New Kia Tasman targets Ranger, Hilux, and D-Max

New Kia Tasman targets Ranger, Hilux, and D-Max

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‍Bakkies have become a competitive segment. Brands such as Toyota, Isuzu, Volkswagen, Ford, JAC, GWM, and Nissan, among others, all have a presence in this segment. Mercedes-Benz tried to venture into the segment with the X-Class, but it failed to gain traction, which shows the importance of understanding the market dynamics and consumer preferences when venturing into this highly competitive fold. 

Speaking of partaking in the bakkie fold, Kia is the latest manufacturer that hopes to join the ranks with its new Tasman. It's set to go on sale in South Africa in the second quarter of 2025, and it will be sold in two variants: X-Line and X-Pro, each with distinctive features.

Design is a matter of personal preference, and on the subject, it looks like nothing we have seen before, yet it’s a refreshing and original aesthetic. We will leave the exterior details for you to admire.

The Tasman is versatile, with a load bed that measures 1,512mm long, 1,572mm wide, and 540mm deep, and as far as the payload is concerned, it’s rated at 1,195kg in 2WD mode plus a 3,500kg towing capacity to match those of competitors. To put that into perspective, some of SA's favourite bakkies such as the Ranger and Hilux, have load beds that measure 1,575mm and 1,525mm, respectively, thus making that of the Kia marginally smaller.

Buyers of the Tasman can configure their bakkie to suit their specific needs, with single-cab options that maximise bed space by converting the passenger compartment into a single-row layout. Kia will also offer a variety of accessories, including four bed configurations: Single Decker, Double Decker, Sports Bar, and Ladder Rack. Additionally, there will be 13 accessory products available, such as two types of side steps and beadlock-style wheels.

Regarding the interior, the Tasman seems to not have adopted functionality over an entirely minimalist approach, with several practical buttons, including heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, still present. What’s stunning, though, is the combination of a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with a 5-inch display in the middle and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system.

Other features inside include a large folding console table, dual wireless charging pads, and storage bins hidden under the rear bench. Additionally, the Tasman’s interior is available in five colours: Onyx Black/Medium Grey, Espresso Brown/Onyx Black, and Deep Green/Medium Grey. 

In terms of power, Kia says the SA-bound variants will be offered in two engine options: a 2.5-litre petrol engine and a 2.2-litre turbodiesel with two- and four-wheel-drive configurations. The former engine will be paired with an 8-speed automatic gearbox, while the latter will have a choice of a 6-speed manual transmission. 

Depending on the market, Kia will offer the Tasman in single- and double-cab body styles as well as a stripped-down chassis cab, allowing business owners to customise it for their specific needs.

As previously mentioned, the Tasman is scheduled to arrive in SA in the second quarter of 2025. While it will be interesting to see how it performs in the monthly sales charts, provided it is priced competitively against established segment leaders, it looks to have the potential to become a serious contender in the bakkie segment.