Instead of merely slapping its badge on the Hyundai Santa Cruz, Kia is crafting its own unique truck. The two pickups will not share any mechanical components, as the Tasman will feature a body-on-frame design rather than a unibody construction. A recent teaser video showcases the rugged vehicle navigating the deserts of Al Qudra, United Arab Emirates. Although still wrapped in a vibrant, patterned cover, the square wheel arches with plastic cladding are visible. The vehicle also sports Telluride-inspired vertical headlights and rear bumper steps that facilitate access to the cargo bed. The Tasman is seen speeding over dunes and even performing donuts towards the end of the video.
Kia has reportedly conducted 1,777 distinct types of tests, with over 18,000 test rounds completed thus far. Despite the video being released on the Kia Worldwide YouTube channel, the Tasman is not expected to be sold globally. It has been spotted testing in California, but the company has not disclosed its availability in the US. If it does arrive in America, it is likely to be priced higher due to the Chicken Tax, potentially increasing the cost by 25% unless Kia decides to manufacture the truck at its Georgia plant. Additionally, Kia has been testing an all-electric pickup in the US, suggesting that at least one of the two models might be available in the country.
As for its powertrain, the Ford Ranger competitor is anticipated to come equipped with a 2.2-liter turbodiesel engine from the Sorento. Other unverified details include 4x4 and 4x2 configurations, a maximum payload capacity of 2,200 pounds, and a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds. There is no information on V-6 engines or plug-in hybrid options, which are offered by Ford. It remains uncertain whether the Tasman will be available in body configurations other than the double cab seen in all teasers, spy photos, and videos.
According to the South Korean Maeil Business Newspaper (Maekyung or MK), the domestically assembled Tasman will be marketed in the Middle East, Africa, and Australia. The world premiere is slated to occur at the Jeddah International Motor Show, which runs from October 29 to November 2. It is important to note that the Tasman is not Kia's first truck; the Bongo has been on sale in South Korea since 1980. The current fourth-generation model, introduced in 2005, has undergone a couple of facelifts and remains in production, including an electric version.
