Kia is making a bold entrance into the pickup truck market with the reveal of the 2026 Kia Tasman, marking its first foray into this segment. This new model is set to launch in markets like Korea, Australia, Africa, and the Middle East, though there are currently no plans for a U.S. release. With unique design cues that set it apart from any other Kia model, the Tasman combines elements of ruggedness with Kia’s design language, featuring a length of 213 inches—slightly shorter than the Jeep Gladiator—and a 128.7-inch wheelbase, about 10 inches longer than the Hyundai Santa Cruz. This truck will undoubtedly bring something new to the Kia lineup.
Built to handle tough terrain, the Tasman uses body-on-frame construction, giving it a strong foundation for off-road capability and towing power. It boasts a towing capacity of 7,716 pounds, matching that of the Jeep Gladiator, and a max payload rating of 2,635 pounds in the rear-wheel-drive variant. Unlike its smaller cousin, the Hyundai Santa Cruz, which has a unibody construction, the Tasman is designed with more traditional truck mechanics, including an independent front suspension and a leaf-sprung solid rear axle in the back, making it a serious contender for heavy-duty tasks.
The Tasman offers three trim levels: Baseline, X-Line, and the off-road-oriented X-Pro. Powertrain options vary depending on the market, with choices between a 2.5-liter gas engine providing 277 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque and a 2.2-liter diesel engine delivering 207 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque. The gasoline engine pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission, while the diesel has options for both an automatic and a six-speed manual. The Tasman’s trims offer flexibility in drivetrain configurations as well, with the base model available in rear-wheel drive, while the X-Line and X-Pro come with standard all-wheel drive.
Inside, the Tasman features a modern, tech-rich cabin similar to Kia’s other models, complete with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and infotainment touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Practical additions include dual wireless charging pads and an eight-speaker Harman/Kardon stereo. Its cabin layout is equipped with a column-mounted gear selector and a mix of physical and touch-sensitive controls, while the center console provides ample storage space, including a cover that can fold into a makeshift table. For added versatility, the crew cab’s rear seats can recline, and there’s extra storage space beneath them.
For off-road enthusiasts, the Tasman X-Pro trim is designed for rough terrains, sporting all-terrain tires, an electronically locking rear differential, unique drive modes, and a 1.1-inch suspension lift, offering 9.5 inches of ground clearance and the ability to ford up to 32 inches of water. Kia is offering various accessories to enhance utility, from beadlock-style wheels and side steps to a ladder rack and a sports bar. The truck can even be configured as a chassis cab for commercial use, showing Kia’s intent to make the Tasman a highly versatile, globally appealing pickup truck that could, someday, make its way to the U.S. market.
