Kia has announced the Kia Tasman, the company’s first-ever ute, at the Jeddah International Motor Show. This model marks Kia’s entry into the utility vehicle segment, expanding its product range beyond SUVs and passenger vehicles.

The Tasman - set to go head-to-head in sales with the Ford Ranger, Toyota HiLux and Isuzu D-Max - will be Kia's first foray into the mid-sized truck segment.

The Tasman is set to launch first in Korea in early 2025, followed by key markets including Australia, the Middle East, and Africa. With both commercial and recreational configurations, Kia aims to position the Tasman as a versatile option for a range of uses.

Design Priorities: Simple and Practical

The Kia Tasman presents a straightforward design, focusing on functionality over styling trends. At the front, it features Kia’s recognisable Tiger Face grille, flanked by vertically aligned headlights. The rear includes a stamped tailgate logo, with integrated lighting elements and a high-mounted stop-lamp.

Buyers will have the choice of nine colour options, including Tan Beige and Denim Blue, and a range of 17-inch and 18-inch wheels depending on the selected trim.

Customisation options include Single Decker, Double Decker, and Sports Bar configurations, which offer varied solutions for outdoor activities or professional work.

The load bed design provides access through optional butterfly doors and sliding tonneau covers, with additional functionality provided by roof racks for rooftop tents or equipment.

Interior: Aiming for Comfort and Utility

Inside, the Tasman offers a cabin designed to balance utility with convenience. It includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration as standard, with an optional Harman Kardon sound system.

A 12.3-inch panoramic display, combined with physical buttons, provides access to vehicle settings and entertainment controls. Practical features include dual wireless charging pads and 33 litres of under-seat storage.

The interior materials incorporate bio-plastics and recycled PET fabric, reflecting Kia’s stated commitment to sustainability.

Buyers can choose from several trim combinations, such as Onyx Black/Medium Grey or Deep Green/Terracotta Brown.

The Tasman also offers rear seats with adjustable recline and class-competitive headroom and legroom, catering to passengers on longer journeys.

Engine Options and Performance

The Tasman will be offered with two engine options, depending on the region. The Australian market will receive a 2.2-litre diesel engine, producing 154kW and 441Nm of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Kia states that this configuration can accelerate from 0-100km/h in 10.4 seconds, with a top speed of 185km/h. In other markets, including Korea and the Middle East, a 2.5-litre petrol engine will be available, generating 207kW and 421Nm of torque, with a 0-100km/h time of 8.5 seconds.

The Tasman will be available in both 2WD and AWD configurations, with AWD models offering driving modes for Sand, Mud, and Snow conditions. The X-Pro variant adds Rock mode for enhanced off-road capability, while a body-on-frame platform supports towing and load-carrying needs.

Off-Road Capabilities and Practical Features

The Tasman’s 252mm ground clearance (on the X-Pro) and air intake system positioned inside the fender are intended to help it handle varied terrain. Kia reports the ute is capable of wading through 800mm of water at low speeds.

To assist with traction, the Tasman offers a rear Electronic Locking Differential (e-LD), available on AWD variants, along with X-Trek low-speed driving mode to maintain a consistent pace off-road.

Additional features, such as the Ground View Monitor (GVM), provide drivers with a view of the terrain directly beneath the vehicle via the infotainment screen. This feature is intended to assist with tight manoeuvres on uneven ground.

Towing, Payload, and Bed Design

The load bed of the Tasman measures 1,512mm long and 1,572mm wide, offering a total capacity of 1,173 litres. Kia has indicated that the ute can carry up to 1,195kg in 2WD mode and tow up to 3,500kg.

The corner steps provide easier access to the bed, while an optional 240V power outlet can power equipment or electronics. Other optional features include a sliding cargo floor and mini table designed to support both work and leisure activities.

Safety and Driver Assistance Technology

The Tasman includes a range of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), such as lane-keeping assist, blind spot collision warning, and Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA2).

Kia’s trailer profile functionality allows the ADAS system to adapt driving performance based on the dimensions and weight of an attached trailer. Other features include remote parking assist, which helps the driver manoeuvre the vehicle into tight parking spaces.

Kia Tasman Features and Specifications by Grade

Base Model (Double Cab)

• Ground Clearance: 224mm
• Tyres: 17-18 inch highway tyres
• Drivetrain: 2WD with optional AWD
• Engine Options:
  • 2.2-litre diesel, 154kW + 441Nm
  • 2.5-litre petrol, 207kW + 421Nm (depending on region)
• Payload: Up to 1,195kg (2WD)
• Towing Capacity: 3,500kg
• Interior Features: Panoramic display (12.3" + 5" + 12.3"), Apple CarPlay, Android Auto
• ADAS: Lane-keeping assist, blind spot warning, trailer profile functionality

X-Line (Double Cab)

• Ground Clearance: 224mm
• Tyres: 18-inch highway tyres
• AWD with Terrain Modes: Sand, Mud, Snow
• Additional Features:
  • Downhill Brake Control (DBC)
  • Digital Key 2.0 support
  • Harman Kardon premium audio system (optional)
• Safety Systems: Highway Driving Assist 2, remote parking assist

X-Pro (Double Cab)

• Ground Clearance: 252mm
• Tyres: 17-inch all-terrain tyres
• AWD with Terrain Modes: Sand, Mud, Snow, Rock
• Off-Road Features:
  • X-Trek mode (low-speed off-road driving)
  • Electronic Locking Differential (e-LD)
  • Ground View Monitor (GVM)
• Specialised Controls: Trailer brake controller (TBC), 4WD mode switch (2H/4A/4H/4L)
• Bed Features: Illuminated load bed with corner steps, 240V power outlet
• Interior Comfort: Reclining rear seats, dual wireless charging, folding console table