Kia Sets 2025 Debut for Tasman Pickup Truck with Confirmed Details

Apr 11, 2024 04:57 AM EDT

GRAY KIA EV9 — (Photo : PEXELS/HYUNDAI MOTOR GROUP)

Kia has officially confirmed the name of its new mid-size pickup truck, which will be called the Tasman. A new TV commercial published on YouTube today has unveiled the Tasman name to the public, along with an official arrival date of 2025. Kia intends to debut its first-ever pickup model in 2025, utilizing a phased global launch strategy.

2025 Kia Tasman Coming Soon

According to CarScoops, the 2025 Kia Tasman is anticipated to be available for purchase in Australia, New Zealand, Korea, and certain Asian markets. Its accessibility in the US is still unknown, though. This is expected to include at least one diesel engine option, which would let it to compete with popular cars like the Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux.

The Korean company reveals that 'Tasman' was initially proposed by Kia Australia and chosen from a range of names gathered from diverse global markets. It emphasizes that the Tasman has been meticulously designed to accommodate a range of work, trade, and leisure activities, with a scheduled launch slated for 2025.

It remains uncertain whether the Kia Tasman will be available for purchase in the United States. However, unless the brand opts for local production to sidestep the so-called Chicken Tax-a 25 percent tariff on foreign-made trucks-it seems improbable.

Other Features, Engine

As stated by WhichCar? official Tasman ute details have not been released by Kia. But just like its name, most people are aware with the specifics of the powertrain. An eight-speed automated transmission and a 2.2-liter turbodiesel engine are anticipated to power it. This 2.2L "Smartstream" engine, which produces 148 kW/440 Nm, is the same one that powers the Hyundai Santa Fe, Hyundai Palisade, and Kia Sorento.

Another potential engine option for the Kia Tasman is the 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder turbo diesel currently utilized in the Genesis GV80 SUV. In the Genesis, this large six-cylinder engine generates 204 kW/588 Nm of torque, providing the Tasman with a formidable competitor against V6-powered variants of the Ford Ranger and Volkswagen Amarok.

However, this engine might be considered too costly for the Tasman, or Hyundai/Kia could opt to reserve it for their premium brands, as the GV80 is presently the sole model featuring this diesel powertrain.

The 2025 Kia Tasman ute edges closer to its full unveiling with a new video officially confirming its name. Kia initiates its teaser campaign by featuring a star-studded cast to announce the Tasman ute's arrival, emphasizing it's "set for Australia." Expressions of interest are now open on Kia's consumer website, building anticipation for its release.

With single and dual-cab options, the 2025 Kia Tasman will provide consumers flexibility by giving them the choice of a pick-up tray or cab-chassis. Because of its adaptability, the Tasman can satisfy a wide range of requirements and tastes, which increases its attractiveness in the mid-size pickup truck market.

According to Economic Times, the Kia Tasman marks the brand's confident debut into the global C-segment pickup truck market. Kia sees the Tasman as a lifestyle pickup that goes beyond a workhorse, redefining its function as an adaptable partner for active, round-the-clock lives. The business highlights that the Tasman will accommodate a variety of adventurous and personal leisure activities, which is in line with its dedication to design that is focused on the needs of the consumer and innovation.