We have, um, some opinions about the first-ever Kia Tasman. But whether you love the look or loathe it, you can’t deny that it looks different. With an exterior design like that, it’s a pickup you wouldn’t lose easily in a parking lot.
The entire range has been revealed, along with several variants and body styles. However, there are one or two configurations that caught our attention.
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If we were to choose a Tasman, we’d probably skip the higher-specification models and go straight to the essential models. We’re taking about the cab and chassis body with an aluminum tray at the back. Why? Well, just look at it.
Maybe it’s just us, but there’s something strangely cool about base model pickups. In an age where these utilitarians are filled to the brim with tech and luxuries, a back-to-basics truck is a refreshing sight to see. In the case of the Tasman, the blocky and boxy design gels well with the steel wheels and tray. Pair that with a dark color and it looks purposeful, just like a pickup should.
Our favorite so far? That would be the two-door single-cab version in its most basic form. The four-door dual cab also looks mean, and it wouldn’t look out of place in a military base. We’ll go as far in saying that this pickup was born for the aftermarket crowd to play with, too. That front end is practically begging for a steel bumper upgrade.
There are no interior photos of the entry-level versions just yet. However, we’re expecting the same dashboard as those in the higher trim levels. Yes, it’s nice to have a utilitarian pickup, but some modern creature comforts would be nice as well.
There are two engine options available for the Kia Tasman. The first is a 2.5-liter turbo petrol that’s likely destined for the Middle East market. It makes 300hp and 422Nm of torque and shifts exclusively with an eight-speed automatic. The second is the familiar 2.2-liter turbodiesel that’s seen in many Kia and Hyundai SUV models. That one puts out 207hp and 441Nm of torque and can be paired with a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic.
At this point, you’re probably wondering if Kia Philippines will offer this model locally. So far, the company isn’t dropping hints, but given the popularity of pickups here, we’d like to think they’re considering it at the very least.
If so, we’ll take one with black steel wheels, please.
