Kia has unveiled teaser images and videos of its highly anticipated new pickup truck, the Kia Tasman, which will make its global debut later this month. The teaser images showcase the Tasman’s robust and rugged design, highlighting its versatility and capability across various terrains. Alongside the photos, Kia released a teaser video emphasizing Tasman’s development through “relentless challenges,” building excitement for the vehicle’s launch.
The Tasman marks Kia’s first-ever pickup truck designed and developed entirely in-house. Its focus is on redefining traditional pickup standards. Kia promises advancements in design, space utilization, versatility, and safety, setting the Tasman apart from conventional pickups.
In preparation for the Tasman, Kia conducted an extensive development process over more than four years, including over 18,000 tests in 1,777 categories, such as off-road performance, durability, towing stability, and fording capability. Testing took place in diverse regions, including the U.S., Sweden, Australia, and the Middle East, to ensure the vehicle meets high performance and reliability standards.
Kia expects the Tasman to build on the off-road legacy of the Telluride SUV. While Kia previously produced the Brisa pickup, which was discontinued in 1981 and based on Japanese Mazda technology, the Tasman represents Kia’s first pickup truck developed using its own technology.
The Tasman will make its official global debut on October 29 at the Jeddah Motor Show in Saudi Arabia. Kia CEO Song Ho Sung will introduce the vehicle and reveal detailed specifications.
Kia plans to begin full-scale production of the Tasman at Kia Autoland in Hwaseong in early 2024. The pickup will first be launched in Kia’s domestic market, followed by key overseas markets, including Australia and the Middle East.