After months of teasers and spy photos, Kia has officially announced the debut of its first-ever pickup truck, the Kia Tasman, on October 29 at the Jeddah International Motor Show in Saudi Arabia. Kia has teased this moment since April 2024, but the latest batch of images and videos finally reveals the Tasman in all its glory, showcasing its bold design as it powers through desert terrain. This rugged midsize pickup is ready to take on fierce competition in the global truck market.
Design & Features
The Tasman’s boxy lines, upright nose, and prominent fenders give it an aggressive, no-nonsense appearance. Vertically-stacked LEDs and a horn-shaped trim above the grille further emphasize its rugged design. The Tasman, shown in the teasers in a dual-cab setup, promises impressive ground clearance and off-road capability, borrowing heavily from Kia’s popular SUV, the Telluride. However, unlike the unibody platform of the Telluride, the Tasman will ride on a robust ladder-frame chassis, possibly shared with the Kia Mohave, ensuring durability for both on-road and off-road adventures.
Inside, the Tasman is set to be equally high-tech. Spy shots reveal a digital cockpit, sunroof, heated seats, and modern aluminum accents. Kia claims it will address “the drawbacks typical of existing pickup truck designs,” though specific details are still under wraps. From what we know, the Tasman will prioritize driver comfort and modern amenities, making it competitive in the midsize truck market.
Engine & Performance
Under the hood, the Tasman will feature a diesel powertrain. Kia has confirmed the inclusion of the 2.2-liter four-cylinder CRDi diesel engine, which produces 199 horsepower (149 kW / 202 PS) and 325 lb-ft (441 Nm) of torque. This engine is also found in the Hyundai Santa Fe and Kia Sorento. However, there’s speculation that Kia may offer a more powerful 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel option, although nothing has been confirmed yet. Kia is targeting a towing capacity of 3,500 kg (7,716 lbs) and a payload of 1,000 kg (2,204 lbs), which would place the Tasman among the top contenders in the midsize pickup segment.
Competition & Market Availability
The Tasman will face tough competition from established players like the Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger, Mitsubishi Triton, Isuzu D-Max, Mazda BT-50, and VW Amarok. Kia aims to deliver a truck capable of taking on these segment leaders in terms of both performance and versatility.
While the Tasman is confirmed for markets in Australia, New Zealand, Southeast Asia, Korea, Africa, and the Middle East, U.S. buyers shouldn’t hold their breath. The infamous 25% “Chicken Tax” on imported light trucks has long been a barrier for foreign automakers looking to introduce pickups to the U.S. market. Unless Kia decides to produce the Tasman domestically, it’s unlikely that the truck will make its way to American shores anytime soon.
Stay tuned for more updates as Kia’s debut of the Tasman approaches, and the brand continues to make waves in the competitive midsize truck segment.
