This is finally it. The all-new Kia Tasman dual-cab ute, revealed in all its glory. Well, some might argue that it isn’t so glorious, particularly the front end design. But anyway. Let’s dive in.
Kia has been developing the new ute for years now, including conducting plenty of tests here in Australia to ensure it meets our tough demands. And judging by the design and features, it is a large offering, with decent approach and departure angles, and the fashionable black plastic wheel arch extensions and lower skirting to reduce scratches and scuffs.
At the front it looks a bit like a porpoise, with beady ‘eyes’ as headlights and an awkward and protruding ‘forehead’ bonnet. There’s also a small interpretation of Kia’s tiger nose grille, with five vertical bars running along.
Overall, we think most would agree it is one of the ugliest utes of today’s market. However, three variants are being revealed, the Baseline, X-Line and X-Pro. The latter, a rugged setup, does look decent from some angles. Cab-chassis body styles will be offered, along with a range of genuine accessories.
Dimensions are; 5410mm in length, 1930mm width, 1870-1920mm height, with a 3270mm wheelbase. Ground clearance is rated between 224-252mm, depending on the variant.
The all-important specs are really going to matter here. Starting with the engine, it’s a 2.2-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder generating 154kW and 441Nm, as previously reported by us. A 2.5-litre turbo-petrol will also be available in some markets, as exclusively reported by us.
Matched up to the diesel is an eight-speed automatic transmission with part-time four-wheel drive, with a ‘4A’ mode for on-tarmac 4WD. This is unlike many of the popular contenders, which use switchable RWD/4WD configurations with no centre differential. It does feature a dual-range transfer case as well, with live-axle rear suspension and a locking rear diff.
Inside, Kia has blended plenty of its current themes, with lots of storage and shelves, blended with a number of ‘rugged’ inspired elements to make it suitable for daily work duties. Two digital screens run across the dash (12.3in), with a full-width climate vent design beneath.
It’s good to see some physical buttons for certain functions as well, along with a spacious rear seat complete with climate vents, a flip-down armrest with cup holders, and big pockets in the doors with bottle holding sections.
Full Australian specs are yet to be confirmed, but more details will be announced later this year. Stay tuned.
