Kia Tasman To Be Brand’s First Pickup Truck

Kia has revealed the name of its upcoming pickup truck and it will be called the Tasman. Kia says the name has been derived from the spirit of Tasmania, the southernmost island in Australia. The Tasman will make its global debut in 2025 with its launch slated to happen in phases. 

The Tasman will be launched in markets like South Korea, Australia, Africa and the Middle East in a phased manner. Kia said this is being done to cater to unique demand for each market, which would mean that the Tasman will be slightly different in each market. 

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While Kia hasn’t divulged much, it did hint that the Tasman will have all-wheel drive capability and an off-road-oriented version to tackle a wide variety of terrains.

 Kia said the Tasman moniker was chosen from a variety of names sourced from various markets and Tasman was suggested by Kia Australia. To reveal the name, Kia Worldwide released a video that shows a blacksmith creating the Tasman badge. The badge was later seen on the tailgate of the Tasman below a big, embossed Kia logo. 

Reports suggest that the Tasman will come with a 2.2-litre diesel engine that will get an 8-speed torque converter automatic gearbox and selectable four-wheel drive. The Tasman could also get a 2.5-litre turbo-petrol engine with hybrid assist. 

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The Tasman is said to rival the likes of the Ford Ranger, Toyota Hilux and Isuzu D-Max pickup trucks when it launches globally in 2025.