2023-06-01 03:45:06
While relatively few spy shots of the vehicle have surfaced over the last couple of years, Kia confirmed it was working on two separate electric pickup trucks last March. He revealed that one would be based on Hyundai’s E-GMP electric platform and the second would be focused on emerging markets. This second model is believed to be the one making its way to Australia, but it won’t be sold exclusively as an EV.
Kia Australia confirmed the model during its most recent meeting with local dealerships. The automaker has stated that the vehicle will be a “genuine and serious rival” to the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger, reports Drive. Kia is reported to have purchased Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger models for benchmark testing.
What will the Kia pickup look like?
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While limited details about the vehicle have been confirmed, the mid-size pickup will allegedly have similar towing and payload capabilities to its rivals, meaning it will be capable of hauling a payload of up to 1,000kg and will have a maximum towing rating. up to 3,500 kg.
Kia Australia has also confirmed to dealers that the pickup will be launched locally with diesel powertrains, the most likely candidate being the 2.2-litre CRDi four-cylinder turbodiesel used for many years in the Kia Sorento and Hyundai Santa Fe. The Mohave’s 3.0-liter turbodiesel is also a possibility. It is worth noting that an electric version of the pickup is also expected to be introduced at a later stage.
Underpinning the truck will be a new ladder chassis that will likely be shared with the Kia Mohave SUV sold in South Korea. Spy photos from earlier this year showed a prototype adorned with the Mohave’s bodywork, including its grille, headlamps, front bumper, front fenders, cabin and front doors. It remains unclear if this prototype was just using makeshift parts or if it will indeed share many external components with the Mohave.
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