrete evidence comes from spy shots of a potential Kia pickup truck prototype believed to be based on the Mohave’s ladder frame⁴. If developed, such a vehicle could share components with a future Mohave update, potentially influencing suspension tuning, chassis reinforcements, or electronics integration.

For now, the 2025 model appears to be a continuation of the existing design with possible trim-level adjustments rather than a generational shift.

How Does It Compare to Competitors?

The Mohave competes directly with other body-on-frame SUVs such as:

• Toyota Land Cruiser Prado / LC250 Series
• Nissan Patrol
• Mercedes-Benz G-Class (in luxury positioning)
• Jeep Wagoneer (in size and seating)

Compared to these, the Mohave offers several advantages:

• Lower acquisition cost than the G-Class or top-tier Land Cruiser
• More modern interior tech than the Patrol
• Better fuel efficiency than V8-powered rivals

However, it lacks the brand prestige of Toyota or Mercedes and has limited resale support outside core markets. Parts availability may also be slower in regions without official dealerships.

Common Misconceptions About the 2025 Kia Mohave

Several myths circulate online about the Mohave’s status and capabilities:

❌ 'The Kia Mohave Has Been Discontinued Globally'

False. While the Mohave was discontinued in certain markets (e.g., North America), it remains in production and actively marketed in others, particularly South Korea and the Middle East. Kia’s official media center continues to feature press releases and brochures for the Mohave⁵.

❌ 'Kia No Longer Makes Diesel Vehicles'

Incorrect. Although Kia has shifted focus toward electrification, diesel engines are still used in commercial vehicles and select SUVs for markets where diesel fuel is prevalent and preferred for towing and fleet operations.

❌ 'The 2025 Model Includes a Hybrid Option'

Unconfirmed. Despite industry trends, Kia has not announced any hybrid or plug-in variant for the Mohave. Any claims suggesting otherwise should be treated skeptically until verified by official sources.

Should You Buy a 2025 Kia Mohave?

The decision hinges on your needs and location:

You should consider the 2025 Kia Mohave if:

• You live in a region where it's officially sold and supported
• You need a durable, diesel-powered SUV for off-roading or towing
• You value spacious seating and modern tech at a competitive price point
• You plan to maintain it according to schedule, especially regarding diesel-specific services

Avoid it if:

• You’re in North America or Western Europe and unwilling to navigate gray-market import laws
• You prioritize cutting-edge autonomous driving features or EV readiness
• You expect widespread dealership networks for quick repairs or part replacements
• Your daily driving is mostly urban with little need for 4WD or high ground clearance

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Below are answers to common follow-up questions from users researching the 2025 Kia Mohave:

❓ Is the Kia Mohave coming back to the USA?

No official plans have been announced for the Mohave’s return to the U.S. market. The Telluride fills the role of Kia’s flagship SUV in North America, though it uses a unibody platform and lacks true off-road hardware like a low-range transfer case.

❓ What is the fuel efficiency of the Kia Mohave 3.0 diesel?

The 3.0L V6 diesel achieves approximately 9.3–9.4 L/100 km (25.3–25.0 US mpg) in combined driving. Real-world results depend on driving style, terrain, and payload.

❓ How reliable is the Kia Mohave diesel engine?

When maintained properly—especially with annual diesel filter changes—the 3.0L CRDi engine is considered highly reliable, with many examples exceeding 200,000 km without major issues.

❓ Does the 2025 Kia Mohave have three rows of seats?

Yes, the 2025 model retains three rows of seating, accommodating up to eight passengers. Second-row bench or captain’s chairs vary by trim level.

❓ Can I tow with the Kia Mohave?

Yes, the Mohave has a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 kg (7,700 lbs) when equipped with the appropriate hitch and wiring, making it suitable for large boats, horse trailers, or fifth wheels.