Kia Mohave Export from Korea: Prices, Specs & Complete Buying Guide (2026)

A used Kia Mohave export from Korea costs between $9,500 and $38,000 FOB depending on generation, year, mileage, and trim. The Kia Mohave — sold in North America briefly as the Kia Borrego — is Korea's only body-on-frame full-size SUV and the country's direct answer to the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado. According to KAIDA, Kia exported approximately 8,200 used Mohave units in 2025, with 42% destined for the Middle East, 28% for Africa, and 22% for Central Asia and Russia. SH GLOBAL sources Kia Mohave inventory directly from Korean auctions at FOB prices 10–15% below typical dealer markups.

Whether you are importing a Mohave for GCC desert driving, African off-road duty, or Central Asian mountain terrain, this guide covers every generation (HM, HM facelift, HM2 Master), engine option, FOB price range, and market-specific recommendation. For a broader view of Korean premium SUVs, see our best Korean cars for export ranking, or compare against the unibody mid-size segment in our Kia Sorento export guide.

Why the Kia Mohave Is a Unique Korean Export SUV

The Kia Mohave export from Korea fills a specific niche that no other Korean SUV can match. Unlike the unibody Sorento, Santa Fe, Palisade, or Telluride — all monocoque crossovers — the Mohave is built on a dedicated ladder-frame body-on-frame chassis. That single engineering decision makes it uniquely suited for serious off-road, towing, and commercial duty that would stress unibody competitors.

Key advantages of the Kia Mohave for export markets:

• Body-on-frame durability: Proven on the rough roads of the Middle East, West Africa, and the steppes of Central Asia. Withstands repeated heavy loads, trailer towing, and corrugated road surfaces without stressing the body.
• V6 diesel power: The S2 3.0L V6 CRDi produces 260 hp and 569 Nm of torque — substantially more than the Toyota Prado's 2.8L 4-cylinder at 204 hp / 500 Nm.
• 7-seat standard: Full 3-row seating with generous third-row legroom — unlike many Japanese competitors that reserve 7 seats for top trims.
• Low-range 4WD: Part-time 4WD with 2H / 4H / 4L transfer case on mid/high trims — genuine off-road capability, not just AWD.
• LHD standard: All Korean-market Mohaves are left-hand drive, compatible with more than 160 countries across the Middle East, Africa, and Central Asia.
• Price advantage: Typically $8,000–$15,000 cheaper FOB than a comparable-year Toyota Land Cruiser Prado.

According to KAMA (Korea Automobile Manufacturers Association), the Mohave has accounted for approximately 3.1% of Kia's total SUV export volume annually since 2022 — a small share by volume, but a consistently high-margin one because the buyer profile is premium. For buyers who specifically need body-on-frame construction, the Mohave is effectively uncontested in the Korean used-car export market.

Kia Mohave Generations & Facelifts: Which to Buy

Although the Mohave has only ever had one nominal generation (HM), Kia has facelifted it twice — effectively giving buyers three distinct product eras to choose from. Each has its own price band, feature set, and ideal export market.

HM Original — "Borrego" Era (2008–2015)

The original HM Mohave launched in January 2008, sold briefly in North America as the Kia Borrego (2009–2011) before that market withdrew the model entirely. The Korean and export production continued. FOB prices for this era range from $9,500 to $15,000 for units typically with 150,000–250,000 km. The original S2 V6 diesel produced 250 hp, paired with a 6-speed automatic. Equipment was premium for its time but is dated today — CD stereo, basic multimedia, halogen headlamps. Best for buyers in West Africa and rural Central Asia where budget and proven mechanical simplicity matter most.

HM Facelift — "The Mature Mohave" (2016–2019)

The 2016 facelift is, in our view, the sweet spot of the Mohave export market. Kia refreshed the styling with a bolder front fascia, redesigned tail lamps with LED elements, and upgraded interior materials. More importantly, the drivetrain was retuned: the S2 3.0 V6 now produces 260 hp and 569 Nm, paired with an in-house 8-speed automatic. FOB prices range from $15,500 to $24,000. This is the highest-volume generation in our export transactions, particularly for Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Kazakhstan buyers.

HM2 Master — "The Premium Mohave" (2019–Present)

The 2019 "Mohave the Master" reveal redesigned the front clip, headlamps, tail lamps, and — critically — delivered a completely new interior with dual 12.3-inch displays, Nappa leather, heated/ventilated front and rear seats, Harman Kardon audio, and Kia's full ADAS suite (forward collision avoidance, blind spot monitor, lane keep assist, driver attention warning). FOB prices start at $22,000 for early 2020 units and reach $38,000 for 2024 top-spec Master Gravity trims with VIP rear captain's chairs. The preferred choice for Middle East luxury buyers. Related reading: best Korean cars for desert climate covers why the Mohave Master's ventilated seats and upgraded A/C matter in the GCC.

Kia Mohave FOB Price Guide (2026)

FOB (Free on Board) pricing for a Kia Mohave used car from Korea depends on generation, mileage, trim, and 4WD configuration. Below are SH GLOBAL's Q1 2026 transaction averages, sourced directly from Korean auctions (Glovis, Lotte, AJ Cell) and certified dealer networks.

Factors That Affect Kia Mohave FOB Price

• Mileage: Each 20,000 km above 100,000 km reduces FOB price by approximately $500–$900. Low-mileage units under 80,000 km command a 15–20% premium because they are rare.
• Trim level: Top-spec "Noblesse" or "Gravity" trims with panoramic sunroof, Nappa leather, heated/ventilated rear seats, and Harman Kardon sound cost 15–25% more than base "Trend" or "Luxury" trims.
• 4WD configuration: Part-time 4WD models command a $1,000–$2,000 premium over 2WD versions. Most export buyers prefer 4WD for resale value.
• Accident history: Non-accident units verified through the Korean insurance database command a 5–10% premium. Units with frame damage sell at steep discounts but should typically be avoided for export.
• Seasonal factors: Korean demand for used SUVs peaks in late autumn, pushing export supply prices up 3–5% in October–December. Our Korean used car price trends analysis covers seasonality in detail.

Engine & Drivetrain Options Explained

Understanding the Mohave's engine choices is simpler than most Korean exports because the Korean domestic market standardized on one powertrain for 95%+ of production.

3.0 S2 V6 CRDi Diesel (Primary Engine)

The dominant Mohave engine is Hyundai-Kia's S2 3.0L V6 common-rail turbo-diesel, internally known as the S2. Pre-2016 HM models produced 250 hp and 549 Nm; post-2016 HM facelift and HM2 Master produce 260 hp and 569 Nm. Paired with an in-house Hyundai 8-speed automatic transmission from 2016 onwards (6AT prior). Fuel consumption averages 10.5–12.5 L/100 km combined. The S2 is the export workhorse — proven globally, with spare-part support from Hyundai/Kia service networks across the Middle East, Africa, and CIS regions.

4.6 Tau V8 Gasoline (Launch Only, Extremely Rare)

At the original 2008 Mohave launch, Kia offered a 4.6L Tau V8 producing 330 hp. This engine was withdrawn from the Korean lineup within 18 months due to poor sales in the high-fuel-tax Korean market. Only a few hundred units exist, making it effectively unavailable in the used export market. If you need a gasoline full-size Korean SUV for export, consider the Hyundai Palisade — read our Hyundai Palisade export guide.

4WD System

The Mohave's 4WD system is a genuine part-time 4WD with electronically-actuated transfer case offering 2H (rear-wheel drive), 4H (4WD high range), and 4L (4WD low range for serious off-road). Limited-slip differential (LSD) is standard on most 4WD trims. Unlike the AWD systems in the Sorento or Santa Fe — which are biased toward on-road traction — the Mohave's system is designed for off-road, towing, and poor surface durability. Related context: our Korean SUV vs Japanese SUV export comparison explains where Korean SUVs historically trail body-on-frame Japanese rivals — and the Mohave is Korea's answer.

Best Kia Mohave Configurations by Market

Based on SH GLOBAL Co., Ltd.'s export data spanning 30+ countries, the recommended Kia Mohave export from Korea configurations vary substantially by destination climate, road conditions, and buyer preferences.

Middle East (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman)

• Recommended era: HM Facelift (2018–2019) or HM2 Master (2020+)
• Engine/Drivetrain: 3.0 V6 diesel, part-time 4WD
• Key features: Ventilated seats (front & rear), panoramic sunroof, Nappa leather, Harman Kardon audio, upgraded A/C cooling package
• Budget range: $18,500 – $38,000 FOB
• Notes: Dubai buyers overwhelmingly choose the Mohave Master Gravity trim in white, black, or graphite. Ventilated seats are not optional for GCC climate. Saudi Arabia enforces a 5-year age limit from the model year — verify age compliance before ordering. Also relevant: Oman import guide.

Africa (Kenya, Nigeria, Ghana, Tanzania, Uganda, DRC)

• Recommended era: HM 2013–2015 (budget) or HM Facelift 2016–2018 (sweet spot)
• Engine/Drivetrain: 3.0 V6 diesel, part-time 4WD
• Key features: Reinforced suspension, skid plates (if fitted), full-size spare, standard A/C
• Budget range: $11,500 – $19,500 FOB
• Notes: African buyers target the Mohave as a Toyota Prado alternative at a significantly lower price point. Kenya's 8-year age limit makes 2018 HM facelift units especially attractive. Nigerian and Ghanaian buyers prioritize older HM units without age restrictions. Read our Africa export guide for country-by-country import duty calculations.

Central Asia (Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan)

• Recommended era: HM Facelift (2016–2019) or HM2 Master (2020+)
• Engine/Drivetrain: 3.0 V6 diesel, part-time 4WD (mandatory for winter)
• Key features: Heated steering wheel, heated front and rear seats, winter package (block heater on some trims)
• Budget range: $15,500 – $30,000 FOB
• Notes: Kazakhstan's mountain terrain and Uzbekistan's growing middle-class demand have made the Mohave one of the strongest-growing Korean export models in the region — up 18% year-on-year in 2025 per KITA data. Heated seats and 4WD are nearly mandatory for winter use.

Russia & CIS

• Recommended era: HM Facelift or HM2 Master
• Notes: Russia has been the single largest Mohave export market historically. Current sanctions and payment complications have shifted volumes to Kazakhstan-gateway imports. Contact SH GLOBAL for current regulatory guidance.

How to Buy a Kia Mohave from Korea (6-Step Process)

Purchasing a Kia Mohave from Korea through SH GLOBAL follows a streamlined 6-step process. The entire timeline from vehicle selection to delivery at your port typically takes 4–8 weeks depending on destination.

1. Browse & Select: Browse Kia vehicles in our inventory or tell us your preferred era (HM, HM FL, HM2), trim, 4WD configuration, and budget.
2. Get a Quote: Receive a detailed FOB quotation within 24 hours, including VIN, spec sheet, auction grade, Korean insurance history summary, and estimated CIF cost to your destination port.
3. Inspection: SH GLOBAL conducts a 150-point inspection with HD photo/video report, including undercarriage and frame rail imaging (critical for body-on-frame SUVs).
4. Payment: Secure payment via international wire transfer (T/T) or L/C for larger orders. A 30% deposit reserves the vehicle; the balance is due before vessel loading.
5. Shipping: We arrange Ro-Ro or container shipping from Incheon, Busan, or Pyeongtaek. Full export documentation (B/L, Commercial Invoice, Export Declaration, Certificate of Title de-registration) is handled.
6. Delivery: Track your shipment in real-time. We provide every document required for customs clearance at destination.

For a broader walkthrough of Korean used car purchasing, read our step-by-step buying process guide. First-time buyers may also find our Korean used car inspection process helpful.

Kia Mohave vs Toyota Land Cruiser Prado: Head-to-Head

The most common question SH GLOBAL receives on the Mohave is how it compares to its primary Japanese rival — the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado. Both target the mid-luxury body-on-frame SUV segment. Here is a data-driven comparison based on SH GLOBAL's 2025–2026 export transactions and standard model specifications.

Verdict: The Kia Mohave offers substantially more power, more torque, more equipment, and a much lower FOB price at comparable year. The Toyota Prado holds dominant brand recognition and resale value, particularly in African and GCC markets. For buyers who plan to use the vehicle for 5+ years, the Mohave represents far better purchase value. For buyers prioritizing short-term resale or operating in markets dominated by Toyota service infrastructure, the Prado retains an edge. For a broader brand-level analysis, see our Hyundai vs Toyota used car comparison.

Kia Mohave Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist

Because the Mohave is a body-on-frame SUV often used for heavier duty, pre-purchase inspection requires specific attention to chassis components in addition to standard checkpoints. SH GLOBAL performs a full 150-point inspection on every unit, but these are the Mohave-specific items buyers should verify.

Engine (S2 3.0 V6 CRDi)

• Timing chain condition: The S2 uses a chain rather than a belt, but chain stretch and guide wear can appear after 150,000 km. Listen for rattle at cold start.
• EGR cooler integrity: Pre-2016 units had EGR cooler cracking issues. Check for coolant loss and creamy residue in the oil cap.
• Turbo shaft play: Single variable-geometry turbo — check for end-float and excessive shaft movement.
• DPF / SCR status: Post-2015 units have particulate filters and (from 2018) SCR urea injection. Verify regeneration frequency and AdBlue top-up history.
• Injector balance: Diagnostic scan for injector correction values — imbalanced injectors indicate impending replacement.

Drivetrain & 4WD

• Transfer case actuator: Electronic transfer case is common failure point. Confirm 2H, 4H, 4L all engage smoothly.
• LSD differential operation: Clutch-type LSD should engage positively — excessive wear causes slippage.
• CV joint & driveshaft condition: Check for boot cracks, grease loss, vibration in 4H mode.
• Transmission shift quality: 8AT should shift smoothly 1–8. Shudder during light throttle indicates torque converter issues.

Chassis, Suspension & Body

• Frame rail inspection: Critical for body-on-frame SUVs. Check for rust, welding repairs, or impact damage particularly at crossmembers.
• Rear air suspension (higher trims): Compressor failure and airbag leaks are known issues — verify ride height equal left/right, no compressor over-cycling.
• Body mount bushings: Rubber body-to-frame mounts degrade over time — check for clunking over bumps.
• Panel alignment: Door gaps and hood alignment reveal prior accident repair.
• Korean insurance database record: SH GLOBAL provides this for every vehicle — shows accident, flood, theft, ownership history.

Electrical & Interior

• All ADAS functions (HM2 Master only) — forward collision, BSM, LKA, adaptive cruise
• Heated/ventilated seat operation (front and, on Gravity trim, rear)
• Panoramic sunroof seal integrity and motor operation
• Dual 12.3" display function, navigation GPS reception

Shipping & Delivery Timeline

Once your Kia Mohave passes inspection and payment is confirmed, shipping timelines from Korea are as follows:

• Middle East (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman): 18–25 days via Ro-Ro from Incheon or Pyeongtaek port
• East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda): 25–35 days via container from Busan port
• West Africa (Nigeria, Ghana): 35–45 days via container from Busan port
• Central Asia (Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan): 20–30 days via multimodal (sea + rail) transport through Vladivostok
• Russia / CIS: Current transit times vary — contact SH GLOBAL for destination-specific estimates

Note that because the Mohave is tall (1,815 mm) and long (4,930–4,945 mm), Ro-Ro is typically preferred over container for units destined to Middle East to save freight cost. For Africa, 40-foot high-cube containers work well for single-vehicle shipments. For a detailed breakdown of Ro-Ro vs container shipping trade-offs, read our complete shipping logistics guide.