SEOUL/JEDDAH: Kia has introduced the Tasman, its first-ever pickup truck, marking a new addition to its lineup that spans sedans, SUVs, commercial vehicles and electric vehicles.
Designed to blend work and lifestyle features, the Tasman is aimed at consumers who seek a versatile vehicle for both off-road adventures and practical daily use.
The Tasman, equipped with Kia's latest technology and a spacious, comfortable cabin, features a balance between performance and convenience.
It incorporates features from Kia’s legacy SUV line, particularly the off-road-capable Mohave, ensuring strong adaptability across diverse terrains. The model promises class-leading comfort and progressive design, setting the foundation for Kia’s future pickups.
The Tasman is equipped with a 2.2-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine, delivering 154 kW/206hp and 441Nm of torque to all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission.
It is also available as a 2.5-litre turbocharged petrol four-cylinder engine producing around 277 hp and 421Nm of torque.
Kia has indicated the Tasman could get hybrid and electric powertrains in the future.
Kia's president and CEO, Ho Sung Song, stated that the Tasman was developed from the ground up to cater to growing demand for lifestyle-oriented pickups, distinguishing itself from competitors by offering innovative capabilities tailored to a range of activities.
The Tasman is targeted at both leisure enthusiasts and small business owners, like tradespeople and farmers, who require a versatile, high-performance vehicle.
It will go on sale in South Korea in the first half of 2025 and will also be sold in the US, Australia, Africa and the Middle East.
