Starting today, Kia has begun contracts for the Tasman, and they have also revealed the much-anticipated pricing. It appears that the vehicle will make a successful debut in the domestic premium pickup truck market with a more competitive price than expected.
The base trim, Dynamic, starts at 37.5 million KRW (approximately $28,200), the Adventure trim is priced at 41.1 million KRW (about $30,600), and the Extreme trim comes in at 44.9 million KRW (around $33,600). For the specialized off-road model, X-Pro, the price is set at 52.4 million KRW (approximately $39,300).
According to detailed data from Kia, the Tasman features a 2.5-liter turbo gasoline engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, delivering a maximum output of 281 horsepower and a peak torque of 43.0 kg.m. The combined fuel efficiency stands at approximately 8.6 km/L (20.3 mpg), which is impressive among pickup trucks priced between 30 and 40 million KRW (around $22,500 to $30,000). The vehicle optimizes ride comfort, shifting performance, and fuel efficiency.
The vehicle boasts towing capabilities of up to 3,500 kg (approximately 7,700 lbs), featuring a tow mode that adjusts the shifting pattern based on the towing weight. Additionally, the intake port is positioned inside the upper section of the side fender, allowing it to navigate through water depths of up to 800 mm (31.5 inches).
I personally have high expectations for the X-Pro model. Designed for off-road driving, it features a ground clearance that is 28 mm higher than the standard four-wheel-drive model and comes equipped with specialized all-terrain tires to ensure stable driving on rough terrain.
The 4WD system in the Kia Tasman automatically selects the appropriate driving mode based on AI judgment for various terrains, including sand, mud, and snow. It features an electronic locking differential (e-LD), a low-speed maintenance device called X-TREK, a terrain mode specifically for rocky landscapes, and a ground view monitor that displays the vehicle's underside on the infotainment screen.
Inside the vehicle, drivers can access various information, such as engine and transmission oil temperatures, through an off-road page displayed on the cluster and infotainment monitor. The X-Pro model comes with several exclusive specifications.
Furthermore, the vehicle features a panoramic wide display based on ccNC, a Harman Kardon audio system, a folding console table, and a dual-type wireless charging system. Notably, it incorporates sliding reclining seats in the second row, achieving one of the best space allocations in its class.
The second-row doors can open up to 80 degrees thanks to a wide-open hinge design, and a large 29-liter tray under the second-row seats enhances storage convenience.
In terms of driving convenience, the vehicle features smart cruise control based on steering wheel grip detection, navigation-based HDA, and various advanced driver assistance systems, including rear parking collision avoidance assistance and a forward monitoring warning camera.
Kia has implemented an aggressive pricing strategy, starting at 37.5 million KRW (about $28,200), along with programs to ease the initial purchase burden. For customers who purchase by June of this year, the "365 Light Installment" program allows them to pay only the interest for the first year, followed by equal principal and interest payments over the next two years. Additionally, customers who sign contracts within March will receive a deposit coupon worth 100,000 KRW (approximately $75) as part of the "Tasman Double Care Program."
The news about the Kia Tasman, which boasts a unique exterior design, outstanding product value, and competitive pricing, marks the start of its contract phase. We will provide further updates through official event sketches in the future.