Could Kia Tasman be the Toyota Hilux-rival in India?
Kia has teased its inaugural entry into the pickup truck segment, potentially christened as the Tasman. A recent trailer released by Kia Australia has confirmed the imminent arrival of the carmaker’s utility vehicle, colloquially referred to as a UTE in the region.
Global Preview and Launch of Kia Tasman The Kia Tasman pickup truck has been spotted undergoing testing on numerous occasions in both South Korea and Sweden. Notably, one of these sightings occurred in snowy terrain alongside a Ford Ranger Raptor. While the Ranger Raptor is not available in India, it is speculated that the Tasman could emerge as a formidable competitor to the Toyota Hilux in the Indian market. Although an official launch date has not been confirmed yet, industry insiders anticipate the unveiling of the new Tasman later this year, with sales expected to commence in Australia by mid-2025.
Engine Specifications of Kia Tasman The initial lineup of the Kia Tasman is anticipated to feature diesel-powered variants, with an electric version possibly debuting a year or two later. It is speculated that the 4×4 Tasman could be equipped with a 2.2-liter turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine, a powertrain shared with models like the Kia Sorento, Carnival, and the Hyundai Santa Fe globally. The engine is expected to deliver approximately 200 horsepower and 450Nm of torque, with the pickup boasting robust underpinnings, as suggested by images showcasing leaf-spring rear suspension and ample ground clearance.