Kia’s First Pick-Up Truck, the Tasman, Set to Launch in 2025

Kia has confirmed the development of its first pick-up truck, the Tasman, set to launch globally in 2025. The Tasman will enter the C-segment pick-up truck market and will be available in markets such as Korea, Australia, Africa, and the Middle East. Kia aims to combine work-focused capability with lifestyle-orientated versatility with the Tasman.

The Tasman is expected to be equipped with a 2.2-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine paired with an 8-speed torque converter automatic transmission. Additionally, rumors suggest that Kia may offer a 2.5-litre turbo petrol engine with a hybrid powertrain option. The pick-up truck is likely to feature all-wheel drive or 4×4 system, differential locks, and a low-range gearbox. There may also be a high-performance version with a V6 powertrain in the future.

Key competitors for the Kia Tasman include the Ford Ranger, Hyundai Santa Cruz, and Volkswagen Amarok. The manufacturer has been conducting testing for the pick-up truck in Australia, but there is no confirmation on whether the Tasman will be introduced in the Indian market.

On a separate note, Kia is preparing to launch a new SUV in India called Clavis, positioning it between the Sonet and Seltos. The unveiling of the Clavis is expected by the end of 2024 with a potential launch in early 2025. Additionally, Kia has announced plans to introduce its three-row electric SUV, the EV9, in India in 2024. The EV9 aims to capture a significant market share in the passenger EV segment in India.

Overall, Kia is expanding its portfolio with the Tasman pick-up truck, the Clavis SUV, and the EV9 electric SUV in various global markets, including India. The manufacturer is focusing on providing a diverse range of vehicles to cater to different customer preferences.