Kia has finally entered the pickup truck game, and they’re not holding back. The brand-new Tasman made its world debut recently, showing up simultaneously at motor shows in Saudi Arabia and Tasmania – a clever nod to its Australian connection.
This isn’t just another truck trying to blend in with the crowd. The Tasman brings a bold, boxy design that’s more reminiscent of the Jeep Gladiator than the traditional styling we see from Toyota and Ford. But don’t let the unique looks fool you – underneath, this truck means serious business.
What Makes the Tasman Different
Bold Design Language
The Tasman stands out with its upright stance and chunky fender flares. Kia calls it a “basic, honest form” that doesn’t rely on oversized styling tricks. The expansive grille features Kia’s signature Tiger Face design with vertical lighting elements that give it a distinctive road presence.
You’ll have nine color options to choose from, including two brand-new additions to Kia’s palette: Kia Olive and Fusion Black. Whether you want something subtle or bold, there’s likely a shade that matches your personality.
Engine Options That Deliver
For Australian buyers, the focus will be on the 2.2-liter turbo-diesel engine. This powerplant delivers 154kW of power and 441Nm of torque, putting it right in the competitive sweet spot against established players. While the torque figure sits slightly below some competitors, the Tasman matches them where it counts most – towing capacity.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.2L turbo-diesel 4-cylinder |
| Power Output | 154kW |
| Torque | 441Nm |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual or 8-speed auto |
| Towing Capacity | 3,500kg |
| Fuel Economy (Target) | 7.6L/100km |
| 0-100km/h | 10.4 seconds |
Three Variants to Choose From
Base Model
The entry-level Tasman keeps things straightforward while still offering essential pickup truck capabilities. Perfect for those who need functionality without frills.
X-Line Variant
This mid-tier option adds four-wheel drive as standard, along with selectable drive modes including Eco, Smart, Sand, Mud, and Snow. It’s designed for people who need versatility in different driving conditions.
X-Pro: The Off-Road Champion
The range-topper gets serious about adventure with 252mm of ground clearance (28mm more than the X-Line), all-terrain tires on 17-inch gloss-black wheels, and an additional Rock mode. It also features X-Trek mode that maintains low speeds off-road without pedal input.
Interior That Actually Works
Smart Storage Solutions
Kia focused on making the cabin genuinely useful. You’ll find a large folding console table, storage bins under the rear seats with 33 liters of capacity, and dual wireless charging pads. The rear seats even recline up to 30 degrees for passenger comfort.
Technology Integration
The dashboard features a widescreen setup with a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, 5.0-inch climate display, and 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Physical buttons remain for key functions – a welcome touch for people who actually use their trucks for work.
Built for Australian Conditions
The Tasman can wade through 800mm of water at speeds up to 7km/h, using waterproof connectors for critical interior components. Ground clearance varies by variant, with the X-Pro offering the most at 252mm.
Practical Load Area
The tub measures 1,512mm long by 1,572mm wide, with 540mm of depth and 1,173 liters of cargo capacity. Standard corner steps make loading easier, and there’s a 240V power outlet for tools or equipment.
Safety and Assistance Features
Modern driver assistance comes standard, including lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and Highway Driving Assist 2. The Remote Smart Park Assist feature lets you move the truck in and out of parking spaces using just the key fob – handy in tight work sites.
When and Where You Can Get One
Kia plans to launch the Tasman in Korea during the first half of 2025, followed by rollouts in Australia, Africa, and the Middle East. Australian pricing hasn’t been announced yet, but expect competitive positioning against the HiLux and Ranger.
The truck will come with Kia’s comprehensive seven-year warranty and capped-price service plan, providing peace of mind that’s often missing in the commercial vehicle space.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When will the Kia Tasman be available in Australia?
A: Following its Korean launch in early 2025, the Tasman will arrive in Australia later in 2025, though specific timing hasn’t been confirmed.
Q: What’s the towing capacity compared to competitors?
A: The Tasman matches its main rivals with a 3,500kg braked towing capacity, despite having slightly lower torque figures.
Q: Will there be single-cab variants available?
A: Yes, Kia has confirmed single-cab configurations will be offered, though dual-cab versions will launch first.
2025 JAC Hunter PHEV Breaks Cover as Ranger and Shark 6 Rival
