Kia is taking a different approach with their first global pickup truck, named Tasman. Although it won't be on sale until late 2025, Kia showcased it at the 2024 Busan Motor Show in South Korea. The Tasman, a mid-size truck and a Ford Ranger rival, features a special livery by artist Richard Boyd-Dunlop, leaving some parts exposed to show off design elements like square wheel arches and vertical headlights.
However, this isn't a near-production model; many components like brakes and suspension are missing. The design is final, though, with cameras for the blind spot system and steps integrated into the rear bumper. The interior is concealed but was shown in a TikTok video weeks ago.
Kia hasn't confirmed engine details but reports suggest a 2.2-liter turbodiesel with 4x2 and 4x4 options and an eight-speed automatic transmission. It might also get a V-6. The Tasman will offer a payload capacity of about 1 ton (2,200 pounds) and a towing capacity of up to 3,5 tons (7,700 pounds). An electric version is planned for late 2026.
The truck is supposedly larger than a Ranger but smaller than an F-150, and only the dual cab body style has been previewed so far. It's unclear if the Tasman will be sold in the United States.
Sources: Kia, CarSauce
