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Kia Tasman – What do i need to know from the reveal

Rob Fraser
Kia Tasman Line-up

Kia Tasman redefines the pickup truck with purposeful design and innovative technology, delivering true practicality

Tasman Dual Cab Pick-Up Pricing confirmed for pre orders.

Kia Australia has conformed pricing for the Dual Cab Pick-Up variant of its all-new light commercial utility vehicle and most Australian product ever – the Kia Tasman – with pre-orders now open ahead of its arrival into Kia dealerships in July.

The Dual Cab Pick-Up range opens with a very competitive $42,990 RRP for the S 4×2 trim and tops out at $74,990 RRP for the X-Pro 4×4 flagship that has been specifically engineered for enhanced off-road performance characteristics.

Kia Australia Chief Executive Officer, Damien Meredith, said “The Tasman is by far Kia Australia’s most anticipated model yet, reflecting the scale of Australia’s ute market and the passion of these owners.

“We are confident the input from Kia Australia at each stage of its development, along with its competitive value and versatility, will make it a very strong contender in the local market.”

Kia Tasman launch timeline

Dual Cab Pick-Up trims will launch concurrently in July. The Dual Cab Chassis will arrive approximately one month later followed by the Single Cab Chassis in late 2025.

Pricing for these two variants will be announced at a later date.

Based on an all-new ladder chassis platform, the Tasman is available across five trimlines; S, SX, SX+, X-Line, and X-Pro, across 4×2 and 4×4 layouts.

The Single Cab Chassis is offered in either S 4×2, S 4×4, or SX 4×4. While the Dual Cab Chassis can be chosen as either S 4×4 or SX 4×4.

Dual Cab Pick-Up spans all five trimlines, from S 4×2 to S 4×4, SX 4×4, SX+ 4×4, X-Line 4×4, and X-Pro 4×4.

Payload ratings

All Tasmans will be available with payload ratings exceeding 1,000kg, with even the best equipped X-Pro 4×4 capable of carrying 1,013kg. For those needing to maximise payload capability, the base S 4×2 Single Cab Chassis is rated for 1,124kg.

All Dual Cab Pick-Up variants are also available with a reduced payload option specifically at meeting the criteria for novated leases, which often require a payload of under 1,000kg.

This diversity of options is backed by impressive overall load carrying and tow ratings for all variants aside from those intended for novated leasing, with all payload ratings exceeding 1,000kg based on a gross vehicle mass (GVM) rating of 3,250kg across all variants, contributing to a gross combination mass (GCM) rating of 6,200kg.

This GCM figure is based on a braked tow rating of 3,500kg, which matches the industry benchmark for light commercial utes. Unbraked loads are limited to 750kg.

Tasman towing

Helping to manage heavier towed loads as safely as possible is an Integrated Trailer Brake Controller (ITBC), which is fitted to all Tasmans, enabling electronic trailer brakes to be calibrated for optimal stability, with an override function within easy reach of the driver.

The ITBC integrates with Towing Mode (TBC), which enables the driver to set up specific towed loads and optimise all other towing related functions including Trailer Sway Control.

Tub Size and storage

Dual Cab Pick-Up Tasmans set a new benchmark for tub size, with the ability to fit an Australian pallet within the tub along with an overall capacity of 1,173 litres (VDA) thanks to overall measurements of 1,512mm in length, 1,572mm of width, and 540mm of height.

All dual cabs also set a new benchmark for under-seat storage, with a 45-litre area under the second row seat base enabling smaller items to be stored within the cabin out of view.

Significantly, this under-seat storage is maintained with the segment-first slide and recline function for the second row seating on X-Line and X-Pro models, where the seat cushion slides forward while the seatback reclines to create a comfortable and relaxing experience for rear passengers.

Interior bits

Another segment first is a folding console table on X-Line and X-Pro models, where the centre console lid folds out to form a versatile table for meals, work and more.

X-Line and X-Pro models are also equipped with dual wireless smartphone charging capability, enabling the charging of two phones at once.

All Tasmans feature Kia’s latest integrated panoramic display, comprised of 12.3” driver, 5” climate control, and 12.3” multimedia displays, along with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and Kia Connect with intelligent remote control functions as well as innovative in-car services and Over-The-Air (OTA) updates.

Tasman colours

The Kia Tasman is available in eight exterior colours across the line-up, with three two-tone interior trim varieties spread across the trimlines. Tasman S and SX models feature cloth trim, while SX+ steps up to a combination of cloth and artificial leather. The X-Line and X-Pro grades go a step further by featuring artificial leather throughout.

Kia Tasman Specification and Feature Overview

Model S 4×2 S 4×4 SX 4×4 SX+ 4×4 X-Line 4×4 X-Pro 4×4
Engine 2.2-litre four cylinder turbo diesel
Transmission Eight-speed automatic
Power/Torque 154kW / 440Nm
Wheels 17” black steel 17” alloy 18” alloy 17” black alloy

 Kia Tasman Trim details 

Tasman S

Kia Tasman SX

In addition to S:

Tasman SX+

In addition to SX:

Kia Tasman X-Line

In addition to SX+:

 Tasman X-Pro

In addition to X-Line:

 *Rear Fender Flare Storage is not available for vehicles in Tan Beige (TAM) and Clear White (UD) exterior colours. This is due to these two colours featuring body-coloured fender flares.

 

Trim S & SX SX+ X-Line & X-Pro
Colour Onyx Black/Medium Grey
Seat Material Cloth Cloth/Artificial Leather Artificial Leather

 

Exterior Colours

Kia Tasman Dual Cab Pick-Up pricing

Trim Drivetrain Body Type Body Coloured Fender Flares Payload < 1,000kg* RRP
S 4×2 Dual Pick-up x x $42,990
S x ✓ $42,990
S ✓ x $42,990
S ✓ ✓ $42,990
S 4×4 x x $49,990
SX x x $54,490
SX+ x x $62,390
X-Line x x $67,990
X-Pro x x $74,990
S ✓ x $49,990
SX ✓ x $54,490
SX+ ✓ x $62,390
X-Line ✓ x $67,990
X-Pro ✓ x $74,990
S x ✓ $49,990
SX x ✓ $54,490
SX+ x ✓ $62,390
X-Line x ✓ $67,990
X-Pro x ✓ $74,990
S ✓ ✓ $49,990
SX ✓ ✓ $54,490
SX+ ✓ ✓ $62,390
X-Line ✓ ✓ $67,990
X-Pro ✓ ✓ $74,990

Kia Tasman April Motorshow details

Kia Tasman X-Pro double cab pickup at Melbourne Motor Show April 2025

The Tasman ute was on display ahead of its Australian launch in July, with the early look at pre-production examples of Kia’s most Australian product ever giving a taste of the X-Pro double cab pickup that will sit at the top of the range.

The robust X-Pro trim has been specifically engineered for enhanced off-road performance characteristics.

The Tasman’s Melbourne Motor Show appearance coincides with the confirmation of some key details of its Australian specification.

This includes a segment-first slide and recline function for the second row seating on high-spec double cab models, where the seat cushion slides forward while the seatback reclines to create a comfortable and relaxing experience for rear passengers.

This complements segment-best under-seat storage of 45 litres for all double cab models, enabling smaller items to be stored within the cabin out of view.

Another segment first is a folding console table on upper spec models, where the centre console lid folds out to form a versatile table for meals, work and more.

Models featuring the folding console table will also be equipped with dual wireless smartphone charging capability, enabling the charging of two phones at once.

Designed to compete in one of the industry’s largest segments, Kia’s first ute marks a significant milestone for Kia Australia.
From concept design, naming decisions, focus group studies and extensive benchmarking tests, Kia Australia has played a pivotal role in shaping the Tasman, ensuring it meets the demands of our unique market.

It is anticipated the Tasman will establish new benchmarks for comfort and versatility within the light commercial vehicle segment.

Kia Tasman Reveal November 2024

Kia Tasman – in an exclusive reveal in Tasmania, Kia has shown the Tasman in the flesh. This 4WD Ute has been spoken of for years and it’s finally come to life.

Due for release in Australia sometime mid-2025, the Tasman enters into a competitive market segment with many buyers quite parochial in their choices.

Even though it’s an important segment, there are a lot of choices for buyers. Kia has a strong following and a history, albeit a few years ago, with dual range 4WD. Will it be enough?

 Quick thoughts after seeing it in the flesh update 5 Nov 2024 

Engine and drivetrain thoughts

Kia Tasman update 29 October 2024 Tasmania Australia

 Kia Corporation has today unveiled full details of the Kia Tasman, the brand’s first pickup truck.

Marking the latest addition to Kia’s extensive lineup, which includes sedan, SUV, commercial and PBV (Platform Beyond Vehicle) models, the Kia Tasman sets the benchmark for Kia’s future pickup range.

 Kia Tasman Highlights 

Seoul/Jeddah October 29, 2024 – Global reveal

Kia Corporation has today unveiled full details of the Kia Tasman, the brand’s first pickup truck.

Marking the latest addition to Kia’s extensive lineup, which includes sedan, SUV, commercial and PBV (Platform Beyond Vehicle) models, the Kia Tasman sets the benchmark for Kia’s future pickup range.

The Kia Tasman has been designed to push the boundaries of what’s possible from a pickup and invites customers to ‘Dive into a New Dimension.’

With purposeful design and cutting-edge technology, combined with class-leading convenience features and an ultra-spacious, comfortable cabin.

The Tasman is poised to redefine standards in the sector, allowing drivers to explore new horizons.

Leveraging more than five decades of expertise developing special-purpose vehicles, including off-roaders, the Kia Tasman is a truly transformative pickup truck that effortlessly meets the needs of both work and leisure activities.

Progressive Pickup to Support a Broader Lifestyle 

Injecting the legacy of Kia’s SUV models with exceptional off-road capability, including the robust Mohave. The Kia Tasman has been comprehensively engineered to meet customers’ diverse needs across all forms of terrain.

“Kia’s first-ever pickup truck was created from the ground up to transform the market. And respond to the growing preference for lifestyle-oriented trucks with advanced features,” said Ho Sung Song, President and CEO at Kia.

“The Kia Tasman is a progressive pickup truck that follows its own path – not the competition. The Kia Tasman combines true pickup values with exceptional capability and practicality. And advanced features that defy conventional thinking.

This essence is instilled in our global slogan ‘Dive into a New Dimension’. Enabling customers to broaden their horizons. It offers world-first solutions for those seeking a lifestyle vehicle for leisure and outdoor activities. While meeting the needs of small business operators, such as traders and farmers.”

Tasman – Exterior Design – A Fresh Approach to Aesthetics

The Kia design team deliberately shunned the familiar form language that has dominated the pickup genre for decades.

This fresh approach to aesthetics strips away the unnecessary to begin with a basic, honest form that highlights the vehicle’s sense of solid power. Through simple yet functional elements, without relying on the oversized styling that has come to dominate the pickup segment.

“Created especially for explorers, adventurers and people who like to get things done. The Kia Tasman is designed to serve as a dependable companion in every situation,” said Karim Habib, Executive Vice President and Head of Kia Global Design.

“Solid and capable, its design begins with an honest form, using simple and rugged elements to capture a spirit of practicality. The Kia Tasman is a pickup truck that effortlessly blends lifestyle and utility. And represents our commitment to always bring bold and innovative ideas to our customers.”

Kia Tasman projects

The Kia Tasman projects power, confidence and capability in equal measure. An expansive radiator grille and bumper design emphasize the pickup’s width. While the hood trim and grille, frame the familiar Kia Tiger Face. Featuring vertically oriented signature lighting incorporated into the headlamps.

The upright windshield and rear glass contribute to the Kia Tasman’s bold silhouette. Reinforced by the 45-degree angles of the vehicle’s striking graphic elements.

The unique fender design combines practical functions. Such as headlights and storage units, demonstrating functionality and clear, confident design.

At the rear, the Kia Tasman visually reinforces its highly practical nature. The tailgate showcases a bold, stamped logo, while the tailgate handle and high-mounted stop-lamp are seamlessly integrated for enhanced functionality and a utilitarian character.

A total of nine colors are available on the Kia Tasman:

Tasman – Interior Design – Purity and Practicality Combined

Just as Kia Tasman’s exterior aesthetic breaks free from conventional thinking. The pickup’s interior introduces a bold new dimension of design quality for pickup customers.

Purity and simplicity are prioritised in equal measure. Through a practical cabin that will remain a dependable partner to the user through the years.

The robust and rugged space is in keeping with the character of a pickup truck. The interior design leverages concise, symmetrical proportions to create a stable, balanced appearance.

Large air vents featuring a honeycomb pattern – a key theme of the interior – emphasise the functionality of the ventilation.

A multi-function steering wheel and the modern, minimalist lower center dashboard and tunnel sections with carefully positioned buttons provide intuitive control of the Kia Tasman’s advanced technology.

Luxurious, sophisticated shapes and details applied throughout the cabin raise the bar further for pickup interior design.

State-of-the-art

State-of-the-art 12.3-inch + 5-inch + 12.3-inch panoramic widescreen technology. These give the driver and passenger access to vehicle controls and advanced infotainment options.

An optional eight-speaker Harmon Kardon premium audio system allows users to take full advantage of the standard-fit Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.

To support its customers in new and more meaningful ways in both their business and leisure activities, Kia has equipped the Tasman’s interior with a broad range of innovative features and equipment.

These include:

The Kia Tasman also boasts best-in-segment headroom, shoulder room and second-row legroom of 940mm. With the rear seats able to recline between 22 and 30 degrees, ensuring a spacious and comfortable environment.

Like all Kia products, the Tasman includes the brand’s 10 must-have sustainability items such as:

The Kia Tasman’s interior trim is available in five colorways:

When selecting the more off-road focused X-Line and X-Pro models, customers have the choice between two-tone color options. Including Onyx Black/Medium Gray and Deep Green/Terracotta Brown.

Kia Tasman Trims and Specifications

The Kia Tasman is offered as a double cab base model and in X-Line and X-Pro trim. The X-Pro provides superior off-road performance thanks to its 28mm higher ground clearance, which totals 252mm.

It is equipped with 17-inch gloss-black wheels with all-terrain tires, while X-Line features larger 18-inch alloy wheels paired with highway and terrain tires.

Additionally, Kia provides customisable chassis cab variants to meet specific business needs. Along with single cab options that optimise bed space by reconfiguring the passenger compartment into a single row layout.

Customisation is central to the Kia Tasman’s appeal. With a range of accessories available designed to enhance leisure and work activities. Enabling consumers to tailor their orders to their specific preferences.

These accessories are standardised in design, innovative and unique in character. They provide versatile real-world solutions that enable users to make the most of their vehicle’s spaciousness, practicality and go-anywhere ability.

The Kia Tasman will be offered with four bed accessory configurations:

In addition, there will be a total of 13 accessory products offered, including two types of side steps and beadlock-style wheels.

The Tasman Single Decker features a canopy and butterfly doors for easy access, and a roof rack for a rooftop tent.

The Tasman Double Decker features a trunk equipped with butterfly doors and a sliding tonneau cover, offering customisable cargo space.

The Sports Roll Bar variant comes with a functional frame for mounting outdoor lifestyle items.

The Ladder Rack variant features a ladder-type rack and is also compatible with rooftop tents.

Tasman Drivetrain – Superior Performance and Comfort

Based upon a fully optimised body-on-frame platform, the Kia Tasman will be offered in Korea with a 281PS 2.5-liter petrol engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. With 421Nm of torque, the Kia Tasman can accelerate from 0-100km/h in 8.5 seconds and on to a maximum speed of 185km/h.

In the Australian market, the pickup will feature a 210PS (154Kw) 2.2-liter diesel engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Producing 441Nm of torque, the engine can propel the Kia Tasman from 0-100km/h in 10.4 seconds, while top speed remains unchanged.

In other regions, such as the Middle East and Africa, customers can choose between the 2.5-liter petrol engine equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission, and a 2.2-liter diesel engine with a choice of an eight-speed automatic or six-speed manual transmissions (depending on market).

Utilising an optimised composite bush structure to mount the Kia Tasman’s body to the frame-type chassis ensures improved rigidity, body control, stability and comfort.

Equally, the double wishbone front suspension units have been developed to improve ride and handling in all conditions.

The rear features a rigid axle with leaf springs for optimum robustness and load carrying capability, incorporating vertically mounted shock absorbers to ensure more effective damping and greater control, even at the extremes of suspension travel.

The capabilities provided by the front and rear suspension units are significantly enhanced by Kia’s frequency selective Sensitive Damper Control (SDC) and Hydraulic Rebound Stop technology.

These further minimise vibration transmitted to the cabin and improve body control and comfort, even on the roughest terrain.

Pickup-Specific Features – Safe Driving on All Terrains

To ensure that the Kia Tasman’s engine provides the level of protection expected by pickup customers when traversing water, Kia’s engineers have positioned the air intake inside the vehicle’s fender.

This gives all Kia Tasman variants the ability to ford water up to 800mm deep at a speed of 7km/h.

Further water ingress prevention measures, such as the use of waterproof connectors for selected interior parts, have also been taken to protect critical components, ensuring excellent durability in challenging conditions.

State-of-the-art all-terrain drivetrain technology tested and proven in numerous locations.

Including:

AWD System and 4WD

Both the X-Line and the X-Pro are equipped with all-wheel-drive as standard, which is optionally available on the base model.

The AWD system switches automatically to the configuration required to provide optimum traction on different road surfaces.

They offer three driving modes – ECO, Smart and Sport – with various terrain modes available within these settings depending on the relevant market.

The X-Pro model provides an additional Rock mode, specifically designed to enhance performance on challenging mountainous terrains.

In the Middle East and Africa, Desert, Mud, Snow and Rock modes are fitted to all-wheel-drive variants of the Kia Tasman.

Drive modes

In Australia and all other general markets, all-wheel-drive variants are equipped with Sand, Mud, Snow and Rock modes.

Further enhancements to the X-Pro variant include an automatically engaging rear Electronic Locking Differential (e-LD) and X-Trek mode.

X-Trek mode enables the vehicle to maintain a low speed off-road without the need for manual acceleration or braking. Ensuring smooth navigation through rough terrain.

The e-LD, located in the rear differential, provides advanced control over locking and unlocking, enhancing the vehicle’s adaptability and control in off-road scenarios.

Kia’s Ground View Monitor (GVM) provides drivers with a further level of confidence while traversing challenging off-road terrain.

By utilising the Kia Tasman’s camera and infotainment screens, the technology shows what is going on at ground level, allowing the driver to maneuver the vehicle precisely in tight areas.

Practicality ­– Work Everywhere

Kia’s designers and engineers have spared no detail to create a pickup truck that opens new dimensions of support for small business owners. These include traders, farmers and those working in outdoor environments with thoughtful and highly practical features.

Standard-fit items include corner steps, giving easy access to the illuminated load bed.

Optional features include:

Along with divider-forming capabilities for the bed, the Kia Tasman offers optional bedside flexibility, with a mini table for items such as a Bluetooth speaker or cup, making it ideal for work and camping activities.

Inside, the folding console table adds further versatility to the Kia Tasman, allowing it to transition from a work vehicle to a mobile business space. This gives users the opportunity to use their laptop for work or relaxation.

The Kia Tasman’s load bed is:

Advanced Technology – Play Everywhere 

Ensuring that every element of the Kia Tasman’s chassis and suspension has been developed to soak up punishment across harsh off-road terrain also delivers excellent benefits for on-road driving.

Predictable, engaging handling and comfortable ride ensure that the Kia Tasman is a pickup that can be enjoyed to the full during.

Even on long highway journeys, features such as enhanced sound-deadening materials, additional wind-sealing strips and advanced noise extractor technology provide a hushed, vibration-free cabin ambience not typically available in the pickup truck sector.

Tasman ADAS

Kia Tasman users can also benefit from the latest technology to help keep them safe on every journey.

Not only do the pickup’s Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) offer features such as:

This function enables the specification of the trailer to be incorporated into the pickup’s ADAS, which then automatically optimises driving characteristics accordingly.

World Premiere

The Kia Tasman has undergone 1,777 specific tests conducted over more than 18,000 rounds of evaluation. These tests took place across a range of environments and covered everything from off-road ability to wading, all-terrain durability to towing, and on-track performance to ride and handling.

Proven to the highest standards around the world, the Kia Tasman now makes its global debut in the heat of the Middle East at the Jeddah Motor Show, while being unveiled simultaneously online.

The models displayed at the Jeddah Motor Show include the Baseline Double Cab, X-Line Double Cab, X-Pro Double Cab and X-Pro Double Cab Customised.

The Kia Tasman will initially launch in the Korean domestic market during the first half of 2025 before subsequently being introduced in Australia, Africa and the Middle East, with Saudia Arabia expected to be a particularly strong market.

Accessories will be grouped into packages, and availability may vary by region.

Kia Tasman Ute update – unveils unique camouflage 24 April 2024

Kia has revealed an Australia-inspired camouflage wrap for the Kia Tasman, the brand’s highly anticipated new ute. Developed in collaboration with renowned artist Richard Boyd-Dunlop hailing from Australia and New Zealand, the unique wrap – themed around ‘The Path Never Taken’ – underscores the Tasman’s adventurous spirit.

Influenced by the untamed beauty of Australia’s diverse landscapes, the unique graphics visualise a journey of inspiration encountered while driving along the coast and across the outback. The exterior wrap’s eye-catching design draws on Boyd-Dunlop’s adventures, hitching rides across Australia.

“Our Tasman pickup truck embodies Kia’s commitment to design and innovation, as well as its spirit of adventure. Artist Richard Boyd-Dunlop crafted an exclusive camouflage design, with the support of the Kia design team, that depicts a journey and reflects an essence of adventure that is unique to the Tasman,” commented Karim Habib, Executive Vice President and Head of Kia Global Design.

concept of ‘The Path Never Taken’

The concept of ‘The Path Never Taken’ embodies the adventurous spirit of the Kia Tasman, which will inspire customers to embark on journeys filled with discovery and adventure in a vehicle that prioritises reliability and performance.

“This design resonates as it evokes my own personal experiences travelling across Australia and the encounters that I had,” said Boyd-Dunlop. “These experiences are influential to my work, and the Tasman enabled me to create a continuation of this, depicting the connection, joy, and sheer sense of adventure that is inherent to Australian culture.”

Known for his unique artistic style and ability to blend various media to create visually bold and powerful collaborations, Boyd-Dunlop captures elements of land and sea with his exclusive design for the Kia Tasman camouflage wrap. The finish combines the fiery hues of the outback with commanding blues that pay homage to Australia’s influential surf culture.

Scheduled to make its debut in 2025, the Tasman marks Kia’s inaugural entry into the Light Commercial Vehicle arena with a phased rollout across key markets including Korea, Australia, Africa, and the Middle East.

Kia has produced a short video showcasing the intricate details and design inspiration behind the Tasman’s camouflage concept in celebration of the camouflage design unveiling.

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