Kia has officially launched its highly anticipated first pickup truck, the Tasman. Designed to compete with established models like the Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux, the Tasman brings a unique blend of distinctive styling and robust off-road capabilities to the midsize pickup segment.
The Tasman will be sold in various global markets, including South Korea, Australia, the Middle East, and Africa. This strategic decision reflects Kia’s focus on expanding its presence in these key regions.
The Tasman immediately stands out from the crowd with its unconventional design. The front fascia features vertical headlights positioned towards the edges, a prominent Kia logo, and a sculpted hood. The truck’s profile is characterized by distinctive body cladding, with an option for a more traditional wheel arch design.
The Tasman’s interior offers a comfortable and modern experience. The dashboard boasts a triple-screen layout, including a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 5-inch central display, and a 12.3-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system. Despite the abundance of digital displays, Kia has retained physical buttons and switches for frequently used functions.
The Tasman offers a choice of gasoline and diesel engines, depending on the market. In Korea, the truck is powered by a 2.5-liter gasoline engine delivering 277 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. For Australia, the Middle East, and Africa, a 2.2-liter turbodiesel engine is available, producing 207 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque. Both engines can be paired with either a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic transmission, and both two- and four-wheel drive configurations are offered.
Kia has equipped the Tasman with a double-wishbone front suspension and a rigid rear axle with leaf springs, ensuring a balance of ride comfort and off-road durability. The truck also boasts a water fording depth of 31.5 inches at speeds of 4.3 mph.
The Tasman’s cabin is designed to provide ample space and comfort. Kia claims class-leading headroom, shoulder room, and second-row legroom. The rear seats can be reclined between 22 and 30 degrees for added comfort. Additional features include dual wireless charging pads, a Harman Kardon sound system, and a folding console table.
Kia will offer a range of accessories for the Tasman, allowing owners to personalize their trucks. These accessories include beadlock-style wheels, side steps, and various bed configurations, such as a canopy with butterfly doors, a sliding tonneau cover, and a roll bar.
The Kia Tasman will first launch in Korea in the first half of 2025, followed by Australia, Africa, and the Middle East. Kia has identified Saudi Arabia as a key market for the Tasman, underscoring the truck’s global appeal.
Looking ahead, Kia is also developing an electric pickup truck, expected to arrive by 2027. This move aligns with the growing demand for electric vehicles across various segments, including the pickup truck market.
The Tasman represents a significant step for Kia as it enters the competitive pickup truck segment. With its unique design, robust capabilities, and range of powertrain options, the Tasman is poised to attract a wide range of customers in global markets.
