The Kia Tasman is a midsize pickup truck manufactured by Kia, scheduled for release in 2025. Built on a body-on-frame chassis, it marks Kia's entry into the global pickup market, targeting regions such as Australia, New Zealand, Africa, the Middle East, and South Korea. The Tasman was first unveiled in October 2024 at the Jeddah International Motor Show in Saudi Arabia and simultaneously in Hobart, Tasmania.
The name draws inspiration from the Tasman Sea, reflecting its focus on the Australian and New Zealand markets. Produced in South Korea, the Tasman is positioned as a rival to established midsize pickups like the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger, offering strong towing capacity, versatile cabin options, and a modern digital interior setup.
Latest Updates
Official debut on 29 October 2024 in Saudi Arabia and Tasmania.
Customer deliveries began in Australia in April 2025, starting with dual-cab models.
Initial variants included S, SX, SX+, X-Line, and X-Pro.
All trims feature the 2.2L CRDi diesel engine; 4×4 standard except for the base S variant (4×2).
From August 2025, Kia added single-cab and dual-cab chassis options in S and SX variants.
The Tasman Weekender concept was revealed in April 2025, featuring lifestyle-focused elements.
Earned a five-star ANCAP safety rating in mid-2025.
Price and Variants (PKR)
The Kia Tasman is not officially available in Pakistan. Internationally, it is offered in trims such as S, SX, SX+, X-Line, and X-Pro. All variants are powered by a 2.2L CRDi turbo diesel engine, paired with either a manual or automatic transmission, with 4×4 available across most models.
In Pakistan, the Tasman would be available only through private CBU imports. The landed cost is expected to be significantly higher than that of competitors, such as the Toyota Hilux Revo, due to import duties, potentially placing it in the premium pickup segment, depending on the trim and specifications.
Engine and Performance
2.2L Smartstream CRDi Turbo Diesel
- Power: 207 hp (154 kW)
- Torque: 440 Nm
- Transmission: 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic
- Drive: 2WD (base S) or 4WD across higher trims
- Suspension: Double-wishbone front, rigid rear axle with leaf springs
- Features: Locking differential, terrain drive modes (Sand, Mud, Snow, Rock), low-range mode
2.5L Smartstream T-GDi Petrol (planned for select markets)
- Power: 277 hp (207 kW)
- Torque: 421 Nm
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Drive: RWD standard
- Battery Range / Mileage
The Tasman is not offered as a hybrid or electric pickup. Official fuel consumption figures have not been disclosed, but the diesel variant is expected to deliver economy suited for both urban use and long-distance towing.
Features and Technology (Interior + Convenience)
- Triple-screen setup: 12.3-inch instrument cluster, 5-inch HVAC control screen, 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen.
- An expandable console table doubling as a workspace.
- Ground View Monitor for off-road visibility.
- Dual wireless smartphone charging pads.
- Reclining rear seats with enhanced passenger comfort.
- 33-litre under-seat storage compartment.
- Over-the-air software updates.
- Harman Kardon premium sound system (higher trims).
Safety
The Kia Tasman has earned a five-star ANCAP safety rating, highlighting its strong structural design and advanced driver assistance features. Standard protection includes multiple airbags, anti-lock braking, electronic stability control, and trailer stability assist with trailer profile recognition. Higher variants are equipped with Highway Driving Assist 2, which integrates adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping for added support during long drives.
Off-road safety is further enhanced with terrain management modes, hill-start assist, downhill brake control, and a locking differential. The Tasman is also engineered for water fording up to 800 mm, ensuring durability in rugged conditions. Together, these features make the Tasman one of the most comprehensive safety offerings in the midsize pickup segment.
Exterior and Interior Styling
The Tasman incorporates Kia's "Opposites United" design philosophy, featuring a bold Tiger Face front end, a vertical headlamp setup, and a rugged stance. The X-Line and X-Pro variants feature additional off-road styling cues, including skid plates and larger alloy wheels.
Inside, the cabin emphasizes practicality and comfort with a
triple-screen layout, premium materials on higher trims, and a flat-folding workspace console. Rear passengers benefit from best-in-class reclining seats, making the Tasman unique among pickups in its segment.
Comparisons with Similar Cars
In Pakistan, the Kia Tasman would compete directly with the Toyota Hilux Revo, Isuzu D-Max, and imported Ford Ranger. While the Hilux and D-Max enjoy official after-sales support and wider resale acceptance, the Tasman offers advantages in interior technology, comfort features such as reclining rear seats, and a modern digital cockpit. Its towing and payload ratings are comparable to established rivals, but its CBU-only status places it in a premium niche segment.
Maintenance and Resale Value in Pakistan
Since the Tasman has not been officially launched, maintenance will be handled by Kia's general dealerships for routine services. At the same time, specific parts may need to be imported, resulting in higher costs and longer wait times.
Resale value remains uncertain, as buyers tend to prefer pickups backed by official support networks, such as the Toyota Hilux. However, its advanced features and unique positioning could appeal to a small but enthusiastic niche of buyers.
Conclusion
The Kia Tasman is Kia's first-ever pickup truck, combining strong towing capacity and durability with premium comfort and digital technology. However, it has not yet been officially launched in Pakistan; its presence as a CBU import positions it as a niche alternative to established pickups, such as the Toyota Hilux.
With its bold styling, reclining rear seats, and triple-screen interior, it appeals to buyers who value both utility and modern features, though high landed costs and limited local support remain key considerations