Kia has long been known for its stylish, value-packed sedans and SUVs, but in 2025, it is setting foot in uncharted territory with a product that could redefine the midsize pickup truck category — the Kia Tasman. Named after the rugged Tasman Sea, this upcoming truck promises to blend Kia’s signature design, technology, and comfort with the power and utility that truck buyers demand.
Set to rival big names like the Ford Ranger, Toyota Hilux, and Isuzu D-Max, the Kia Tasman could be the brand’s game-changer in global markets like Australia, South Korea, and potentially India. Let’s explore everything we know so far about this upcoming beast — from design and engine specs to features, market positioning, and expected launch dates.
Table of Contents
1. Kia’s First-Ever Pickup Truck
The Kia Tasman is a big move for the South Korean automaker. While its cousin Hyundai already made waves with the unibody Santa Cruz in North America, Kia is going the traditional route — building the Tasman on a ladder-frame chassis, perfect for those who want durability, off-road capability, and towing strength.
Kia’s entry into this space comes after years of speculation and growing global demand for midsize pickups. According to industry insiders, the Tasman is being developed in Australia, a market known for its tough truck competition, which indicates just how serious Kia is about getting this truck right.
2. Exterior Design – Rugged with Kia’s Flair
Spy shots and early renderings suggest that the Kia Tasman will combine ruggedness with Kia’s modern design language. Expect a bold front fascia, possibly with Kia’s signature ‘Tiger Nose’ grille, flanked by aggressive LED headlamps. The stance is wide and muscular, with strong character lines and flared wheel arches that give it a tough, go-anywhere presence.
Key exterior highlights could include:
- High ground clearance
- LED DRLs
- 18- or 20-inch alloy wheels
- Roof rails and sports bars
- Optional snorkel and off-road kit for rugged variants
Its design is expected to appeal to both urban adventurers and serious off-roaders alike.
3. Engine and Performance Options
While official details are still under wraps, various reports indicate that the Kia Tasman will offer multiple powertrains to suit different markets and preferences. Here’s what we know so far:
Likely Engine Options:
- 2.2L CRDi Diesel Engine (same as the Kia Sorento)
Power: ~200 hp
Torque: ~440 Nm - 2.5L Turbocharged Petrol Engine
Power: ~280 hp
Torque: ~420 Nm - 3.0L V6 Diesel (possible for premium or off-road trims)
Power: ~250+ hp
Torque: ~500+ Nm
Transmission Options:
- 6-speed manual
- 8-speed automatic (torque converter)
- Selectable 4WD system with low-range gear and locking differential
The Kia Tasman is expected to be a proper workhorse, capable of towing up to 3,500 kg, and offering a payload capacity of around 1 ton. Off-road versions may include advanced terrain management systems, hill descent control, and skid plates.
4. Interior Comfort and Tech
Kia is known for packing in lots of tech and comfort, even in its most affordable vehicles. The Tasman is expected to follow suit, offering a cabin that’s both functional and upscale.
Expected Interior Features:
- 10.25-inch or 12.3-inch infotainment screen with Kia Connect
- Fully digital instrument cluster
- Dual-zone climate control
- Ventilated and heated seats
- Premium leather upholstery (on higher trims)
- Rear AC vents
- Wireless charging
- 360-degree camera
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
The cabin is likely to be offered in both 5-seater and extended cab layouts, with rear bench seats that fold up for cargo space.
5. Safety Features
Kia has consistently earned high safety ratings for its vehicles, and the Kia Tasman is expected to come loaded with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), especially in global markets like Australia and Europe.
Safety Tech (Expected):
- 6 to 8 airbags
- Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
- Lane Keep Assist
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Trailer Sway Control
- Roll Stability Control
All these features will not only enhance everyday driving safety but also make the Tasman a reliable option for families and adventurers alike.
6. Expected Variants and Trims
Although not officially confirmed, the Kia Tasman is likely to be offered in multiple variants to cater to different buyer personas — from commercial users to lifestyle enthusiasts.
Possible Trim Levels:
- Tasman Base – Steel wheels, minimal features, manual gearbox – ideal for fleet/commercial use.
- Tasman Mid – Alloy wheels, touchscreen, dual airbags, cruise control.
- Tasman GT Line – Sportier look, automatic transmission, full ADAS suite.
- Tasman Off-Road Edition – All-terrain tires, snorkel, raised suspension, 4×4 standard.
- Tasman X-Line or Wild Edition – Premium off-roader with all bells and whistles.
7. Kia Tasman Price Expectation
Pricing will vary depending on the market and variant, but here’s an estimated price range for global markets:
- Australia: Expected to be priced between AUD 45,000 and AUD 75,000.
- South Korea: Likely to cost around KRW 40 million to 60 million.
- India (if launched): Estimated price could range from ₹28 lakh to ₹38 lakh (ex-showroom).
- Europe (select markets): Expected to be between €40,000 and €60,000.
The Kia Tasman will likely undercut some of its established rivals on price, while offering better equipment and a more refined interior.
8. Rivals and Market Positioning
Kia’s new pickup will directly compete with:
- Toyota Hilux
- Ford Ranger
- Isuzu D-Max
- Volkswagen Amarok
- Mitsubishi Triton
Unlike the Santa Cruz (which is urban-focused), the Kia Tasman is a full-blooded ladder-frame truck meant for heavy-duty use. It might give established players a run for their money by offering better tech, refined engines, and lower cost of ownership.
9. Global Availability and Launch Date
Kia has confirmed that the Tasman will launch in 2025, with production reportedly beginning in the second half of the year. The initial launch is expected in Australia and South Korea, followed by a global rollout.
Key Launch Timeline:
- Unveil/Prototype: Late 2024
- Production Start: Mid-2025
- Australian Launch: Q3 2025
- Other Global Markets: Late 2025 to Early 2026
India has not yet been officially confirmed, but given the rising popularity of lifestyle pickups (like Isuzu D-Max V-Cross), a launch could be on the cards.
10. Why the Kia Tasman Matters
Kia’s entry into the pickup segment isn’t just about selling another utility vehicle. It represents a bold strategic expansion — especially for markets like Australia, Africa, and Latin America, where rugged pickups dominate sales charts.
With growing demand for lifestyle vehicles, overlanding, and outdoor adventure, the Kia Tasman could appeal to a wide range of users — from business owners and fleet buyers to families and weekend warriors.
Conclusion: Should You Wait for the Kia Tasman?
If you’re in the market for a rugged yet refined pickup that doesn’t skimp on comfort or tech, the Kia Tasman should definitely be on your radar. Its tough build, refined engine options, feature-rich cabin, and competitive pricing could make it a strong contender in a crowded segment.
Kia’s proven success with SUVs like the Seltos, Sonet, and Telluride means there’s good reason to be optimistic about the Tasman. It’s not just another truck — it’s Kia’s declaration that it’s ready to compete with the best in every segment.
