Kia Launches Tasman: The Brand’s First Pickup Arrives to Compete with Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux

Kia launches Tasman: the brand’s first pickup arrives to compete with Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux (Instagram @kia.worldwide)

Kia has launched its first pickup, the Tasman, aimed at competing with models like the Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux in markets such as South Korea, Australia, the Middle East, and Africa.

The vehicle is available in single-cab, double-cab, and chassis-cab versions, allowing for customizations to suit various needs. The bold design includes vertical headlights, a robust hood, and a large Kia logo on the tailgate.

The Tasman is built on a body-on-frame chassis and offers two- or four-wheel drive options, with gasoline and diesel engines varying by market, highlighting its toughness and versatility.

Inside, the cabin is more refined, featuring a dashboard with three screens, including two 12.3-inch displays and one 5-inch display. Despite the advanced technology, Kia retained traditional buttons for easy access to key functions.

Kia launches Tasman: the brand’s first pickup arrives to compete with Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux (Instagram @kia.worldwide)

The pickup includes off-road features such as a locking differential and specific driving modes, and its intelligent design provides extra space for occupants, with hidden compartments under the rear seats.

Among the innovations are dual wireless chargers, a Harman Kardon sound system, and various optional accessories to enhance functionality, such as a tonneau cover with butterfly doors and a sliding bed cover.

Kia plans to launch sales of the Tasman in Korea in 2025, followed by other strategic markets, with a debut at the Jeddah International Motor Show in Saudi Arabia.

The brand also announced plans for an electric pickup by 2027, which may include an electric version of the Tasman for markets outside the U.S. To compete in the U.S., production would need to be domestic to avoid high import tariffs, suggesting possible manufacturing at its Georgia plant should Kia decide to expand into this market.

Source: Motor1.com | Photo: Instagram @kia.worldwide | This content was created with AI assistance and reviewed by the editorial team