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● Kia's Australian division mentions the potential for developing a frame SUV based on the Tasman’s success, which could debut within three years.
● A serious off-road SUV targeting the Ford Everest and Toyota Prado... Will Kia fill the gap?
● The launch is expected in 2027... Kia's frame SUV strategy aims at the global market.
"It depends on the success of the Tasman"... Kia's Australian division hints at the possibility of launching a traditional frame SUV.
"It depends on the success of the Tasman"... Kia's Australian division hints at the possibility of launching a traditional frame SUV.
Hello.
I am Uniji (Yuka Post), an automotive influencer.
Reports indicate that Kia is considering developing a new traditional SUV that surpasses the Sorento. The launch of a frame body-based SUV will likely depend on the success of the mid-size pickup truck, Tasman. This news, first reported in Australia, has sparked expectations that Kia is preparing a genuine off-roader that can compete with the Ford Everest and Toyota Land Cruiser Prado.
According to the Australian automotive media outlet 'Carsales', Kia Australia's chief engineer for driving performance stated, "An SUV based on the Tasman could emerge within three years." However, the marketing director expressed caution, saying, "First, the Tasman must succeed. That will open the door." If the vehicle launches, it could debut as early as 2027, sharing the Tasman platform to ensure off-road capability and durability.
SUV based on the Tasman? A signal for entering the traditional off-roader market.
SUV based on the Tasman? A signal for entering the traditional off-roader market.
Kia’s Tasman is set for an official launch in Australia in July 2025, challenging the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger, which dominate the mid-size pickup market. If the Tasman receives a positive market response, the potential for developing a traditional SUV using the same platform becomes realistic.
The Tasman features a body-on-frame structure, making it well-suited as a basis for an off-road SUV. This suggests that it could target a market similar to the Ford Bronco.
While Kia has not officially started development, if they do embark on a new vehicle, it could appear by 2028. The initial launch will likely focus on regions with high demand for frame SUVs, such as Australia, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East.
Currently, Kia does not have a traditional off-roader SUV in its domestic or international lineup. The Mohave is merely a rear-wheel-drive large SUV and does not focus on off-road performance based on a frame structure.
What are the specs of the Tasman? Its competitive configuration draws attention.
What are the specs of the Tasman? Its competitive configuration draws attention.
The Tasman, set to launch in Australia, features a 2.2-liter four-cylinder turbo diesel engine (207 horsepower, 325 lb-ft of torque), paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and available in rear-wheel or all-wheel drive. The starting price for the base model is AUD 42,990 (approximately USD 27,000), while the top-tier X-Pro 4x4 model is priced at AUD 74,990 (approximately USD 48,000).
The base model comes equipped with steel wheels, LED headlights, and a trailer brake controller, along with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and infotainment display. The higher trim, X-Pro, includes premium features like Harman Kardon audio, heated and ventilated seats, and a panoramic sunroof.
If Kia launches an SUV based on the Tasman, it will likely face direct competition from the Ford Everest and Toyota Prado. The Ford Everest, built on the Ford Ranger platform, balances off-road performance, interior space, and advanced technology. The Toyota Prado, a mid-size SUV model of the Land Cruiser, has built a reputation for high reliability and durability in the global off-road market over the years.
In direct comparison with these models, Kia could showcase strengths in pricing, modern infotainment, and style. If they adopt a strategy focused on higher trims, they may find significant success in markets like the Middle East and Oceania.
The possibility of Kia launching an SUV based on the Tasman is still in its early stages, but it presents an attractive scenario aimed at markets with high demand for frame SUVs, such as Australia, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East. The success of the Tasman may hold the "key" to Kia's entry into the traditional off-roader SUV segment. The industry is closely watching Kia's future moves, and I appreciate your valuable comments. Wishing you all a joyful and happy day, I conclude this post.
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