Kia Tasman

Let’s face it, most pickup trucks are either way too rugged for daily use or way too fancy for actual dirt. Enter the Kia Tasman, Kia’s brand-new truck that's here to finally bridge the gap between function and fun. Forget the age-old question, “Is it for work, or is it for play?” because the Tasman’s answer is “Yes.”

In case you’re wondering, why is Kia even in the pickup game? Well, the Tasman isn’t just “in the game”—it’s redefining it. Announced at the Jeddah International Motor Show, this truck is a clear message to the rest of the pickup world: Kia isn’t just dipping its toe in; it’s diving headfirst into an entirely new dimension. And they’re inviting you along.

Why You Need the Kia Tasman (Even if You Don’t Actually Need a Truck)

Imagine a vehicle with the soul of an SUV, the muscle of a truck, and the looks to make you stop and stare. That’s the Kia Tasman. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your driveway, no matter who you are:

• It’s Fashion Forward: No more giant, boxy trucks that look like they were designed by and for angry toddlers. The Tasman’s sleek, rugged design shuns the traditional “just stack more metal here” approach. It’s clean, purposeful, and with nine colors like Runway Red and Denim Blue, it’s not just a truck—it’s an accessory.

• Built for Everyone: Whether you’re a contractor or a weekend warrior, the Tasman has your back (and a massive 1,173-liter cargo capacity to carry everything else). It’s got an illuminated power outlet for when you’re on the go, a sliding cargo floor for when you’re unloading your gear, and even corner steps for easy access to everything you throw in the back.

• Loaded with Tech that Doesn’t Just Look Pretty: With a panoramic widescreen display (because trucks apparently need “panoramic” too), you can monitor, navigate, and rock out. The Harmon Kardon premium audio system might actually make your truck the best seat in the house for karaoke nights, and dual wireless charging pads ensure your devices stay charged. And yes, you can say goodbye to that endless search for aux cords.

Forget “Roughing It” - The Tasman’s Interior is Here to Pamper You

Step inside, and you’re not in your average work truck. With headroom, shoulder room, and legroom galore (940mm of legroom in the back alone!), this truck is as spacious as it is sophisticated. The interior is durable yet luxurious, featuring recycled materials because yes, even Kia knows we need to be kind to the planet.

The center console table folds so you can easily transition from hauling timber to having a mini mobile office. Add to that the hidden storage bins under the seats and best-in-segment reclining back seats, and you might start wondering if you even need your apartment anymore.

But Can it Do Real Truck Stuff? Absolutely.

Sure, comfort is great, but can the Tasman handle dirt, water, rocks, or other obstacles you could accidentally find yourself in? Yep, because it’s loaded with off-road-ready features:

• All-Terrain Options: With drive modes like Rock, Mud, and Sand, you’re more than prepared to tackle your weekend camping trips, even if you accidentally choose the worst route possible.

• 800mm Water Fording: That’s right. This thing can literally go underwater (or through a large puddle, depending on your adventurous spirit).

• Suspension So Good, You Might Forget You're Driving Over Rocks: The Tasman’s double wishbone suspension and Kia’s proprietary damper control mean it glides over rough terrain but also keeps your teeth from chattering on the highway. It’s like having a luxury sedan on the bottom and a bulldozer on the top.

Extra Goodies: Because What’s a Truck Without a Bit of Personalization?

Kia’s giving the Tasman a full wardrobe of customization options. Want to go full utility mode? There’s the Ladder Rack and Sports Roll Bar. Prefer a more civilized look? Opt for the Single Decker or Double Decker options, complete with a trunk and tonneau cover.

For those looking to impress on Instagram, there’s a roof rack for your rooftop tent, perfect for shots of #VanLife (just pretend it’s a van; no one will know). And for your workday or weekend convenience, side steps, beadlock-style wheels, and mini tables are all just waiting to be added to your cart.

And When Can You Buy One?

The Tasman’s global launch is set for 2025, starting in Korea and then expanding to places like Australia, Africa, and the Middle East. Yes, the wait might be tough, but look at it this way: That’s plenty of time to think about all the adventures you’ll take when it finally arrives.

The Final Verdict: Should You Consider a Kia Tasman?

If you’re in the market for a truck that can tackle all your work needs but still has the style and luxury to double as a weekend getaway machine, the Kia Tasman is it.

So whether you’re hauling lumber or just trying to look like you might, the Tasman is ready to turn heads, climb mountains, and redefine what a truck can be.

Here are all the key figures for the Kia Tasman:

• Cargo Capacity: 1,173 liters

• Rear Seat Legroom: 940 mm

• Ground Clearance (X-Pro model): 252 mm (28 mm higher than the base model)

• Headroom, Shoulder Room, Second-Row Legroom: Best-in-segment

• Water Fording Depth: 800 mm

• Power Outlet Rating:

  • Australia: 240 volts

  • Other Markets: 220 volts

• Bed Dimensions:

  • Length: 1,512 mm

  • Width: 1,572 mm (1,186 mm between the wheels)

  • Depth: 540 mm

• Payload Capacity: 1,195 kg (in 2WD mode)

• Towing Capacity: 3,500 kg

• Engine Options:

  • Korea: 2.5-liter petrol engine, 207 kW, 421 Nm torque

  • Australia: 2.2-liter diesel engine, 154 kW, 441 Nm torque

• Acceleration (0-100 km/h):

  • Korea (petrol): 8.5 seconds

  • Australia (diesel): 10.4 seconds

• Top Speed: 185 km/h

• Suspension Components: Double wishbone front, rigid axle with leaf springs at rear

• Available Colors: 9 options, including unique colors like Tan Beige and Denim Blue

• Trim Levels: Baseline, X-Line, X-Pro

• Interior Storage: 33 liters under rear seats

• Infotainment Screens: 12.3-inch + 5-inch + 12.3-inch panoramic widescreen

• Driving Modes:

  • Standard AWD: ECO, Smart, Sport (terrain options vary by market)

  • X-Pro Rock Mode: Exclusive to X-Pro model