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SEOUL, 2026-02-01 14:33:00
Kia Tasman: The Pickup Truck That wants to Be Everything to Everyone
Table of Contents
The new Kia Tasman blends rugged capability with surprising comfort, sparking debate about the future of pickups.
- Kia’s first authentic pickup truck, offering a unique blend of work and family vehicle features.
- Boasts a powerful 2.5-liter turbocharged engine with 281 horsepower and 43 kg-m of torque, capable of towing 3,500 kg and carrying a 700 kg payload.
- Features advanced off-road technology, including terrain modes and a crawl function, enhancing its versatility.
- Prioritizes rear passenger space and comfort with adjustable seats and a family-amiable interior.
- Pricing starts in the mid-3,000 range, positioning it competitively within the Korean market.
The domestic pickup market is buzzing, and for good reason: the Kia Tasman has arrived.This isn’t just another truck; it’s Kia’s first authentic attempt at a pickup, and it’s generating a lot of conversation online about its price, performance, and how genuinely usable it will be. The Kia Tasman is a pickup on the outside, but inside, it’s a configuration that blurs the line between a family car and a work vehicle, drawing more attention.
Authentic Pickup Performance
At the heart of the Kia Tasman is its robust build and enduring strength. A 2.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission delivers a maximum output of 281 horsepower and approximately 43 kg-m of torque-figures that are notably high for a mid-size pickup. It can tow up to 3,500 kilograms and carry a payload of up to 700 kilograms, meaning it won’t struggle whether you’re hauling a yacht or a camping trailer.
The Tasman’s ability to navigate challenging terrain is also extraordinary. It can traverse water at a consistent speed, reaching depths almost to the top of its wheels. This capability is likely rooted in the technology Kia developed while manufacturing military vehicles. The frame supporting the car’s body is specifically designed for rough roads, providing extraordinary torsional strength and long-term durability.
What sets the Kia Tasman apart isn’t just its raw power, but its thoughtful features. An electronic differential gear lock enhances traction on tough roads, while terrain modes allow drivers to customize settings for various surfaces like sand, mud, and snow. Select trims include a low-speed crawl function, enabling the vehicle to navigate rough terrain slowly and steadily without constant pedal input.
Drivers can also monitor the underside of the vehicle, temperatures, and driving conditions via an off-road information screen and ground view function. The cargo bed is equipped with rails, cleats, integrated lighting, and corner steps, adding practicality and convenience. A tow mode and trailer shake suppression technology further enhance its capabilities for hauling and camping.
SUV-Like Interior and Competitive Pricing
While the exterior is undeniably rugged, the Kia Tasman’s interior leans more towards the comfort of a family SUV-a detail that’s generating meaningful buzz. The cabin features a wide,integrated screen configuration,providing a seamless digital experience. Amenities like Harman Kardon audio, wireless smartphone connectivity, ambient lighting, and a table-type center console with storage enhance the driving experience, especially on long journeys.
The rear seats, a common point of concern in pickups, offer adjustable backrest angles and fore-aft movement, providing a considerably more comfortable experience for passengers. Wide-opening doors and under-seat storage trays add to the vehicle’s family-friendly appeal. Pricing begins in the mid-3,000 range for the base trim, making it competitive with other pickups in the Korean market, with higher trims offering additional convenience and off-road features.
The Kia Tasman delivers on the conventional pickup promise of power, capability, and versatility, but it distinguishes itself with an interior that rivals a family SUV. By combining advanced electronic driving aids with trailer-focused features, it caters to consumers who want a vehicle that can handle both work and leisure. The pricing strategy, aligned with domestic competitors, allows for customization based on individual needs and
