Kia Tasman SUV Tease

The Tasman SUV

Kia seems to be cooking up something big in Australia, and it could shake things up in the SUV world. There’s talk about the Kia Tasman pickup paving the way for a new SUV that could square up against some heavy hitters like the Toyota 4Runner and the Toyota Land Cruiser. It’s not set in stone yet, but this potential SUV could pop up on the market by 2029.

What We Know

Kia’s team down under is hinting at the possibility, but they are playing it cool. The chief engineer of ride and handling reportedly mentioned this SUV might see the light of day three years down the road. The general mood seems to be, “let’s get the Tasman right first and see what doors it opens.” It makes sense, given that the Tasman pickup is just about to debut in the Australian market this July.

Specs at a Glance

Now, let’s dive into the Tasman pickup’s specs, as they could give a peek into the SUV’s potential features. The Tasman’s pricing in Australia starts at 42,990 AUD, converting to roughly $27,910 USD, and stretches up to 74,990 AUD or about $48,686 USD for the top-tier model. It’s powered by a 2.2-liter four-cylinder turbodiesel engine generating 207 horsepower and 324 lb-ft of torque. It pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission, offering both rear-wheel and four-wheel drive options.

Feature Set

Even at its entry-level, the Tasman doesn’t skimp on features. Buyers get LED headlights, a 12.3-inch digital instrument screen, and an infotainment system of the same size, along with a 5-inch climate control display. The higher trims offer extra comfort with amenities like heated and ventilated front seats, a premium Harmon Kardon audio system, and a panoramic sunroof.

Driving Dynamics

When it comes to how it feels on the road, the Tasman SUV could bring an intriguing mix of capabilities. Its body-on-frame construction promises durability on tough terrains, aligning it with competitors like the Toyota Prado and Ford Everest. Such vehicles are well-regarded for their off-road prowess and towing capabilities. The potential Tasman SUV is presumed to carry this ruggedness while providing a comfortable urban drive, thanks to Kia’s focus on ride handling and quality interiors.

The Potential

If Kia pulls the trigger on this SUV, they could be entering a competitive field. The popularity of the Toyota Land Cruiser and Prado, as well as the Ford Everest in Australia, demonstrates a market hungry for versatile, rugged vehicles. The Tasman SUV, with its promising specs and Kia’s reputation for innovation and reliability, could offer a fresh alternative in a growing segment.