Kia’s Tasman pickup enters global markets with powerful towing, off-road features, and a rugged build
Kia has introduced its first-ever pickup truck, the Kia Tasman, designed to meet the demands of utility and off-road performance. This full-size pickup aims to deliver on durability and versatility with a body-on-frame build, multiple powertrain choices, and the ability to tackle heavy-duty tasks, making it a strong competitor in the pickup truck category.
The Tasman is built on a rugged frame and equipped with a live rear axle, giving it serious towing and hauling abilities. The truck can tow up to 7716 pounds, while rear-drive models carry a max payload of 2635 pounds. Kia has also outfitted the Tasman with a water-fording capacity of 32 inches, making it suitable for rough environments.
Three trims are available for the Tasman: Baseline, X-Line, and X-Pro. The entry-level Baseline offers rear-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available as an option. The higher trims come with all-wheel drive as standard. Drivers can choose between a gas-powered 2.5-liter engine that provides 277 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque or a 2.2-liter diesel engine delivering 207 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque. The gasoline engine comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission, while the diesel has options for both an automatic and a six-speed manual gearbox.
Inside, the Tasman provides a driver-focused dashboard with a dual 12.3-inch screen setup for the gauge cluster and infotainment. Kia has integrated familiar features, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with dual wireless charging pads. The cabin’s layout resembles other Kia models, featuring both physical and touch-sensitive controls and a column-mounted gear selector. Extra utility is provided with a multi-functional center console that converts into a work surface, a feature inspired by Ford’s F-150.
For added convenience, rear seats recline and offer storage space underneath, adding practical use for tools and smaller items. The X-Pro trim, built for off-road challenges, is outfitted with all-terrain tires, 17-inch wheels, and an electronically locking rear differential, along with a ground clearance of 9.5 inches.
Kia offers a selection of accessories to customize the Tasman for different uses. Options include beadlock-style wheels, side steps, and several bed add-ons like a canopy, ladder rack, and rooftop tent setup. A chassis-cab configuration allows for commercial modifications, further enhancing its versatility.
With the Tasman, Kia marks a significant entry into the pickup truck space, showcasing off-road capability and utility-focused features. From heavy-duty towing to customization options, the Tasman brings together Kia’s experience in design and functionality into a truck fit for both work and adventure.
Heavy-Duty Specs for Real-World Performance
The Tasman is built on a rugged frame and equipped with a live rear axle, giving it serious towing and hauling abilities. The truck can tow up to 7716 pounds, while rear-drive models carry a max payload of 2635 pounds. Kia has also outfitted the Tasman with a water-fording capacity of 32 inches, making it suitable for rough environments.
Three trims are available for the Tasman: Baseline, X-Line, and X-Pro. The entry-level Baseline offers rear-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available as an option. The higher trims come with all-wheel drive as standard. Drivers can choose between a gas-powered 2.5-liter engine that provides 277 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque or a 2.2-liter diesel engine delivering 207 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque. The gasoline engine comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission, while the diesel has options for both an automatic and a six-speed manual gearbox.
Interior Highlights & Convenience Features
Inside, the Tasman provides a driver-focused dashboard with a dual 12.3-inch screen setup for the gauge cluster and infotainment. Kia has integrated familiar features, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with dual wireless charging pads. The cabin’s layout resembles other Kia models, featuring both physical and touch-sensitive controls and a column-mounted gear selector. Extra utility is provided with a multi-functional center console that converts into a work surface, a feature inspired by Ford’s F-150.
For added convenience, rear seats recline and offer storage space underneath, adding practical use for tools and smaller items. The X-Pro trim, built for off-road challenges, is outfitted with all-terrain tires, 17-inch wheels, and an electronically locking rear differential, along with a ground clearance of 9.5 inches.
Accessories & Customization Options
Kia offers a selection of accessories to customize the Tasman for different uses. Options include beadlock-style wheels, side steps, and several bed add-ons like a canopy, ladder rack, and rooftop tent setup. A chassis-cab configuration allows for commercial modifications, further enhancing its versatility.
A Versatile Pickup with a Global Vision
With the Tasman, Kia marks a significant entry into the pickup truck space, showcasing off-road capability and utility-focused features. From heavy-duty towing to customization options, the Tasman brings together Kia’s experience in design and functionality into a truck fit for both work and adventure.
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