Kia has surprised everyone by showcasing its first global pickup, the Tasman, at the 2024 Busan Motor Show in South Korea. While the truck won’t be available for purchase until later in 2025, Kia has given us a sneak peek at what to expect from this mid-size contender.
The Tasman is presented in a vibrant livery designed by artist Richard Boyd-Dunlop, drawing attention to its unique features. The truck sports plastic cladding around square wheel arches, vertical headlights, tow hooks, disc brakes on all corners, and 17-inch wheels wrapped in BF Goodrich All-Terrain T/A tires. Despite the absence of calipers and suspension components, the design is finalized, showcasing tiny cameras below the side mirrors for blind-spot monitoring.
The rear bumper of the Tasman features integrated steps for easy access to the bed, which appears to be of decent size. The rear end boasts small taillights and a split tailgate, while the windows are tinted to conceal the interior. However, a video published on TikTok has already revealed the cabin weeks before the official debut.
While Kia has not disclosed details about the engines, reports suggest a 2.2-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder engine will be available in both 4×2 and 4×4 configurations with an eight-speed automatic transmission. There is speculation about the potential inclusion of a V-6 engine to compete with rivals like the Volkswagen Amarok and Toyota Hilux.
In terms of capabilities, the Tasman is expected to offer a payload capacity of around 2,200 pounds and towing capacity of up to 7,700 pounds. Moreover, an all-electric variant is rumored to be in development for a launch in late 2026. While the Tasman will not be Kia’s only body-on-frame vehicle, alongside the Mohave/Borrego, its future remains uncertain.
The Tasman is positioned as a mid-size truck larger than the Ford Ranger but smaller than the F-150. Kia has initially showcased the dual cab body style, but there are hints of a single cab and chassis cab models in the pipeline.
Although the Tasman has been spotted testing in the United States, it is unclear whether it will be available in the market. However, a separate fully electric pickup from Kia has also been captured testing in the US, hinting at the brand’s commitment to expanding its lineup with innovative offerings. The world of technology is constantly evolving, with new innovations and advancements being made every day. From smartphones to self-driving cars, there seems to be no limit to what technology can achieve. One of the latest developments in the tech world is the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning.
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