Despite mixed reactions to its design, Kia is considering developing an SUV that shares the same platform as the recently launched strategic pickup, the Tasman.
According to a Carsales article, Kia is contemplating the creation of an SUV based on the Tasman’s body-on-frame architecture. The Chief Engineer of Ride and Handling for Kia Australia hinted at a possible launch timeline of around three years from now. However, the company’s Chief Marketing Officer quickly emphasized that this is not an official plan, and the success of the Tasman will be a key factor in determining the next steps.
Kia’s consideration of developing an SUV based on the Tasman platform is understandable, especially when considering the consumption trends in the Australian market. The country is renowned for its preference for larger, body-on-frame vehicles. Data from FCAI reveals that the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger, two stalwarts of the segment, continue to dominate sales in May, reflecting the strong potential for growth if the Tasman is positioned appropriately.
It’s not just pickup trucks that are popular in Australia; body-on-frame SUVs like the Toyota Land Cruiser, Toyota Prado, and Ford Everest also made it to the top 10 best-selling vehicles in May, showcasing the strong demand for vehicles with genuine off-road capabilities. If Kia decides to venture into this segment with an SUV based on the Tasman platform, it will go up against established competitors such as the Toyota 4Runner, Ford Everest, and Mitsubishi Pajero Sport.
The Tasman is Kia’s first mid-size pickup truck developed on a body-on-frame platform, targeting the Australian market and other regions with a high demand for this type of vehicle. It will be officially launched in Australia in July, offering a dual-cab configuration and a standard 2.2-liter turbocharged diesel engine that produces 207 horsepower and 440 Nm of torque. This engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and the option of rear-wheel or all-wheel drive.
In the Australian market, the Kia Tasman is priced from AUD 42,990 (approximately 727.18 million VND) for the base S model and goes up to AUD 74,990 (approximately 1.26 billion VND) for the top-of-the-line Tasman X-Pro 4×4.
The standard Tasman S features steel wheels, LED headlights, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a similarly sized central infotainment system. It also includes a 5-inch air-conditioning control display and an integrated trailer brake system, which is essential for customers who use their vehicles for towing trailers or caravans.
On the other hand, the range-topping Tasman X-Pro boasts a host of premium amenities, including power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation, a heated steering wheel, rear-seat heating, a Harman Kardon sound system, and a sunroof.
While Kia has not officially approved the plan to develop an SUV based on the Tasman, it is evident that a successful run for the pickup in Australia and similar markets would highly encourage the expansion into the SUV segment.
A body-on-frame SUV from Kia would be a strategic move, not only to diversify its product portfolio but also to enhance its competitive position against established brands in the global off-road SUV segment.
TH (Tuoitrethudo)
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