According to Carscoops, despite Kia’s consistent expansion of its product range over the last two decades, the pickup truck segment remains a relatively unexplored territory for the South Korean automaker. However, with the upcoming launch of the Kia Tasman, the company is set to fill this gap in its lineup.
As reported by Carscoops, the Kia Tasman, slated for release next year, will compete in the mid-size pickup truck segment against rivals such as the Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger, Mazda BT-50, and Isuzu D-Max.
Recently, Carscoops spotted another camouflaged prototype of the Kia Tasman undergoing testing in Spain. Despite the disguise, it provided a glimpse into what we can expect from this highly anticipated pickup truck.
The Kia Tasman is expected to feature a distinctive design that sets it apart from its competitors, although perhaps not as radically as the Tesla Cybertruck. The front grille is predicted to showcase an interesting five-vertical-slat design, with LED headlights positioned lower and complemented by a daytime running light signature.
According to Carscoops, the Kia Tasman will likely have wheel arch cladding that extends beyond the body width. The cargo bed will be spacious, and as seen at the Busan International Mobility Show 2024, it will feature a side step, a tonneau cover, and compact LED taillights.
In terms of mechanics, Carscoops suggests that the Kia Tasman may utilize a body-on-frame platform similar to the second-generation Kia Mohave SUV. The standard engine is expected to be a 2.2-liter CRDi four-cylinder unit, delivering 199 horsepower and an impressive 441 Nm of torque.
Interestingly, Carscoops also spotted the Kia Tasman undergoing testing alongside the Ford Ranger Raptor in Sweden, fueling speculations about a high-performance variant to rival the Ranger.
Currently, Kia and Hyundai share a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 gasoline engine that could be a suitable option for the high-performance version of the Kia Tasman. Additionally, Carscoops mentions the possibility of a 3.9-liter V6 turbo-diesel engine as another viable choice.
The primary markets for the Kia Tasman are expected to include Australia and Southeast Asian countries. However, there is also a chance that this first-ever Kia pickup truck could make its way to Europe. Unfortunately, Carscoops believes that the “chicken tax” will likely prevent the Tasman from entering the US market.
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