The cat’s out of the bag – Kia is gearing up for the launch of its pickup truck, the 2025 KIA Tasman, with test mules spotted and anticipation building. The Tasman, set to hit the market in 2024, is no longer a well-kept secret. Kia enthusiasts speculated about the company’s pickup plans, with past concepts like the Mojave and the Mohave SUV fueling the rumor mill. Now, it’s official – the Tasman is the chosen name for Kia’s upcoming pickup.
Spy photos from Korea offer a glimpse of the heavily camouflaged 2025 KIA Tasman test mules. While Australian fans eagerly await sightings on their streets, the anticipation grows. The limited visibility leaves much to the imagination, but it appears the Tasman will be a midsize model, aligning with market expectations. Drawing comparisons to the Hyundai Santa Cruz, the Tasman is poised to make its mark in the pickup realm.
2025 Kia Tasman Specs
Under the hood, the 2025 KIA Tasman is expected to house a V6 engine, potentially borrowed from the Telluride SUV, producing 291 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. With a midsize profile, the Tasman is likely to boast a towing capacity exceeding the Telluride’s 5,500 lbs. An optional all-wheel-drive configuration adds versatility, while a potential shift to a rear-wheel drive setup could accompany a new platform.
In line with the industry’s shift towards efficiency, a four-cylinder engine might serve as an entry-level offering for the Tasman. Alternatively, a turbocharged version could match the power of a V6. The trend of replacing V6 engines with turbo-four units is gaining traction, balancing power and fuel efficiency. As Kia positions the Tasman, its engine options will likely cater to a diverse range of consumer needs.
2025 Kia Tasman EV
Embracing the electric future, Kia’s Tasman is set to feature a platform supporting hybrid configurations and fully electric powertrains. While specific details remain undisclosed, speculations draw parallels to the Carnival minivan’s engine room. A hybrid variant, potentially based on a V6 engine, is in the cards. The challenge lies in balancing fuel economy with enhanced towing capacity, a unique demand in the pickup segment.
Concept and Release Date
Kia’s venture into the pickup realm dates back to 2006 with the Mojave concept. Economic challenges halted its progress, but the Korean automaker remained determined. After a decade, rumors resurfaced, hinting at the utilization of existing architectures, with Mohave as a potential starting point. The revival signals Kia’s commitment to the pickup market, with the Tasman’s concept supporting hybrid systems, hinting at a possible all-new architecture.
As Kia prepares to unleash the 2025 KIA Tasman onto the pickup landscape, it brings a blend of anticipation, innovation, and a commitment to diverse powertrains. The Tasman is not just a new model; it represents Kia’s strategic move to meet the evolving demands of the pickup market while embracing a sustainable automotive future. Stay tuned for more updates as the Tasman gears up for its 2024 debut.
