Kia’s highly anticipated ute, the Tasman, is gearing up for its debut with a notable powertrain offering, according to reports from abroad. The Kia Tasman is expected to hit the market featuring a turbo-diesel 2.2-liter four-cylinder engine, a familiar powerplant also found in Kia models like the Sorento.
This engine configuration is projected to deliver 148kW of power, offering a competitive performance level. However, it falls slightly short in torque compared to rival models such as the Toyota Hilux and the Ford Ranger, which boast higher outputs from their respective engines.
While initial reports suggest a hybrid variant will follow suit, there’s no mention of a six-cylinder option to rival competitors like the Ranger and Amarok, despite Kia’s existing lineup featuring a Euro 6-compliant 3.0-liter turbo-diesel V6.
The Tasman is slated for an annual production volume of 120,000 to 130,000 units, with plans for distribution in key markets including North America, Europe, and Australia.
Although the mention of North America is noteworthy, considering the existing tariffs on imported light commercial vehicles.
In Australia, Kia aims to capture a significant share of the light commercial vehicle market, targeting a segment currently dominated by the Isuzu D-Max. The Tasman is scheduled for a 2025 launch in the country.
Spotted prototypes reveal key features of the Tasman, including a live rear axle, coil spring suspension, rear disc brakes, and a four-wheel-drive system with selectable low-range gearing. Kia has positioned the Tasman to compete directly with top-selling utes, boasting a braked towing capacity of 3500kg and a rear bumper design with integrated side steps.
While the possibility of a high-performance variant akin to the Ranger Raptor remains uncertain, Kia has expressed its ambition to explore new segments within the ute category, aligning with its ongoing commitment to innovation and market competitiveness.