Kia Tasman aims to take on established players in the mid-size segment like the Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger, Mazda BT-50, and Isuzu D-Max. Recently, spy photographers captured another camouflaged prototype undergoing rigorous testing in Spain’s hot climate.
Visually, the Tasman appears unconventional, though not as radical as the Tesla Cybertruck. While the overall silhouette aligns with other mid-size pickups, the front fascia boasts an intriguing grille design. Kia’s designers have taken a bold approach with the headlights, positioning them lower on the fascia for a distinctive look. The side profile is where the Kia will make its most dramatic statement. This prototype and others we’ve seen sport a set of boxy wheel arches that dramatically protrude from the rest of the body. The bed also looks quite spacious, and while the taillights of this example are almost completely hidden, they are expected to be trick LED units.
Underpinning the Tasman will likely be the
same body-on-frame architecture as the second-generation Mohave SUV. Most
versions sold will likely come with the 2.2-liter CRDi four-cylinder found in
other Kia and Hyundai models, like the Kia Sorento and Hyundai Santa Fe, where
it produces 199 hp and 441 Nm of torque.
Not too long ago, our spy photographers
snapped Kia testing the Tasman against a Ford Ranger Raptor in Sweden. This has
prompted speculation that a high-powered version to rival the Ford could also
be in the works. Kia and Hyundai have an impressive 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged
V6 gasoline unit in their family that could do this job nicely. Another option
could be Kia’s 3.0-liter turbo-diesel V6.
Key markets for the Tasman will include Southeast Asia and Australia, but there’s a strong chance it could also be sold in Europe.
