July 7th 2024
Kia is taking a unique approach with its first global pickup, unlike the usual teasers from automakers before a debut. Set to hit markets in late 2025, the mid-size truck named Tasman is already turning heads at the 2024 Busan Motor Show in South Korea.
Rather than a full reveal, the vehicle sports a striking livery designed by artist Richard Boyd-Dunlop, intentionally showcasing exposed parts to emphasize the plastic cladding around the square wheel arches. Notable features include vertical headlights, tow hooks, all-around disc brakes, and 17-inch wheels fitted with six lug nuts, paired with robust BF Goodrich All-Terrain T/A tires.
Judging by its appearance, Kia didn’t showcase a near-production prototype. The lack of calipers suggests those brakes are not real. The completely covered underbody implies the truck lacked suspension parts. Nevertheless, the design is finalized, including the tiny cameras beneath the side mirrors for the blind spot system.
Blending in, the steps in the rear bumper corners offer access to what looks like a spacious bed. The taillights are relatively small compared to the wide rear, which seems to feature a split tailgate. Kia used dark window tint to hide the interior, though the cabin was revealed weeks ago in a TikTok video.
The Korean manufacturer is staying quiet on engine specifics, but reports suggest a 2.2-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder will be available in both 4×2 and 4×4 setups, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. There’s speculation about a potential V-6 option to compete more aggressively with rivals like the Volkswagen Amarok and Toyota Hilux.
Beyond off-road capabilities, the Tasman is expected to handle payloads up to 2,200 pounds and tow around 7,700 pounds. Plans for an all-electric version are in progress, aiming for a launch by late 2026. Kia’s lineup won’t be limited to just this truck, as the Mohave/Borrego remains in production, albeit possibly not for much longer.
In terms of dimensions, it’s rumored to be larger than a Ranger but smaller than an F-150. Kia has teased the Tasman primarily in a dual cab configuration, though a single cab and chassis cab variants might also be on the horizon.
While prototypes of the pickup have been spotted testing in the US, its availability for sale here remains uncertain. Interestingly, another entirely electric pickup has also been sighted in the US this year.
Source and Images: Motor1