You’ve probably heard by now that Kia is going to introduce a new ute, a pickup truck. A source, who has seen the current design stage and current development plans, has revealed lots of juicy details to us for an in-depth preview.
Our source we know, who prefers to remain anonymous, worked with Kia and has witnessed the new ute and seen the initial specification plans. These details could change as the development process continues, but here’s what we’ve been told so far.
A name hasn’t been officially confirmed yet, and neither has the vehicle’s existence, but rumours seem to suggest it might be called the Kia Tasman. A trademark is currently set against the name in Australia, registered under Kia Corporation.
We had these renderings drawn up by digital artist Josh Byrnes. The shape and the overall trim and proportions have been applied under guidance from our source, who says these images are “pretty accurate” to the real thing. Again, as of at the current stage of development.
At the front it goes for that tall, upright and boxy shape. This will help it stand out and ensure it is taken seriously in the world of heavy-duty workhorses. A big, rugged interpretation of the company’s ’tiger nose’ grille sits at the front supported by five separated bars.
Along the sides you might notice the unique trim ‘patches’ that run along the top of the wheel arch flares. These are apparently made to look like forged or ‘chopped’ carbon fibre for that sporty theme, however, it’s unclear if these will appear on all variants.
We’re told there will be a flagship model showcasing a similar character as rivals such as the Ford Ranger Wildtrak X and even the Raptor to some level, with exposed recovery points, black trimmings, special bumper bars, and more ground clearance on offer.
A base model is set to be presented as well, with normal wheels and features. According to our source, prices will start from around AU$50,000 for the entry dual-cab model.
Speaking of the lineup, it looks like there will be three main powertrain options. A 2.2-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder producing around 157kW and 420Nm is set to be the main option. However, we suspect the ageing ‘R series’ engine might be updated to the 2.0L SmartStream unit by the time it hits the market.
Alternatively, buyers will apparently be offered an optional 2.5-litre T-GDI turbo-petrol four-cylinder as well, developing around 206kW and 422Nm. Both of these units come with an eight-speed automatic, with a live-axle rear end with leaf springs.
Interestingly, Kia is set to launch a fully electric version as well. We’re hearing the range-topper will feature a 123kWh battery, sending energy to two electric motors for four-wheel drive. Outputs are a whopping 410kW and 800Nm. Acceleration from 0-100km/h is set to take around 4.9 seconds, with a range of about 450km.
It’s unclear if all options will be presented in Australia, however, our source says Kia is adamant about the new model being a proper workhorse, across the range. There’s talk of a full 3500kg braked towing capacity, and even 3400kg for the electric model, as well as a 1100kg payload as least on the combustion-engined models.
Other highlights include an electronic-locking rear differential, 800mm of water wading capability, and an overall length of about 5.4 metres to ensure good cabin space yet proper tray bed space. In fact, we understand the tray area will be able to accommodate a full-size pallet.
We’re told there are also plans for an optional sunroof, which is rare for the dual-cab segment, as well as ambient lighting for the interior, a ground camera system for off-roading, Harman/Kardon audio on some variants, and a column-mounted gear shifter.
Inside, our rendering by Josh, as guided by our source, shows a horizontal theme, with a full-width trim piece vent, a bit like what’s seen in the latest Honda Civic. Recycled cork surfaces for the centre console, dual 12-inch digital displays on one housing, and Kia’s typically convenient steering wheel controls and buttons are all part of the current design stage.
As for the prices, it’s looking like it will start from around $50,000 for the base model as mentioned, and then around $65,000 for the mainstream flagship ‘HiLux SR5’ rival, and from around $77,000 for the extra-rugged ‘Wildtrak X’ rival. The electric model is set to start from around $90,000.
Again, all of this information is based on our source who has seen the current plans. Plans could and often do change as production approaches, with tweaks to ensure it adheres to road laws and safety.
The Kia ‘Tasman’ is set to go on sale in Australia in the first half of 2025, with a debut of some kind likely taking place later this year. Whether the debut is just a concept or the production model is yet to be confirmed.
