Kia's All-New Tasman to Take on Hilux and Ranger

In a bold move that’s set to shake up the ute market, Kia has officially unveiled the Tasman, a vehicle purpose-built for the unique demands of Australian drivers. Whether it’s for tradies on a worksite, burly twinks hitting the coast, or hairy-chested off-road enthusiasts blazing through the bush, Tasman should appeal with its rugged toughness, smart tech, and sharp design. Breaking away from the norm, Kia’s first ute speaks to Australians who have taken to utes in a huge way.

Built for the Brown Australian Landscape

Kia has spent years mastering off-roading with models like the Sorento and the Mohave, so it’s no surprise that the Tasman was made with Australia’s challenging terrain in mind. Tested in deserts and on winding mountain trails, this ute has been pushed to its limits to ensure it’s up for any adventure. Australian models come with a 2.2-litre diesel engine producing 210 horsepower and 441Nm of torque which is about par for the course. The Tasman is equipped with a robust AWD system, an 8-speed automatic with multiple drive modes to adapt to gravel, snow, mud, and even rocky surfaces.

One standout feature is its ability to wade through 800mm of water, making it a worthy companion for creek crossings and unexpected floods. Kia’s signature Ground View Monitor (GVM) is handy on or off-road.

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ABOVE: Kia Tasman

Design & Durability

The Tasman isn’t just about performance; it’s also a head-turner, in one way or another. Its bold, utilitarian aesthetic won’t appeal to all, but the Tonka Truck look is certainly a statement. Kia’s iconic Tiger Face grille is flanked by vertically stacked LED lights that follow the latest KIA design fashion. The ute’s design is clean and chunky, yet the solid lines have a commanding attitude. Available in nine colours like Runway Red, Denim Blue, and a rugged yet unimaginative black, the Tasman’s looks are as flexible as its owners.

Kia has ensured the Tasman is designed with practicality in mind. Instead of over-the-top design flourishes, Kia has considered function with corner steps for easier tray access, a sliding cargo floor, and a 12V power outlet in the tray. Kia offers a variety of bed configurations, accessories, and cargo solutions, making the Tasman as customisable as budget allows.

The Tasman Cabin:

Inside, the Tasman goes beyond basic ute standards, with a spacious cabin of high-quality, eco-friendly materials made from recycled content. The attention to detail is impressive, from soft-touch surfaces to the strategically placed storage compartments that offer clever, hidden spaces for essentials. In the double-cab model, there’s Sufficient legroom for passengers even in the back, and those long road trips are made comfortable with seats that hold up to the brand’s SUV standards.

Tech-wise, Tasman offers dual wireless charging pads, and a full suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) including like lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and autonomous emergency braking. The 10.25-inch infotainment system includes Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, entertainment and navigation.

A Choice of Trims for Every Type of Driver

The Tasman will be available in multiple trims, catering for all budgets. Options like two-tone Espresso Brown or classic grey trim give the interior a lush feel, even in the base models. Kia has carefully balanced affordability with premium touches, ensuring that even the entry-level models feel comfortable and well-appointed.

For drivers who like to live on the edge, the top-end trims come with all the extras—larger wheels, upgraded interior finishes, and additional tech options to elevate the driving experience. Kia’s promise is a ute that can stand toe-to-toe with the best, but at a price that won’t break the bank.

A Ute that Adapts to Every Lifestyle

The Tasman is built for those who need their vehicle to keep up with a life in motion. Small business owners will appreciate the practical tray options and power outlets, while families and adventurers will love the Tasman’s versatility when hitting the beach, tackling muddy trails, or camping out under the stars. It’s the ultimate all-rounder, bridging the gap between a workhorse and a lifestyle vehicle.

By blending practicality with rugged style, Kia’s first ute is an ambitious entry into the market that’s likely to appeal to a wide range of Australians. With its tough, go-anywhere attitude, ample technology, and thoughtful interior design, the Tasman is Kia’s thrust into a market that is crammed with big hitters who are already established.

Final thoughts

VW only launched another Amarok with the help of Ford so merely being a ute does not ensure success, as Mercedes-Benz found out the hard way? Tasman will need to cash the cheques it writes and has a big hill to climb if it is to take on Ranger and Hilux in any meaningful way.