Kia’s First Pickup Truck, the 2025 Tasman, Is Here to Shake Things Up

Kia has officially entered the pickup truck game with the launch of its highly anticipated 2025 Tasman. Known for its edgy designs and innovative features, Kia’s first pickup blends quirky styling with serious off-road capability, going head-to-head with the likes of the Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux. Though the Tasman won’t be coming to North America, it’s ready to tackle markets like South Korea, Australia, the Middle East, and Africa, where midsize pickups are fiercely popular.

Front view of the Tasman, highlighting the unique vertical headlights and oversized logo.

A Fresh Contender with Distinctive Styling

For those expecting a mini Telluride, think again. The Tasman has a style all its own, starting with a boxy, muscular body and unique front fascia that immediately distinguish it from the pack. The bold vertical headlights and mustache-like body cladding give it a one-of-a-kind look, even within Kia's own lineup. The rear is simpler, with a massive logo stamped into the tailgate — a feature that some might still confuse with “KN.” But the quirkiness of the profile view really sets the Tasman apart; there’s an option for a more conventional wheel arch if the bold black cladding isn’t your style.

Side profile of the Tasman with the unique “mustache” body cladding

Global Appeal with Region-Specific Powertrains

Under the hood, the Tasman offers multiple engine options tailored to each region. In Korea, Kia has equipped the Tasman with a robust 2.5-liter gasoline engine that churns out 277 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with either a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic transmission, offering smooth acceleration and a top speed of 115 mph. Meanwhile, Australia will see a 2.2-liter turbodiesel variant generating 207 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque, designed to meet the needs of its rugged landscape.

For those wondering, both engines are paired with either two- or four-wheel-drive configurations, giving customers flexibility based on their needs. Markets in the Middle East and Africa get the choice between gasoline and diesel, ensuring the Tasman can handle everything from urban commutes to desert expeditions.

Inside the Tasman: A Tech-Forward Cockpit

Once you step inside, you’re greeted by a more refined, car-like interior that’s anything but traditional. The Tasman features a triple-screen setup, consisting of a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 5-inch information display, and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen. Kia has struck a perfect balance between touchscreen functionality and physical controls, ensuring that commonly used functions remain easily accessible.

In addition to the ample screen space, the Tasman’s cabin boasts dual wireless charging pads, a Harman Kardon sound system, and grab handles built into the A-pillars. Kia claims best-in-class headroom, shoulder room, and second-row legroom, making the Tasman a comfortable ride for long journeys or rugged adventures. Plus, the rear seats can recline between 22 to 30 degrees — perfect for a little rest after a hard day's work.

the triple-screen interior layout with a focus on the infotainment screens.

Built for the Outdoors and Beyond

Kia has designed the Tasman with rugged terrain in mind. Equipped with a double-wishbone front suspension and a rigid rear axle with leaf springs, the truck can handle some serious off-road conditions. It can even ford water up to 31.5 inches deep, with waterproof connectors to protect certain interior parts. This level of durability is further enhanced with all-terrain tires, available in 17- and 18-inch sizes, and multiple driving modes, including Desert, Mud, Snow, and Rock.

With a payload capacity ranging from 2,242 to 2,635 pounds and a towing capacity up to 7,716 pounds, the Tasman is ready to haul whatever you throw at it, whether it’s for work or play.

The Indian Market Potential

While Kia hasn’t announced plans for India just yet, there’s a growing demand for midsize pickups in the country. If the Tasman were to launch in India, it would face competition from established players like the Mahindra Scorpio Getaway and Isuzu D-Max V-Cross. Given Kia’s recent success in the Indian market with models like the Seltos and Sonet, a future Tasman launch could see high interest among Indian consumers looking for a robust yet stylish pickup. India-specific adaptations, such as compatibility with CNG, could make it a serious contender here.

Packed with Practical Features

Kia is catering to the needs of both personal and business users with the Tasman’s lineup. The truck is available in single-cab and double-cab versions, plus a chassis cab for those who need a customizable workhorse. From day one, buyers will also have access to 13 accessories, including beadlock-style wheels, side steps, and a roof rack compatible with a rooftop tent — perfect for overland enthusiasts.

In the rear, the Tasman’s bed can be fitted with various add-ons, such as a canopy with butterfly doors, a sliding tonneau cover, or a roll bar. For business users, these options allow for a practical setup tailored to hauling goods, while recreational users get the flexibility to carry everything from camping gear to bicycles.

Future-Proof with an Eye on Electric

Kia has hinted at even bigger plans for the Tasman lineup, with an electric version in the works slated for a release by 2027. Though details are sparse, spy shots suggest testing has already begun. With EV adoption on the rise globally, an electric Tasman could potentially come to markets like the U.S. if Kia decides to enter that space.

If the electric version makes it to production, it will likely target urban markets that prioritize low emissions, while still maintaining the Tasman’s rugged appeal. Imagine tackling mountain trails on electric power alone, bringing a new level of eco-conscious adventure to the pickup segment.

Availability and Pricing

The Kia Tasman will first go on sale in South Korea in early 2025, with subsequent launches planned for Australia, Africa, and the Middle East. Saudi Arabia, in particular, is expected to be a major market, with the Tasman making its debut at the Jeddah International Motor Show. Pricing details have yet to be revealed, but expect it to be competitive with other midsize pickups in the market.

As Kia’s first venture into pickups, the Tasman is certainly stirring excitement. With its distinctive design, practical features, and a no-compromise approach to utility, Kia has created a truck that stands out in more ways than one.