There have been pick-up trucks in the Kia range for a long time but they have been the light commercial vehicles used for urban businesses, not the modern lifestyle vehicles that are now common sights on streets.
Soon Kia will launch a new pick-up truck which will enter the sizable global C-segment which has established models like the Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger, Isuzu D-MAX and Mitsubishi Triton. The Korean company’s model will be known as the Tasman, inspired by the rugged beauty and pioneering spirit of Tasmania, the island at the southernmost tip of Australia.
Name initially proposed by Kia Australia
The name, selected from a pool of names sourced from Kia’s global markets and was initially proposed by Kia Australia, is said to encapsulate the spirit of adventure, reflecting the rugged nature and capabilities of Kia’s first lifestyle-oriented pick-up truck.
While only the name has been confirmed, the powertrains are not but it is expected that the Tasman will come with muscular petrol and turbodiesel units as well as electrified powertrains (hybrid and fully electric).
Unveiling in late 2024
The model will be unveiled in late 2024 and phased launches will start early next year in markets such as Korea, Australia, Africa and the Middle East. The regions targeted take into consideration factors such as Australia’s strong market for pick-up trucks; Korea’s growing interest in outdoor pursuits; and Africa and the Middle East’s need for tough off-road vehicles in diverse terrain, including deserts.
