2025 Kia Tasman prices revealed
Set to take on the likes of Toyota's HiLux and the Ford Ranger in the best-selling dual-cab ute segment, the new Kia Tasman carries a price tag expected to exceed $80,000 drive-away for top-grade models.
The new Tasman officially starts from $42,990 plus on-road costs in basic two-wheel-drive trim, rising to $49,990 plus on-road costs with four-wheel-drive.
Further up the range, well-equipped X-Line models start from $67,990 plus on-roads, while the top-of-the-line X-Pro starts from $74,990 plus on-road costs. Metallic paint adds $700 to the bill.
Kia Australia chief executive Damien Meredith says the Tasman is the brand's 'most anticipated model yet'.
'We are confident the input from Kia Australia at each stage of its development, along with its competitive value and versatility, will make it a very strong contender in the local market.'
But Kia fans on its Australian Facebook page have told the brand the car is too expensive.
One fan said 'the X-Pro's features are impressive, but the price point is a bit steep for my liking. I had expected Kia to be more competitive with their pricing to capture a larger share of the Australian market'.
Another replied that 'The Ranger and HiLux are dominating this price point and superior in almost every way. The Australian market is screaming for something different, and at a lower price. The Tasman could have been that option if priced reasonably. Now it's just in the same league as the Ranger with less power.'
Initially criticised for bold looks, the Tasman's styling appears to be warming with Kia fans who said 'when you see them in real life, the design and features grow on you. Its looks very robust'.
The Tasman is powered by a 2.2-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel engine similar to that found in the Kia Sorento and Hyundai Santa Fe.
The motor produces 154kW and 440Nm, which is less than what customers find in a HiLux or Ranger.
But Kia says the car is more than up to the job. Every Tasman has a payload of at least 1000kg (which is by no means guaranteed by rival brands) and is capable of towing 3.5 tonnes.
Better still, the Tasman comes as standard with an integrated electronic trailer brake controller for heavy-duty work.
The car's tray is capable of carrying an Australian-standard cargo pallet, and clever storage under the rear seat promises to win support from tradies.
Tech includes a 12.3-inch driver display, 5-inch climate control screen and 12.3-inch central display that put it toward the top of the class.
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