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There was a lot anticipation when Kia first introduced it was bringing a correct ute to market, and there’s little question the Tasman made a splash when it lastly landed after nice fanfare in mid-2025.
Plenty has been written in regards to the Tasman’s seems to be because it first debuted in late 2024, and whereas no one will argue that it’s the best design in automotive historical past, I feel numerous the criticisms levelled at Kia have been taken to the acute.
That’s to not say a few of these criticisms have been with out benefit, nevertheless it did really feel like there was a little bit of a pile-on. Which made me surprise: is that this the ute for the contrarian? The one that likes to go in opposition to the grain; who will get into their automobile every morning with a quiet satisfaction, understanding they’ve one thing that everybody is lacking out on?
The previous saying about judging a e-book by its cowl feels significantly related right here, so we determined to undertake a Kia Tasman as a long-term take a look at automobile to see if there’s extra to it in addition to its controversial mud jacket. As that is the conclusion, you possibly can learn our introduction by clicking right here.
We’ve reviewed the Kia Tasman a handful of occasions prior to now, throughout a wide range of environments, however there’s one thing to be mentioned for dwelling with a automobile – as a result of that’s arguably the place you be taught probably the most.
Spending a number of months dwelling with the Tasman was significantly worthwhile, as a result of seeing it day by day in your driveway modifications the way in which you see it. That preliminary shock fades, and you then begin noticing it for what it truly is: a quasi-military-inspired sq. design created to keep away from fading right into a sea of HiLuxes, Rangers, and Chinese utes flooding the market.
It’s in no way my favorite design, however I’m not as offended by its seems to be as others seem like. Regardless, I’ll have an interest to see what sort of styling modifications Kia makes within the coming years, as a result of after attending to know the Tasman, it’s clear the automobile would swimsuit many Aussie households.
The majority of our time with the Kia was spent commuting – travelling by way of suburbia, alongside freeways, and battling metropolis visitors – and doing airport runs between launch occasions. And although it wasn’t a complete take a look at of its off-road skills, we did get an opportunity to hit some trails earlier than we handed again the keys.
If you’re prepared, drop your preconceived notions about its design, and include us as we conclude our long-term evaluate of the Tasman.
How a lot does the Kia Tasman value?
The Kia Tasman begins at simply over $38,000 earlier than on-road prices for the single-cab/chassis mannequin with two-wheel drive, whereas the four-wheel drive Tasman X-Pro pickup bookends the vary at nearly $75,000 earlier than on-roads.
| Model | Price earlier than on-road prices |
|---|---|
| 2026 Kia Tasman S 4×2 single-cab/chassis | $38,010 |
| 2026 Kia Tasman S 4×2 dual-cab pickup | $42,990 |
| 2026 Kia Tasman S 4×4 single-cab/chassis | $45,010 |
| 2026 Kia Tasman S 4×4 dual-cab/chassis | $48,240 |
| 2026 Kia Tasman SX 4×4 single-cab/chassis | $49,510 |
| 2026 Kia Tasman S 4×4 dual-cab pickup | $49,990 |
| 2026 Kia Tasman SX 4×4 dual-cab/chassis | $52,740 |
| 2026 Kia Tasman SX 4×4 dual-cab pickup | $54,490 |
| 2026 Kia Tasman SX+ 4×4 dual-cab pickup | $62,390 |
| 2026 Kia Tasman X-Line 4×4 dual-cab pickup | $67,990 |
| 2026 Kia Tasman X-Pro 4×4 dual-cab pickup | $74,990 |
It’s value noting that these costs appear to be extra of a information, with loads of offers accessible at seller stage.
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However, at these listing costs, the Tasman has numerous robust competitors. The Ford Ranger Wildtrak is priced from $75,090 plus ORCs, and comes with numerous options, arguably much less controversial seems to be, and a 3.0-litre turbo-diesel V6 besides. There’s additionally the Mitsubishi Triton GSR at $65,590 plus ORCs, and the Toyota HiLux Rugged X for $71,990 plus ORCs.
One of probably the most attention-grabbing developments comes from GWM. The firm just lately launched a Cannon Alpha dual-cab with a 3.0-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine, providing 170kW/620Nm, and wonderful gas economic system – with the well-equipped Vanta flagship priced at $63,990 drive-away.
To see how the Kia Tasman traces up in opposition to the competitors, take a look at our comparability software
What is the Kia Tasman like on the within?
We touched on this within the introduction, however the cabin of the Kia Tasman is especially spectacular.
It’s clear this ute hasn’t been designed for use within the mines of Western Australia or for mustering in Queensland’s outback. That isn’t to say it’s not nicely constructed, as a result of it actually has a strong high quality to it, however Kia has opted for a premium inside really feel – significantly on this range-topping X-Pro – with soft-touch supplies, synthetic leather-stitched upholstery, and knurled aluminium highlights. In different phrases, there are not any massive slabs of low cost and hole injection-moulded plastic.
In truth, it says quite a bit that the inside of the Tasman is similar to the Kia Telluride – the massive range-topping SUV bought within the US, associated to the Hyundai Palisade. Kia positions the Telluride as its premium product for North America, and there are clear parallels with the Tasman.
In some methods, the Tasman has a extra attention-grabbing dashboard design, with the vents built-in into the honeycomb sample that extends the total width of the cabin.
Most of the automotive’s capabilities are dealt with by way of the infotainment display, which continues throughout to the digital instrument cluster. Between them is a small display for local weather management capabilities, and although it is appreciated, the panel is considerably obscured by the steering wheel. But there are fortunately bodily buttons for the dual-zone local weather temperatures and the fan, positioned under the bodily infotainment shortcut buttons.
There are additionally buttons for the seat heating and air flow positioned on the door, whereas the off-road controls are on the centre console – except for the driving and terrain mode selectors on the steering wheel.
Even although it is a dual-cab off-road ute, Kia hasn’t skimped on the screens. But there was clearly a aware determination to prioritise bodily controls and buck the money-saving pattern of constructing all the pieces undergo the touchscreen.
Then there’s the actual fact the buttons themselves are high-quality, with a satisfying motion upon use. With the exception of the quantity thumb wheel, the infotainment shortcut panel is haptic, nevertheless it fits it nicely. The aluminium local weather buttons with knurling are particularly good to make use of, as are the aluminium items on the steering wheel.
The theme continues with the within door handles, that are brushed aluminium and knurled, and pleasing to work with. They additionally spotlight simply how lazy most different automakers are in relation to touchpoints like door handles.
There’s the everyday drive selector nubbin protruding from the 4 o’clock place of the steering column, and although it’s not my favorite, it’s simple to make use of and never even near being the worst on the market. Opt for an entry-level grade, and also you’ll get a extra conventional T-bar shifter.
I discovered the box-quilted leather-trimmed seats to be superb, too. The form of the entrance seats doesn’t appear like something to put in writing residence about, but they match nicely and have good padding, whereas nonetheless providing some lateral assist. I alluded to it final time, however these mesh head restraints are nearly actually one of the best I’ve skilled in any automotive. It seems to be like Kia not affords the choice of a brown leather-based inside, which is a little bit of a disgrace.
Jump into the again, and also you’re greeted with tiltable seats which are extra akin to a household SUV than a business ute, which is to say the bench is sculpted and padded – with ample area for grownup legs, and considerate storage buckets beneath.
However, there are thick C-pillars, with the home windows of the again doorways being additional forward of the place you sit.
In the X-Pro, Kia provides second-row passengers air vents, USB-C ports, ISOFIX little one seat anchors, and a 240-volt family energy outlet, together with zip-up storage that’s harking back to Rip Curl pencil instances.
The tub will get a liner with the X-Pro, together with adjustable tie-down factors on a rail system, mounted tie-downs, a tailgate with ‘lift assistance’, and one other 240V electrical outlet for powering instruments, a fridge, or different tenting gear. Kia has included a big step on the rear, and two smaller steps at every nook of the rear bumper bar for simpler entry.
| Dimensions | Kia Tasman X-Pro |
|---|---|
| Length | 5410mm |
| Width | 1930mm |
| Height | 1920mm |
| Wheelbase | 3270mm |
| Tub size | 1512mm |
| Tub width | 1572mm |
| Tub depth | 540mm |
| Tub capability (VDA) | 1173L |
To see how the Kia Tasman traces up in opposition to the competitors, take a look at our comparability software
What’s underneath the bonnet?
The Kia Tasman is powered by a 2.2-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine placing out 154kW of energy and 440Nm of torque, mated to an eight-speed computerized transmission as customary, and with each two- and four-wheel drive accessible. For these venturing off-road, the Tasman S 4×4 will get a mechanical locking differential on the rear axle, which will get upgraded to an digital diff lock within the X-Pro.
| Specifications | Kia Tasman X-Pro |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.2L 4cyl turbo-diesel |
| Power | 154kW |
| Torque | 440Nm |
| Transmission | 8-speed auto |
| Drive kind | 4WD |
| Fuel economic system (claimed) | 8.1L/100km |
| CO2 emissions (claimed) | 214g/km |
| Fuel tank | 80L |
| Weight | 2237kg |
| Payload | 1013kg |
| Braked towing capability | 3500kg |
| Gross automobile mass (GVM) | 3250kg |
| Gross mixture mass (GCM) | 6200kg |
Kia claims 8.1L/100km for the mixed gas cycle, although we managed round 8.8L/100km throughout our prolonged take a look at.
To see how the Kia Tasman traces up in opposition to the competitors, take a look at our comparability software
How does the Kia Tasman drive?
Our time with the Kia Tasman proved it to be a helpful and cozy household automotive – albeit a little bit bigger than our necessities.
Stepping up into the Tasman, it’s clear it is a massive ute. Not on the stage of American pickups, however nonetheless noticeably extra spacious inside, and taking over extra room within the lane than phase opponents. That’s nothing new, with a number of producers pushing the scale of their dual-cabs as new fashions come to market.
My preliminary impression of the Kia was that it’s fairly comfortable on the street, and whereas that actually is the case, there appears to be reasoning behind this – which we’ll get to in a second.
While you’re conscious of the Tasman’s dimension whereas driving, the driving inputs required are all simple. The steering is nicely weighted, as are the pedals, and the chassis responds nicely to instructions, regardless of there being a little bit of lag because the turbo-diesel comes on track.
Kia seems to have tried to counteract that with low gearing for the eight-speed computerized, permitting the automobile to shift by way of ratios and reap the benefits of its torque band, and there is some eagerness to downshift if you sink the boot in. Overall, the powertrain is keen and prepared, with lots sufficient energy to get most duties executed.
Along with its seems to be, there was fairly a little bit of criticism in regards to the Tasman’s engine when it was introduced. But it’s roughly on par with the now-defunct turbo-diesel V8 of the LandCruiser 70 Series, and the newer 2.8-litre turbo-diesel within the 70 and the HiLux.
Having mentioned that, there’s nothing particular or noteworthy in regards to the engine, apart from it has a confirmed historical past throughout Kia and Hyundai merchandise, so it’s not an entire unknown. So, whereas its numbers are completely acceptable for a household SUV, these taking part in within the dual-cab area typically want bigger engines which are much less harassed.
Other than being a little bit loud, we by no means had any complaints in regards to the powertrain. And given the softness of the chassis setup, scaling up its efficiency may make for a bushy driving expertise. Sure, it’s not thrilling, however Kia has discovered a great stability right here.
One factor we significantly appreciated was the flexibility to modify to 4A, which engages part-time four-wheel drive when it begins raining, otherwise you’re driving on gravel. The Ford Ranger V6 (and the associated Volkswagen Amarok V6) in addition to the Mitsubishi Triton and Nissan Navara twins additionally provide this useful operate, nevertheless it’s not as frequent as you’d assume on this phase.
Surprisingly, the Tasman will get round a nook fairly nicely, helped by the Hankook all-terrain tyres on the X-Pro. It’s not about to scare any Porsches, however load up the suspension as you come right into a nook, and the Tasman will get by way of it with relative confidence, regardless of there being a little bit of weight behind it.
Ride consolation is among the many finest in its class, absorbing bumps and potholes, even and not using a load within the again. There is a minor shudder that echoes by way of the ladder-frame chassis when it encounters a bigger shunt; nonetheless, it is without doubt one of the higher off-road utes we’ve pushed in latest reminiscence.
The massive Kia’s superior driver-assistance system (ADAS) is okay… till it’s not. The ute doesn’t such as you transferring over to permit bikes to filter previous; it doesn’t such as you spending greater than a second or so something apart from the windscreen; and the overspeed warning is overzealous and annoying. Again, it’s not the worst I’ve used, nevertheless it’s a good distance from one of the best, and it put a damper on my time with the Tasman.
Some of the ADAS settings might be disabled by urgent and holding a button on the steering wheel, however having to try this each single time was additionally a drag.
Thankfully, none of that gaffe intrudes if you pull off the blacktop. While our off-road testing did not embrace prolonged hardcore trekking, heading away from the overwhelmed path to stretch its legs off-road confirmed what we’d suspected: the Kia Tasman’s suspension has been designed to dominate within the bush.
That softness means higher wheel articulation and traction, permitting you to get by way of some difficult tracks straight out of the field. The Tasman was designed with Australia in thoughts and examined extensively right here, and CarProfessional has spoken to a number of the drivers chargeable for its improvement previous to its launch, so we all know Kia put numerous effort into making certain it was succesful off-road.
There are additionally terrain modes and a locking rear differential for elevated grip, in addition to downhill velocity management and X-Trek – a sophisticated off-road cruise management system that is significantly useful should you’re driving over a bumpy floor and wish to keep away from stabbing the throttle.
| Off-road dimensions | Kia Tasman X-Pro |
|---|---|
| Ground clearance | 252mm |
| Approach angle | 32.2 levels |
| Departure angle | 26.2 levels |
| Ramp breakover angle | 25.8 levels |
| Wading depth | 800mm |
To see how the Kia Tasman traces up in opposition to the competitors, take a look at our comparability software
What do you get?
Though not on the identical stage as a few of its Chinese opponents, the Tasman would not really feel as sparse as a number of the entry-level variations of utes on this phase. Step as much as the X-Pro, just like the one now we have right here, and it is unlikely you will end up wanting for extra.
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2026 Kia Tasman S gear highlights:
- 17-inch black metal wheels
- LED headlights
- Daytime working lights
- Rear bumper steps
- Tailgate with ‘lift assistance’
- Smart key with push-button begin
- Cloth inside upholstery
- Dual-zone local weather management
- 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
- 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Six-speaker sound system
- Under-seat second-row storage
- Mechanical rear differential lock (4×4)
The Tasman SX provides:
- 17-inch alloy wheels
- Power-folding aspect mirrors
- Terrain Mode
- First-row security energy window
- Satellite navigation
The Tasman SX+ provides:
- 18-inch alloy wheels
- LED fog lights
- Bedliner
- 240V tub outlet
- Cloth and synthetic leather-based upholstery
- Wireless smartphone charger
- Ambient temper lighting
- Second-row air vents
- 240V centre console outlet
The Tasman X-Line provides:
- LED projector headlights
- Roof rails
- Rear wheel-arch flare storage system
- Not accessible on Tan Beige and Clear White examples
- Artificial leather-based upholstery
- Heated entrance seats
- Eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat
- Column shifter and shifter paddles
- Dual wi-fi smartphone charger
- Second-row armrest
- Privacy glass
- Remote smart-park help
The Tasman X-Pro provides:
- 17-inch black alloy wheels
- Fuel tank underbody safety
- Electronic rear locking differential
- X-Trek mode
- Terrain Mode
- Ground view monitor
- Off-road sprint info
- Steering course, steering angle, pitch/roll, engine gauges
- Heated steering wheel
- Ventilated first-row seats
- Heated second-row seats
- Harman Kardon sound system
- Sunroof
To see how the Kia Tasman traces up in opposition to the competitors, take a look at our comparability software
Is the Kia Tasman protected?
The Australasian New Car Assessment Program, higher often called ANCAP, awarded the Kia Tasman a five-star security ranking – although that particularly excludes the premium X-Line and X-Pro variants, just like the one we’re testing right here.
| Category | Kia Tasman |
|---|---|
| Adult occupant safety | 87 per cent |
| Child occupant safety | 85 per cent |
| Vulnerable street person safety | 74 per cent |
| Safety help | 80 per cent |
According to ANCAP, the off-road bumpers on the X-Line and X-Pro have an effect on weak street customers equivalent to pedestrians.
Standard security gear consists of:
- Autonomous emergency braking
- Pedestrian, bicycle owner, junction, automobile detection
- Adaptive cruise management
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Lane-centring help
- Lane-keep help
- Rear-view digital camera
- Trailer sway management
- Integrated trailer brake controller
Kia’s Highway Driving Assist 2 system and navigation-based adaptive cruise management are customary within the SX grade and above, whereas parking collision avoidance help, blind-spot monitoring, and 360-degree cameras come customary with the X-Line and X-Pro.
To see how the Kia Tasman traces up in opposition to the competitors, take a look at our comparability software
How a lot does the Kia Tasman value to run?
Kia affords a seven-year, unlimited-kilometre guarantee for personal consumers of the Tasman – reverting to seven years and 150,000km for these utilizing the automobile for business functions – with as much as eight years of roadside help if serviced by way of Kia dealerships.
| Servicing and Warranty | Kia Tasman X-Pro |
|---|---|
| Warranty | 7 years, limitless kilometres |
| Roadside help | Up to eight years |
| Service intervals | 12 months or 15,000km |
| Capped-price servicing | 7 years or 105,000km |
| Average annual service value | $585 |
| Total capped-price service value | $4093 |
The Korean automotive large additionally affords capped-price servicing for as much as seven years or 105,000km, with the X-Pro costing $172 lower than the remainder of the Tasman 4×4 vary over that interval.
To see how the Kia Tasman traces up in opposition to the competitors, take a look at our comparability software
CarProfessional’s Take on the Kia Tasman
The extra time we spent with the Kia Tasman, the extra we appreciated it for what it’s. And what it’s, is a really succesful, well-built, and cozy dual-cab 4×4 ute.
Aussies needing a dual-cab 4×4 ute that has true all-terrain functionality however can nonetheless deal with the duties of being the principle household automotive ought to significantly think about the Tasman, given its functionality, options, and SUV-like cabin.
In the X-Pro significantly, the inside is without doubt one of the finest in its class. Having a good bit in frequent with Kia’s range-topping Telluride SUV within the US, it doesn’t in any respect really feel prefer it’s a tarted-up business automobile. The high quality of the supplies and the design put it head and shoulders above most – if not all – opponents on sale right this moment.
The powertrain isn’t going to win you a lot kudos at a Sunday barbecue, nevertheless it’s a good engine that will get the job executed. It additionally has a confirmed historical past, which ought to depend for one thing, and falls underneath Kia’s lengthy guarantee – offering peace of thoughts for a few years.
Certainly, by the tip of our time with it, we’d softened to the controversial seems to be of the Kia Tasman. Though many received’t be capable of see previous its design, those that can might be rewarded with a superb ute that accomplishes quite a bit – and is proof there’s extra to a e-book than its cowl.
CarProfessional can prevent 1000’s on a brand new Kia Tasman. Click right here to get an excellent deal.
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MORE: 2026 Kia Tasman X-Pro evaluate: Long-term introduction
MORE: Explore the Kia Tasman showroom
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