Kia unveiled their inaugural pickup truck last month, and it seems promising. Competing against Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux sales in Australia as well as other general markets with diesel powertrain options available.
Built to Australian standards, the vehicle is meant to meet family needs while remaining work-friendly. Equipped with four-wheel drive and capable of wading through up to 800mm of water depth, its construction ensures optimal performance and satisfaction for its driver and passengers alike.
Adaptability
Kia’s first entry into the pickup market, where it competes against established names like Toyota’s Hilux. Designed with utility in mind, the Tasman was developed specifically to meet both professional users and outdoor enthusiasts’ needs.
Kia’s Terra is powered by either a petrol or diesel engine and features selectable terrain modes for increased versatility. Its all-wheel drive system adjusts automatically for optimal traction while mountainous terrain can be tackled using rock mode on certain models of Terra. Kia’s frequency-sensitive dampening control and hydraulic rebound stop technology minimize vibration transference into the cabin for increased comfort and control when travelling over rough terrain.
Interior features are tailored towards functionality and simplicity, featuring clean symmetrical proportions for an appealing appearance. Large honeycomb-patterned air vents and multifunction steering wheels add practicality while dual-screen digital instrument and infotainment panels offer seamless driving experiences. Rear seats fold up revealing storage bins while thoughtfully integrated accessories help make this car an adaptable workhorse.
Power
Kia offers its Tasman with either petrol or diesel four-cylinder motors, both designed to meet Australian emissions regulations, coupled with either an eight-speed automatic transmission, full-time four-wheel drive system that can deliver power directly to either axle, and maximum braked towing capacity of 3500kg, with payload capacities reaching over one tonne.
Kia claims the Tasman has enough ground clearance to easily navigate Kruger National Park in South Africa or Death Valley here in America, should this become necessary.
If it ever makes it to America, Kia’s truck will be subject to a 25% “chicken tax” tariff which could add substantial cost to its MSRP if imported into the country. As it currently stands, though, only locations where Kia currently manufactures and sells its products such as its West Point plant producing Sorento, Sportage and Telluride SUVs at near capacity production rates will receive it.
Style
The Kia Tasman stands out from the big-bluff ute orthodoxy with its boxy SUV-like design that signals its departure from Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux by adopting an “honest form language” and rugged elements to convey strength, according to Kia’s head of global design in a media statement. Additionally, its upright cabin and tailgate stamped with Kia logo further strengthen its utilitarian nature.
Notable features of this vehicle include two 12.3-inch digital screens paired together to form a windscreen display and infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Its centre console boasts a fold-out work table while its rear bench offers best-in-class headroom and legroom for second row seating. Also standard are dual wishbone front suspension with rigid back axle; all-terrain tires; drive modes including mud, snow desert rock; depending on market availability single or double cab models may be offered; while four wheel drive comes as baseline models Baseline, X-Line or X-Pro models respectively.
Technology
Kia’s 2025 Tasman pickup truck is an unstoppable force despite its colourful camouflage. Built to meet both daily driving needs and off-road excursions, this robust machine features an unrivalled load box capacity (up to 1,173 liters) and payload capacity compared to rival models. Furthermore, its sturdy chassis includes double-wishbone front suspension along with frequency-sensitive damper control with hydraulic rebound stop technology to reduce vibrations for a smooth ride experience.
Tasman’s four-wheel drive system adapts to changing terrain, enabling it to switch seamlessly between Eco and Smart modes for efficient operation on urban roads or all terrain. In the X-Line and X-Pro models, additional drive modes such as Mud, Sand, Snow and Rock provide for more rugged conditions.
Kia has integrated advanced driver assistance features such as lane-keeping assist and blind spot warnings into its Tasman. Furthermore, its safety suite includes a trailer profile function which adjusts driving characteristics for stability when towing caravans.