Kia has finally put an end to years of speculation and a recent teaser campaign by unveiling its highly anticipated Kia Tasman bakkie. This debut took place at the Jeddah International Motor Show in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, October 29, marking a major milestone for Kia’s entry into the competitive bakkie market.

The Tasman, a name inspired by the Tasman Sea between Australia and New Zealand, represents Kia’s bold move to redefine the bakkie segment. The vehicle features a fresh exterior design and a brand-new platform, paired with a range of engine and body options to cater to diverse market needs. The Tasman is a culmination of international engineering efforts, with much of its development done in Australia and extensive testing across climates in the Middle East, United States, South Korea, and Sweden. In total, the vehicle has undergone more than 1,777 unique tests, rigorously assessing durability, towing, off-road capabilities, and performance.

Robust Design and Engineering

The Tasman is built on a unique ladder-frame chassis and measures 5,410 mm in length, 1,930 mm in width, and 1,920 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,270 mm. This construction provides a foundation for high durability and off-road capability, with ground clearance between 224 mm and 252 mm depending on the trim. The Tasman is capable of towing up to 3,500 kg and can wade through water up to 800 mm deep. Its suspension system includes double wishbones at the front and a rear setup with vertically mounted shock absorbers and leaf springs, reflecting the classic bakkie build.

Available in single and double-cab configurations, as well as a unique cutaway chassis cab specifically for the Australian market, the Tasman’s payload capacity ranges from 1,017 kg to 1,195 kg. It is offered in three trims: the base, X-Line, and X-Pro, with the latter two featuring all-wheel-drive as standard and multiple driving modes tailored to different terrains.

Advanced Off-Road Capabilities

The Tasman’s X-Pro trim is particularly suited for off-road conditions, boasting an electronically locking rear differential and a specialized X-Trek feature that maintains crawl speed without driver input when off-roading. Its off-road package also includes Downhill Brake Control, trailer sway control, and a low-range setting, providing drivers with an array of tools for challenging landscapes.

Interior with Modern, Eco-Friendly Features

The Tasman’s interior takes a different approach compared to traditional bakkies. Inspired by Kia’s all-electric EV9 SUV, the cabin features dual 12.3-inch digital displays for the instrument cluster and infotainment system, complemented by a five-inch screen for climate control. Despite the modern design, Kia has maintained physical switchgear for ease of use. The center console includes two wireless smartphone chargers, cupholders, and even a folding table that can act as a workspace.

Eco-friendly materials play a key role inside, with much of the upholstery and trim made from recycled plastic, synthetic leather, and bio-based paint. Available features include an eight-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, a transparent underbody camera, Remote Park Assist, and active safety technologies such as Blind Spot Monitoring and Lane Keep Assist.

Engine Options

To cater to its target markets, the Tasman offers two four-cylinder engines. The petrol engine, a 2.5-liter T-GDI, produces 207 kW and 421 Nm, allowing the Tasman to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 8.5 seconds, reaching a top speed of 185 km/h. The diesel option, a re-tuned 2.2-liter CRDI, delivers 154 kW and 441 Nm, with a slightly slower 0-100 km/h time of 10.4 seconds and the same top speed. Both engines come paired with an eight-speed automatic gearbox, while a six-speed manual option will be available on the diesel variant for select markets, including Africa.

Scheduled Release

The Tasman is set to launch in South Korea in early 2025, followed by Australia, Africa, and the Middle East. South Africa is expected to receive the model in the latter half of the year. With nine color options including Clear White, Interstellar Grey, and Aurora Black Pearl, the Tasman is set to make a distinctive entrance into the global bakkie market. More details on pricing and specific configurations for the South African market are anticipated closer to the release date.

Here’s a table summarizing the key features of the new Kia Tasman bakkie:

Feature	Details
Launch Date	Expected in South Africa in the second half of 2025.
Dimensions	Length: 5,410 mm, Width: 1,930 mm, Height: 1,920 mm, Wheelbase: 3,270 mm.
Bodystyles	Available as Single Cab, Double Cab, and a chassis cab variant.
Engine Options	2.5L petrol engine (207 kW, 421 Nm) or 2.2L diesel engine (154 kW, 441 Nm).
Transmission	Eight-speed automatic transmission; six-speed manual available in some regions.
Towing Capacity	3,500 kg.
Payload Capacity	Between 1,017 kg to 1,195 kg depending on configuration.
Ground Clearance	Ranges from 224 mm to 252 mm depending on the trim level.
Suspension	Double wishbone front suspension and leaf springs at the rear.
Drive Options	Rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive is available; the latter includes various off-road modes.
Interior Technology	Dual 12.3-inch digital displays for instrument cluster and infotainment; features like wireless charging and a Harman Kardon sound system.
Safety Features	Blind Spot Monitoring, Lane Keep Assist, Remote Park Assist, and a transparent underbody camera.
Customizable Accessories	Options include various bed configurations and accessories like side steps and cargo racks.