Kia Tasman redefines the pickup truck with purposeful design and innovative technology, delivering true practicality
Kia Tasman First drive at Bathurst for launch
July 2025 update
Well, the Kia Tasman is finally here. After what seems like 9-10 years (its close) the Tasman was finally launched around the central west of NSW in the Orange / Bathurst region.
Yes, I did do a couple of laps of the MT Panaroma circuit, albeit at a strict 60 km/h as there were two police patrol cars looping as well.
The Tasman enters a particularly crowded segment of the market. Utes are popular in Australia, but there is growing competition from new entrant brands and alternative hybrid, EV, and PHEV technology.
So, the question I have been asked what seems like a thousand times –
Is the Kia Tasman any good.
The short answer is – YES.
Tasman quick video to address criticism
Where does the Tasman sit in the market.
Is it a lifestyle Ute like the BYD Shark 6 or is it a bargain Ute like a SsangYong or GWM Cannon. Or is it a serious competitor for the established Utes like the HiLux, Ranger, Navara, D-Max, BT-50 etc.
The short answer again is that it’s a serious competitor for heavy duty recreational Utes.
What is good? |
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What is not so good? |
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Instead of the Tasman what else could I buy:
Buyers of the Tasman X-Pro could look at : Isuzu D-Max Blade, Ford Ranger Tremor, Toyota HiLux Rogue, Nissan Navara Pro 4-X Warrior, Mazda BT-50 SP, Mitsubishi Triton GSR.
Let’s quickly recap what we know and then chat about the launch drive.
Kia Tasman quick recap
- There are five models. ‘S’ ( in both 4×2 and 4×4) – ‘SX’ – SX+’ – ‘X-Line’ – ‘X-Pro’
- The model walk for model details is below in the article.
- The first three models have just been awarded a five star ANCAP safety rating.
- The X-Line and X-Pro will remain unrated.
- X-Line and especially X-Pro are aimed at the 4WD recreational market.
- Pricing for the pickup style Utes ranges from $42,990 MLP* through to $74,990 MLP* plus the usual costs.
- Pricing for the cab chassis work Utes ranges from $38,010 MLP* through to $52,740 MLP* all plus the usual costs.
- All models have the 2.2L 4 cylinder turbo diesel engine that has 154kW of power and 440 Nm of torque.
- All models have the in house 8 speed Auto transmission with torque converter from the Kia Stinger
- All models are rated to tow 3500 kg with a 350 kg tow ball rating.
- All models have a payload in excess of 1000kg but can be specified with less for novated lease purchase.
Most of this review will focus on the Tasman X-Pro as that’s what we drove predominantly. We did drive some X-Line and SX models as well.
Other models will have their own review as we book them for test runs.
What does the Kia Tasman look like – lets address the elephant in the room.
Lots has been said about its looks. Almost all online comments have been trending negative towards its styling.
Lets face it – the Tasman is very different.
Considering some of the alternative styles that looked quite good. The decision to go with this one will prove a master stroke or a catastrophe.
My gut feel is the design is a master stroke.
I have to admit I’m not a huge fan of the styling; however, it is growing on me.
I do like the bold, muscular wheel arches as well as the strong grill. The integrated LED DRLs, Headlights and where applicable fog lights add to the presence.
I think the worst look is the profile. It seems squared off and looks like three boxes were joined together. Interestingly amongst all the images Kia provided, there were only one or two profile pics.
It looks better from the rear.
Other external design features
- The integrated fuel filler cap and storage area in the wheel arches (not all models)
- The storage area has been suggested as a perfect place for an onboard compressor.
- Two different front ends. One with a lower air dam, specifically designed for pedestrian safety and to get the 5 star ANCAP rating. The other one has better approach angles on the X-Line and X-Pro
- Rear side corner steps and rear step aid in access for the tub, which is quite deep.
- Soft opening tailgate and assisted close is good.
- The tub has tie points in each corner, but they aren’t located at the bottom of the tub. They are hard fixed and substantial though.
- Tub is wide enough for a full pallet.
- 240V outlet in tub, like other Utes, is practical.
What about inside – Whats it like
Quick opinion is that the interior of the Tasman is Premium SUV like. Especially in the upper models.
First thing you notice are the wide opening doors, both front and back. There are grab handles on each door as well.
The steering wheel is an unusual shape, squared off top and bottom. It does however have excellent feel in the hands.
This design doesn’t restrict viewing access to the 12.3 inch drivers instrument cluster. Along side that is a 5 inch A/C control screen, which is obscured by the steering wheel. Then the 12.3 inch central infotainment screen. Touch sensitivity is excellent.
The steering wheel has the usual controls there as well as buttons for drive mode and terrain mode. As you would expect its adjustable both for height and reach.
I also like the fact that Kia has gone for switch lever for many A/C functions. Its tactile again and practical.
X-Line and X-Pro
The X-Line and X-Pro have a transmission lever behind the steering wheel. This included the stop start button which is difficult to use. The others have a more conventional T-Bar lever in the centre tunnel.
All seats are comfortable and supportive, the X-Pro especially so.
I absolutely love the front headrests, they are impressive.
The door height opening is a little restrictive, but once on side the head room is class leading. It cavernous. One benefit of the high boxy design.
Sitting in the driver’s seat, the door rests are perfect height for me as well as the centre console bin lid. I do like the higher windowsill, its wide and supportive for an arm rest as well.
The centre storage bin lid will fold forward on the top spec models to form a flat platform which is kinda handy. There is a little storage slot behind the twin cup holders. In front is a dual charging tray with twin USB-C ports.
What about the rear seats
Rear seats are again, comfortable with reasonable leg/knee room. Head room is excellent. There is a 240V outlet, and a USB-C port on the driver’s backrest, which is unusual and again, handy. One unusual feature is a zip pocket on the front seat backs. Not the usual slide in pocket. Different, but is it any more functional – I’m not sure.
I’m 190 cm tall and larger than the average bear and I sat reasonably comfortably in the back seat with the front seat moved forward a touch. That would not have been possible in most other popular dual cab Utes.
Sitting in the back seat the ‘C’ pillars do intrude a touch on visibility. But a bonus is that the two outer rear seats are heated. Also, there are buttons to move the front passenger seat forward accessible on the side of the back rest for rear passengers.
Both rear seats have a segment-first slide and recline function on X-Line and X-Pro models, where the seat cushion slides forward while the seatback reclines to create a comfortable and relaxing experience for rear passengers.
There are two isofix and top tether points for baby seats. Also with the extra rear leg room, the Tasman may actually be able to fits a baby seat. Most Utes struggle with that.
Other quick thoughts about the interior
- I love the interior door handles, very tactile and stylish.
- In front of them are the controls for seat and steering wheel heaters (on the driver’s door) Passenger door is just seat heater obviously.
- The internal rear view mirror is quite sleek, against the recent trends.
- ‘A’ pillar restricts visibility a touch.
- Back seats are really designed for two occupants, with occasional third.
- Under rear seat storage is clever and practical
- Wireless phone charging tray is good, but will tend to be filled with general stuff, I fear.
- LED lights provide excellent illumination at night.
- Windscreen washers give a wide spread of water for washing.
- One exceptionally clever addition is the small icon showing vehicle dimensions. Always handy when heading into under cover suburban car parks.
So, the interior of the Tasman definitely has a premium SUV ambience about it.
Infotainment, connectivity, and technology
All Tasman’s feature Kia’s latest integrated panoramic display, comprised of:
- 3” driver,
- 5” climate control, and
- 3” multimedia displays,
- along with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and
- Kia Connect with intelligent remote control functions as well as
- innovative in-car services and Over-The-Air (OTA) updates.
Other features include:
- Inbuilt Satellite Navigation
- Ambient Mood Lighting (Light)
- Smart Cruise Control (unfortunately not selectable to remove the radar function.)
- Premium Sound System (Harmon Kardon) X-Pro only
Engine , Transmission, and drive modes
The Kia comes with the 2.2L 4 cylinder turbo diesel engine. It produces some 154 kW of power and 440 Nm of torque between 1750 and 2500 rpm. However around 80% of that is available at 1500 rpm.
The eight speed automatic transmission with torque converter, comes from the Stinger and is well suited to extract the most from the engine. There is both drive mode and terrain mode availability.
The engine is quite smooth, unlike many diesel Utes, there is no diesel rumble.
4WD Capability
The 4WD capability of Tasman is assisted by.
- Mud-guards (front and rear)
- Terrain Mode (Snow, Mud, Sand)
- Reactive: Mechanical Rear Diff. Lock (m-LD)
- 4×4 Active (4A) function, in addition to 2H, 4H, 4L
- Double Wishbone front suspension
- Rigid Axle (leaf spring) rear suspension
- 800mm wading depth.
X-Pro adds:
- Proactive: Selectable Rear Diff. Lock (e-LD)
- Terrain Mode (Snow, Mud, Sand, Rock)
- X-Trek mode (uphill/downhill/reverse)
- Ground View Monitor
- Off-Road Page
- Fuel Tank Under Cover
Suspension set up.
Like most dual cab Utes, Tasman has double-wishbone front suspension and a live rear axle with leaf springs. But with Kia’s obsession with tuning everything for Australian conditions the similarity ends there.
Especially with the frequency selective Sensitive Damper Control (SDC) and Hydraulic Rebound Stop technology. This is aimed at improving ride comfort across a multitude or road conditions. The frequency selective damper system can vary damping by between 30-40 per cent, while the hydraulic bump stops soften hard impacts.
What is the Tasman like to drive?
The competing demands of on road ride and handling and off road articulation and absorption are directly opposing requirements. How well Utes blend these different demands determines how well they perform. The Kia Tasman, under the guidance of Graeme Gambold, suspension tuning genius, is better than most.
On road
The on road drive program centred around the back roads from Orange to Bathurst. An area I know quite well. These hilly and windy roads are set to test the best suspensions. Lots of mid corner bumps, potholes, and road irregularities.
Apart from some slight jiggling on town roads, the ride is excellent. The worse the road gets the better the suspension performs.
With a wide stance and long wheelbase, the handling is amongst the best Utes available.
For wet and slippery/icy conditions there is 4A which allows full time 4WD similar to the Mitsubishi Super Select system.
Sudden changes of direction, to avoid wheel crushing potholes, were met with disdain.
The Tasman simply followed directions without fuss. There was little excess body sway.
In the X-Pro there was minimal road noise, and we were pretty well isolated from road bumps. Ironically, the road based tyres on lower spec models, seemed to be noisier and transferred more irregularities to the driver.
Bump stop development differed between the X-Pro and other models. However, I can recall only one time they were hit, and it felt progressive rather than a severe thud.
Its ride is great for an unladen Ute. Kia was so confident in the set up they had every Ute unladen, so we could feel the suspension at its worst.
The other thing I noticed was just how quiet the Tasman is. It’s like I was driving a Sorrento. This is from a combination of suspension set up and excellent sound deadening and firewall padding.
Off road
This sits in two sections. Gravel and dirt roads. Like the on road section the Tasman loved these. Quiet, stable, and surefooted. More potholes, more quick reactions, more stability from the Tasman.
The 4WD section we had available included rutted soft dirt uphill climbs with moguls to test wheel articulation and grip. Downhill descents again rutted and testing articulation. Crossovers, tight turns, wet and slippery trails and more.
On a particular ascent where is was soft dirt and required careful wheel placement, I drove it twice. Once in 4WD L with rear diff locked and everything on my right foot. Tasman climbed with minimal wheel spin and fuss. It wasn’t the fact that the Tasman climbed that section, most Utes will do it. It’s more how easily it coped.
I drove the same section again, this time solely using the clever X-Trek system. All I had to do was set the speed and steer.
This systematically detect wheel spin and send power to the opposite wheel, while braking the spinning wheel.
I would consider myself a reasonably competent 4WD enthusiast. I’ve been doing it since I was 11 years old. I have to admit that the X-Trek drove the section probably better than I did.
Kia has designed the Tasman to allow the front traction control, system to work while in 4L and with the rear diff lock engaged. Similar to the Isuzu D-Max.
I also drove a crossover section again in 4WD L with rear diff locks, then again, just for fun in 4H. This showed to me just how good the Tasman is off road. In 4H it had minimal wheel spin, more that before, but was otherwise without fuss.
Towing
On test we towed a couple of trailers and pop top caravans.
All up the heaviest was around 2300kg.
The test included lots of open road cruising, downhill speed control, starting from standstill up a hill and more. All typical towing scenarios.
It towed this with ease. However, I wouldn’t want to tow more that about 2500 -2800kg with the Tasman. I feel it would struggle with a heavier load. This is where it’s hard to beat numbers and 440Nm of torque is light compared to mainstream rivals. It simply doesn’t have enough grunt for heavy towing lads.
To help with this the Tasman has a tow mode function which changes the calibration of gear shifts. This worked a treat. Well designed to maximise the torque from the engine and transmission combination. There is enhance powertrain cooling performance to assist with cooling in extreme conditions and while towing.
I should point out that I also advocate for a maximum 3000kg tow weight for most Utes and 4WD’s even though they are rated to 3500kg.
It’s all about having excess capacity up your sleeve and not having the tail wag the dog.
To help with towing the Tasman come with an Integrated Trailer Brake Controller (ITBC). This enables electronic trailer brakes to be calibrated for optimal stability. With an override function within easy reach of the driver.
The ITBC integrates with Towing Mode (TBC), which enables the driver to set up specific towed loads and optimise all other towing related functions including Trailer Sway Control.
Accessories
Kia has developed an extensive range of functional and stylish accessories for the Tasman.
These include a range of frontal protection bars, many with rated recovery points. There are chassis mounted side steps, snorkel, roof rails and racks, tow bars and more. In addition, there are a variety of tonneau covers and for tray back Utes a range of trays.
I’m sure the aftermarket developers will be working hard as well on their range of accessories.
How safe is the Tasman.
Kia has deliberately gone for a two tiered approach to safety.
The lower spec models come with a front air dam that is designed for pedestrian safety and along with everything else allows those models to have a five star ANCAP safety rating.
The X-Line and X-Pro, being aimed at recreational 4WD activities don’t have that feature, and as such will remain unrated.
Like many vehicles these days that are afflicted with level 2 safety design, turning off the irrelevant safety features every time is a pain. However, Kia has finally made it simpler, but still not as simple as some others.
Safety features include: (X-Pro model)
- Front, Rear and Side Parking Sensors
- PCA (Parking Collision Avoidance Assist – Reverse)
- Around View Monitor (360° camera display)
- Highway Driving Assist 2 + AEB w/
- Car,
- Pedestrian,
- Cyclist,
- Junction Turning,
- Junction Crossing,
- Evasive Steering Assist &
- Direct/Oncoming Lane Change Detection
- Blind Spot Detection & RCTA
- Driver Attention Alert
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
- Electronic Park Brake with Auto Hold
- Navigation based Smart Cruise Control with S&G
- Rear View Camera with on/off switch
- Trailer Stability Assist
- Downhill brake control
Kia servicing costs and pre-paid plans.
Final thoughts for the Kia Tasman
Kia has taken a long time to join the Ute party in Australia.
They have the luxury of seeing what everyone else has done.
So, by rights they should be able to do it right first up.
They have nailed that.
Kia Tasman has a premium interior ambience; SUV like on road ride handling and quietness.
It also excels off road, on trails and 4WD tracks. It can sit proudly against the best in the segment.
To prospective buyers, don’t be a keyboard warrior or crit9ic. Get behind the wheel and see how good it is. It’s definitely worth a test drive.
If only they could change the 440Nm to 500Nm
Also, I’m waiting for the Tasman Stinger version.
Kia Tasman |
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Model |
Tasman X-PRO |
| Model Price | $74,990 MLP* |
| Engine | 2.2L 4 Cyl Turbo Diesel Euro 5 |
| Drivetrain | 8 Sp Sports AT Dual range 4WD |
| Power | 154kW @ 3,800rpm |
| Torque | 440Nm @ 1,750-2,750rpm |
| Safety | Unrated ANCAP |
| 0-100kmh / Top Speed | TBA |
| CO2 Emissions | 214 g/km |
| Economy ADR | 8.1L/100km / 80L capacity |
| Economy on test | N/A |
| Max Range | 1096 km |
| Range on test | N/A |
| Servicing | 12Mth / 15,000km 7 Yrs. Capped Price |
| Warranty | 7yr/ Unlimited km |
| Roadside Assist | 1Yr. conditional roadside assist |
*MLP Includes GST and LCT but excluding statutory charges, dealer costs and dealer delivery. See your dealer for RDAP. Does not include price of options. Some features mentioned in the article are options. RDAP means Recommended Drive Away Price (without options but including all other charges). Pricing is from Redbook as at date of article or from the manufacturer’s website.
Overall Rating |
88/100 |
| Behind the Wheel | 9 |
| Comfort | 9 |
| Equipment | 9 |
| Performance | 8 |
| Ride and Handling | 10 |
| Practicality | 9 |
| Fit for Purpose | 8 |
| AWD/Towing Capability* | 9 (4WD 4/5 Towing 5/5) |
| Technology/connectivity | 9 |
| Value for Money | 8 |
*Towing and AWD capability is measured against similar vehicles in the same class.
Dimensions |
Tasman X-PRO |
| Overall Length | 5410 mm |
| Wheelbase | 3270 mm |
| Width | 1930 mm |
| Height | 1925 mm |
| Wheels | 17×7.5 Alloy |
| Tyres | 265/70 R17 |
| Full size spare | Yes |
| Max ground clearance | Up to 254 mm |
| Wading Depth | 800 mm |
| Approach | 32.2 degrees |
| Rampover | 25.8 degrees |
| Departure angle | 26.2 degrees |
| Turning Circle KTK | 12.5 m |
| Tub Length | 1512 mm |
| Tub width arches | 1186 mm |
| Tub width | 1572 mm |
| Tub Depth | 540 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 2296 kg |
| Payload (kg) | 954 kg |
| GVM (kg) | 3250 kg |
| GCM | 6200 kg |
| Towing Capacity (braked) | 3500 kg |
| Tow Ball rating | 350 kg |
| Maximum Front Axle Load kg | 1450 kg |
| Maximum Rear Axle Load kg | 2002 kg |
Tasman Cab Chassis Pricing – August 2025 update
Kia Australia has confirmed cab-chassis pricing for the Tasman Single Cab and Dual Cab line-ups, following the Pick-Up range which is now in showrooms.
The Tasman Single-Cab chassis range spans three variants, opening with a very competitive $38,010 RRP for the S 4×2, with the S 4×4 at $45,010 RRP, and the SX 4×4 tops out at $49,520 RRP.
The Dual-Cab chassis line-up covers two variants, with the S 4×4 at $48,240 RRP, and the SX 4×4 at $52,740 RRP.
The two Dual-Cab chassis variants will be available in Australian dealerships from August, with the S and SX trim levels both featuring the Tasman’s advanced 4×4 drivetrain. Single-Cab chassis variants will follow in late 2025.
Cab-chassis Tasmans are priced beneath their Dual Cab equivalent trim levels and can be paired with a Kia Genuine Accessories tray, which can be accompanied by further options such as an under-tray drawer, tool box, and water tank.
- Tasman S 4×2 Single-Cab chassis with $38,010 RRP
- Tasman S 4×4 Single-Cab chassis with $45,010 RRP
- Kia Tasman SX 4×4 Single-Cab chassis with $49,520 RRP
- Tasman S 4×4 Dual-Cab chassis with $48,240 RRP
- Tasman SX 4×4 Dual-Cab chassis with $52,740 RRP
- Dual Cab Pick-Up variants now in Australian showrooms
Tasman Kia Genuine Accessories
While the Tasman itself has benefitted from significantly more Australian input than any other Kia, a range of 40 Kia Genuine Accessories have been developed in Australia to help owners make the most of the Tasman’s many abilities.
Beyond the aforementioned cab-chassis tray options, there’s a variety of roof storage layouts, canopies, tonneau covers, a sports bar or sail plane for Pick-Up models and multiple bull bar, side step and tow bar configurations to choose from.
Dedicated off-roaders can opt for a snorkel and dust defence kit, while general adventure is catered for with roof pods, in addition to bicycle, watercraft, and ski and snowboard carriers.
There’s also a car fridge, folding table, a variety of floor mat options, headlamp protectors, bonnet protectors, weathershields, sill protection, a roadside assist kit and aromatherapy diffuser.
Service costs and Prepaid costs
