Unveiling the 2025 Kia Tasman Ute: A Bold Contender in the Dual-Cab Diesel Segment

The highly anticipated 2025 Kia Tasman ute has finally emerged from the shadows, captured in its showroom-bound bodywork, setting the stage for its Australian debut in mid-2025. Previous glimpses of the Tasman featured test 'mules' adorned with temporary bodywork borrowed from the Kia Mohave SUV, but the latest images, courtesy of a YouTube video from South Korean creator Woopa TV, showcase the ute in its final, bold form.

Design and Styling

The 2025 Kia Tasman makes a striking impression with its blocky and upright styling, positioning itself as a formidable competitor against the likes of the Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger. Notably taller than its rivals, the Tasman boasts large windows that contribute to its imposing presence. The heavy camouflage conceals a bluff front fascia, low-set headlights, and a substantial grille, with the Kia badge prominently positioned on the leading edge of the bonnet.

Black panelling atop flared wheel arches, a steep windscreen, and compact LED tail-lights add to the Tasman's distinctive aesthetic. The 265/65 R17 profile tires, with a 30.6-inch diameter, further differentiate it in size from competitors, offering a unique stance.

Features and Functionality

Visible features through the camouflage include leaf-spring rear suspension, a convenient step on the rear bumper for easy tray access, and intriguingly, space for a battery pack in the chassis, hinting at an electric variant set to debut in 2026. The four-wheel-drive mode selector with a '4A' setting suggests the Tasman's capability on both sealed and off-road surfaces, akin to models like the Ford Ranger and VW Amarok.

Inside, the four-wheel-drive mode selector stands out, presented in a conventional 'T-bar' design, distinguishing itself from the current trend of rotary dials or steering column-mounted stalks. The front seats, reminiscent of the Kia EV9 electric SUV, and distinctive rear-seat door handles add a touch of modernity to the interior.

Powertrain Possibilities

While the powertrain details for the diesel version remain uncertain, speculation points towards the potential use of Hyundai and Kia's 2.2-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine, known for its 148kW and 441Nm output in the Kia Sorento SUV. Another option on the table is the 204kW/588Nm 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder diesel from the Genesis GV80 luxury SUV. However, fitting the inline-six engine under the bonnet may pose a challenge.

Capability and Expectations

Regardless of the chosen engine, expectations are high for the Tasman's towing and payload capacity. Industry insiders predict a 3.5-tonne braked towing capacity and a one-tonne payload, positioning the Tasman as a robust and versatile workhorse.

Anticipation and Arrival

As the Tasman is set to be unveiled later this year, with production beginning in South Korea early next year and Australian arrivals expected by mid-2025, automotive enthusiasts and industry insiders alike eagerly await the official reveal. Australia's pivotal role in the vehicle's development and testing further underscores the Tasman's significance as a key player in the competitive dual-cab diesel segment. Stay tuned for more updates on this bold addition to Kia's lineup!