Latest news with #KiaAustralia
West Australian
5 days ago
- Automotive
- West Australian
2026 Kia Sportage price and specs: More tech, more hybrids, higher prices
Pricing and specifications for the facelifted 2026 Kia Sportage have been announced for Australia as first vehicles arrive in showrooms, and the upgraded mid-size SUV lineup brings more more hybrid variants, more standard equipment, and the introduction of Kia Connect services, accompanied by price increases of up to $4070. As before, the Sportage will be offered in S, SX, SX+ and GT-Line trim levels, with no less than five different drivetrain variants available. The six-speed manual is dead, and 1.6T AWD variants swap out their dual-clutch automatic transmission for an eight-speed torque converter unit. Further, hybrid (HEV) versions of the SX and GT-Line are now available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) form, taking the total number of hybrid options to four. Revised design details, new alloy wheel options and increased tech levels round out the highlights. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now . Pricing for the MY26 Kia Sportage starts from $37,990 before on-road costs, which is $5000 higher than the old base manual and $3000 more than the outgoing entry-level S automatic. These price rises are somewhat offset by enhanced specification levels, as detailed further down. Prices are up across the board, by at least $500 and an average of around $3000 depending on the model variant. Kia has confirmed a four-strong engine lineup and changes like a new eight-speed auto for the 1.6T and the availability of AWD for the 1.6T Hybrid (HEV), though further details like outputs (if changed) and fuel consumption are still to be confirmed. *Figures quoted are for pre-facelift vehicles Kia Australia hasn't confirmed any changes to the Sportage's dimensions – see below for pre-facelift figures. The updated Kia Sportage, like the Korean brand's other models, will be covered by a seven-year, unlimited-kilometre new vehicle warranty. Hybrid vehicles are also subject to a seven-year/150,000km high-voltage battery and component warranty. Kia Australia offers seven years of capped-price servicing across its lineup, though finer details around intervals and pricing for the updated Sportage range are still to be confirmed. For reference, the 2.0L petrol and turbo-diesel models in the pre-facelifted range have 12-month/15,000km intervals, while the turbocharged 1.6L petrol and HEV versions have shorter 10,000km distance intervals. The updated Kia Sportage is expected to retain its five-star ANCAP safety rating, based on 2022 Euro NCAP tests. While there have been some feature upgrades – such as a more advanced semi-autonomous Highway Driving Assist (HDA) system from SX+ level and up – the fundamentals appear to be the largely same. Standard safety equipment includes: SX+ adds: GT-Line adds: Kia has confirmed preliminary specifications across the range, with each trim level scoring new equipment. 2025 Kia Sportage S equipment highlights: Sportage SX adds: Sportage SX+ adds: Sportage GT-Line adds: Further details will be confirmed at the Australian media launch next week. Two new paint options join the Sportage's palette, while the outgoing model's Dawning Red has been discontinued. Standard: $NCO Premium paint: $TBC MORE: Everything Kia Sportage
Perth Now
5 days ago
- Automotive
- Perth Now
2026 Kia Sportage price and specs: More tech, more hybrids, higher prices
Pricing and specifications for the facelifted 2026 Kia Sportage have been announced for Australia as first vehicles arrive in showrooms, and the upgraded mid-size SUV lineup brings more more hybrid variants, more standard equipment, and the introduction of Kia Connect services, accompanied by price increases of up to $4070. As before, the Sportage will be offered in S, SX, SX+ and GT-Line trim levels, with no less than five different drivetrain variants available. The six-speed manual is dead, and 1.6T AWD variants swap out their dual-clutch automatic transmission for an eight-speed torque converter unit. Further, hybrid (HEV) versions of the SX and GT-Line are now available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) form, taking the total number of hybrid options to four. Revised design details, new alloy wheel options and increased tech levels round out the highlights. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. 2026 Kia Sportage SX 1.6T HEV AWD Credit: CarExpert Pricing for the MY26 Kia Sportage starts from $37,990 before on-road costs, which is $5000 higher than the old base manual and $3000 more than the outgoing entry-level S automatic. These price rises are somewhat offset by enhanced specification levels, as detailed further down. Prices are up across the board, by at least $500 and an average of around $3000 depending on the model variant. Supplied Credit: CarExpert Kia has confirmed a four-strong engine lineup and changes like a new eight-speed auto for the 1.6T and the availability of AWD for the 1.6T Hybrid (HEV), though further details like outputs (if changed) and fuel consumption are still to be confirmed. Supplied Credit: CarExpert *Figures quoted are for pre-facelift vehicles Kia Australia hasn't confirmed any changes to the Sportage's dimensions – see below for pre-facelift figures. Supplied Credit: CarExpert The updated Kia Sportage, like the Korean brand's other models, will be covered by a seven-year, unlimited-kilometre new vehicle warranty. Hybrid vehicles are also subject to a seven-year/150,000km high-voltage battery and component warranty. Supplied Credit: CarExpert Kia Australia offers seven years of capped-price servicing across its lineup, though finer details around intervals and pricing for the updated Sportage range are still to be confirmed. For reference, the 2.0L petrol and turbo-diesel models in the pre-facelifted range have 12-month/15,000km intervals, while the turbocharged 1.6L petrol and HEV versions have shorter 10,000km distance intervals. The updated Kia Sportage is expected to retain its five-star ANCAP safety rating, based on 2022 Euro NCAP tests. Supplied Credit: CarExpert While there have been some feature upgrades – such as a more advanced semi-autonomous Highway Driving Assist (HDA) system from SX+ level and up – the fundamentals appear to be the largely same. Standard safety equipment includes: 7 airbags incl. front-centre Smart Cruise Control 2 – SCC 2 (NEW) Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) Blind-spot assist Intelligent speed limit assist Lane Following Assist (centring) Lane-keep assist Multi Collision Brake Rear cross-traffic assist Parking sensors – front (NEW), rear Reversing camera Tyre pressure monitor SX+ adds: Highway Driving Assist (NEW) GT-Line adds: AEB – reverse Blind Spot View Monitor Surround View Monitor – 360 cameras Kia has confirmed preliminary specifications across the range, with each trim level scoring new equipment. SX 1.6T HEV AWD Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert 2025 Kia Sportage S equipment highlights: Kia Connect Services (NEW) 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment – ccNC Lite (NEW) Over the air (OTA) updates (NEW) 17-inch alloy wheels Full-size alloy spare wheel Cloth upholstery Electronic park brake incl. Auto Hold Leather steering wheel PVC shift selector Sportage SX adds: 12.3-inch navigation system – ccNC (NEW) 18-inch alloy wheels Rain-sensing wipers 2-way lumbar support – driver Premium shift selector – Petrol, Diesel Dial-type shift selector – HEV Remote folding second-row seats Dual-zone climate control Temporary spare wheel – HEV Sportage SX+ adds: Wireless phone charger (NEW) Heated steering wheel (NEW) 19-inch alloy wheels – Petrol, Diesel Power driver seat Heated front seats Harman Kardon premium audio Power tailgate Rear privacy glass Artificial leather upholstery Sportage GT-Line adds: Head-up display (NEW) Dynamic welcome light – front, rear (NEW) Heated steering wheel (NEW for Petrol, Diesel) 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster Memory function – driver seat Power front passenger seat Ventilated front seats Ambient mood lighting Panoramic sunroof LED interior lighting Alloy sports pedals Dial-type shift selector – all variants Further details will be confirmed at the Australian media launch next week. Two new paint options join the Sportage's palette, while the outgoing model's Dawning Red has been discontinued. Supplied Credit: CarExpert Standard: $NCO Premium paint: $TBC Heritage Blue (NEW) Wolf Grey (NEW) Steel Grey Gravity Grey Fusion Black Vesta Blue Snow White Pearl – SX+, GT-Line only Jungle Wood Green – SX+, GT-Line only MORE: Everything Kia Sportage
7NEWS
5 days ago
- Automotive
- 7NEWS
2026 Kia Sportage price and specs: More tech, more hybrids, higher prices
Pricing and specifications for the facelifted 2026 Kia Sportage have been announced for Australia as first vehicles arrive in showrooms, and the upgraded mid-size SUV lineup brings more more hybrid variants, more standard equipment, and the introduction of Kia Connect services, accompanied by price increases of up to $4070. As before, the Sportage will be offered in S, SX, SX+ and GT-Line trim levels, with no less than five different drivetrain variants available. The six-speed manual is dead, and 1.6T AWD variants swap out their dual-clutch automatic transmission for an eight-speed torque converter unit. Further, hybrid (HEV) versions of the SX and GT-Line are now available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) form, taking the total number of hybrid options to four. Revised design details, new alloy wheel options and increased tech levels round out the highlights. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Pricing for the MY26 Kia Sportage starts from $37,990 before on-road costs, which is $5000 higher than the old base manual and $3000 more than the outgoing entry-level S automatic. These price rises are somewhat offset by enhanced specification levels, as detailed further down. Pricing Prices are up across the board, by at least $500 and an average of around $3000 depending on the model variant. Drivetrains and Efficiency Kia has confirmed a four-strong engine lineup and changes like a new eight-speed auto for the 1.6T and the availability of AWD for the 1.6T Hybrid (HEV), though further details like outputs (if changed) and fuel consumption are still to be confirmed. *Figures quoted are for pre-facelift vehicles Dimensions Kia Australia hasn't confirmed any changes to the Sportage's dimensions – see below for pre-facelift figures. Servicing and Warranty The updated Kia Sportage, like the Korean brand's other models, will be covered by a seven-year, unlimited-kilometre new vehicle warranty. Hybrid vehicles are also subject to a seven-year/150,000km high-voltage battery and component warranty. Kia Australia offers seven years of capped-price servicing across its lineup, though finer details around intervals and pricing for the updated Sportage range are still to be confirmed. For reference, the 2.0L petrol and turbo-diesel models in the pre-facelifted range have 12-month/15,000km intervals, while the turbocharged 1.6L petrol and HEV versions have shorter 10,000km distance intervals. Safety The updated Kia Sportage is expected to retain its five-star ANCAP safety rating, based on 2022 Euro NCAP tests. While there have been some feature upgrades – such as a more advanced semi-autonomous Highway Driving Assist (HDA) system from SX+ level and up – the fundamentals appear to be the largely same. Standard safety equipment includes: 7 airbags incl. front-centre Smart Cruise Control 2 – SCC 2 (NEW) Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) Blind-spot assist Intelligent speed limit assist Lane Following Assist (centring) Lane-keep assist Multi Collision Brake Rear cross-traffic assist Parking sensors – front (NEW), rear Reversing camera Tyre pressure monitor SX+ adds: Highway Driving Assist (NEW) GT-Line adds: AEB – reverse Blind Spot View Monitor Surround View Monitor – 360 cameras Standard Equipment Kia has confirmed preliminary specifications across the range, with each trim level scoring new equipment. 2025 Kia Sportage S equipment highlights: Kia Connect Services (NEW) 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment – ccNC Lite (NEW) Over the air (OTA) updates (NEW) 17-inch alloy wheels Full-size alloy spare wheel Cloth upholstery Electronic park brake incl. Auto Hold Leather steering wheel PVC shift selector Sportage SX adds: 12.3-inch navigation system – ccNC (NEW) 18-inch alloy wheels Rain-sensing wipers 2-way lumbar support – driver Premium shift selector – Petrol, Diesel Dial-type shift selector – HEV Remote folding second-row seats Dual-zone climate control Temporary spare wheel – HEV Sportage SX+ adds: Wireless phone charger (NEW) Heated steering wheel (NEW) 19-inch alloy wheels – Petrol, Diesel Power driver seat Heated front seats Harman Kardon premium audio Power tailgate Rear privacy glass Artificial leather upholstery Sportage GT-Line adds: Head-up display (NEW) Dynamic welcome light – front, rear (NEW) Heated steering wheel (NEW for Petrol, Diesel) 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster Memory function – driver seat Power front passenger seat Ventilated front seats Ambient mood lighting Panoramic sunroof LED interior lighting Alloy sports pedals Dial-type shift selector – all variants Further details will be confirmed at the Australian media launch next week. Colours Two new paint options join the Sportage's palette, while the outgoing model's Dawning Red has been discontinued. Standard: $NCO Clear White Premium paint: $TBC Heritage Blue (NEW) Wolf Grey (NEW) Steel Grey Gravity Grey Fusion Black Vesta Blue Snow White Pearl – SX+, GT-Line only Jungle Wood Green – SX+, GT-Line only
The Advertiser
6 days ago
- Automotive
- The Advertiser
2026 Kia Sportage price and specs: More tech, more hybrids, higher prices
Pricing and specifications for the facelifted 2026 Kia Sportage have been announced for Australia as first vehicles arrive in showrooms, and the upgraded mid-size SUV lineup brings more more hybrid variants, more standard equipment, and the introduction of Kia Connect services, accompanied by price increases of up to $4070. As before, the Sportage will be offered in S, SX, SX+ and GT-Line trim levels, with no less than five different drivetrain variants available. The six-speed manual is dead, and 1.6T AWD variants swap out their dual-clutch automatic transmission for an eight-speed torque converter unit. Further, hybrid (HEV) versions of the SX and GT-Line are now available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) form, taking the total number of hybrid options to four. Revised design details, new alloy wheel options and increased tech levels round out the highlights. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Pricing for the MY26 Kia Sportage starts from $37,990 before on-road costs, which is $5000 higher than the old base manual and $3000 more than the outgoing entry-level S automatic. These price rises are somewhat offset by enhanced specification levels, as detailed further down. Prices are up across the board, by at least $500 and an average of around $3000 depending on the model variant. Kia has confirmed a four-strong engine lineup and changes like a new eight-speed auto for the 1.6T and the availability of AWD for the 1.6T Hybrid (HEV), though further details like outputs (if changed) and fuel consumption are still to be confirmed. *Figures quoted are for pre-facelift vehicles Kia Australia hasn't confirmed any changes to the Sportage's dimensions – see below for pre-facelift figures. The updated Kia Sportage, like the Korean brand's other models, will be covered by a seven-year, unlimited-kilometre new vehicle warranty. Hybrid vehicles are also subject to a seven-year/150,000km high-voltage battery and component warranty. Kia Australia offers seven years of capped-price servicing across its lineup, though finer details around intervals and pricing for the updated Sportage range are still to be confirmed. For reference, the 2.0L petrol and turbo-diesel models in the pre-facelifted range have 12-month/15,000km intervals, while the turbocharged 1.6L petrol and HEV versions have shorter 10,000km distance intervals. The updated Kia Sportage is expected to retain its five-star ANCAP safety rating, based on 2022 Euro NCAP tests. While there have been some feature upgrades – such as a more advanced semi-autonomous Highway Driving Assist (HDA) system from SX+ level and up – the fundamentals appear to be the largely same. Standard safety equipment includes: SX+ adds: GT-Line adds: Kia has confirmed preliminary specifications across the range, with each trim level scoring new equipment. 2025 Kia Sportage S equipment highlights: Sportage SX adds: Sportage SX+ adds: Sportage GT-Line adds: Further details will be confirmed at the Australian media launch next week. Two new paint options join the Sportage's palette, while the outgoing model's Dawning Red has been discontinued. Standard: $NCO Premium paint: $TBC MORE: Everything Kia Sportage Content originally sourced from: Pricing and specifications for the facelifted 2026 Kia Sportage have been announced for Australia as first vehicles arrive in showrooms, and the upgraded mid-size SUV lineup brings more more hybrid variants, more standard equipment, and the introduction of Kia Connect services, accompanied by price increases of up to $4070. As before, the Sportage will be offered in S, SX, SX+ and GT-Line trim levels, with no less than five different drivetrain variants available. The six-speed manual is dead, and 1.6T AWD variants swap out their dual-clutch automatic transmission for an eight-speed torque converter unit. Further, hybrid (HEV) versions of the SX and GT-Line are now available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) form, taking the total number of hybrid options to four. Revised design details, new alloy wheel options and increased tech levels round out the highlights. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Pricing for the MY26 Kia Sportage starts from $37,990 before on-road costs, which is $5000 higher than the old base manual and $3000 more than the outgoing entry-level S automatic. These price rises are somewhat offset by enhanced specification levels, as detailed further down. Prices are up across the board, by at least $500 and an average of around $3000 depending on the model variant. Kia has confirmed a four-strong engine lineup and changes like a new eight-speed auto for the 1.6T and the availability of AWD for the 1.6T Hybrid (HEV), though further details like outputs (if changed) and fuel consumption are still to be confirmed. *Figures quoted are for pre-facelift vehicles Kia Australia hasn't confirmed any changes to the Sportage's dimensions – see below for pre-facelift figures. The updated Kia Sportage, like the Korean brand's other models, will be covered by a seven-year, unlimited-kilometre new vehicle warranty. Hybrid vehicles are also subject to a seven-year/150,000km high-voltage battery and component warranty. Kia Australia offers seven years of capped-price servicing across its lineup, though finer details around intervals and pricing for the updated Sportage range are still to be confirmed. For reference, the 2.0L petrol and turbo-diesel models in the pre-facelifted range have 12-month/15,000km intervals, while the turbocharged 1.6L petrol and HEV versions have shorter 10,000km distance intervals. The updated Kia Sportage is expected to retain its five-star ANCAP safety rating, based on 2022 Euro NCAP tests. While there have been some feature upgrades – such as a more advanced semi-autonomous Highway Driving Assist (HDA) system from SX+ level and up – the fundamentals appear to be the largely same. Standard safety equipment includes: SX+ adds: GT-Line adds: Kia has confirmed preliminary specifications across the range, with each trim level scoring new equipment. 2025 Kia Sportage S equipment highlights: Sportage SX adds: Sportage SX+ adds: Sportage GT-Line adds: Further details will be confirmed at the Australian media launch next week. Two new paint options join the Sportage's palette, while the outgoing model's Dawning Red has been discontinued. Standard: $NCO Premium paint: $TBC MORE: Everything Kia Sportage Content originally sourced from: Pricing and specifications for the facelifted 2026 Kia Sportage have been announced for Australia as first vehicles arrive in showrooms, and the upgraded mid-size SUV lineup brings more more hybrid variants, more standard equipment, and the introduction of Kia Connect services, accompanied by price increases of up to $4070. As before, the Sportage will be offered in S, SX, SX+ and GT-Line trim levels, with no less than five different drivetrain variants available. The six-speed manual is dead, and 1.6T AWD variants swap out their dual-clutch automatic transmission for an eight-speed torque converter unit. Further, hybrid (HEV) versions of the SX and GT-Line are now available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) form, taking the total number of hybrid options to four. Revised design details, new alloy wheel options and increased tech levels round out the highlights. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Pricing for the MY26 Kia Sportage starts from $37,990 before on-road costs, which is $5000 higher than the old base manual and $3000 more than the outgoing entry-level S automatic. These price rises are somewhat offset by enhanced specification levels, as detailed further down. Prices are up across the board, by at least $500 and an average of around $3000 depending on the model variant. Kia has confirmed a four-strong engine lineup and changes like a new eight-speed auto for the 1.6T and the availability of AWD for the 1.6T Hybrid (HEV), though further details like outputs (if changed) and fuel consumption are still to be confirmed. *Figures quoted are for pre-facelift vehicles Kia Australia hasn't confirmed any changes to the Sportage's dimensions – see below for pre-facelift figures. The updated Kia Sportage, like the Korean brand's other models, will be covered by a seven-year, unlimited-kilometre new vehicle warranty. Hybrid vehicles are also subject to a seven-year/150,000km high-voltage battery and component warranty. Kia Australia offers seven years of capped-price servicing across its lineup, though finer details around intervals and pricing for the updated Sportage range are still to be confirmed. For reference, the 2.0L petrol and turbo-diesel models in the pre-facelifted range have 12-month/15,000km intervals, while the turbocharged 1.6L petrol and HEV versions have shorter 10,000km distance intervals. The updated Kia Sportage is expected to retain its five-star ANCAP safety rating, based on 2022 Euro NCAP tests. While there have been some feature upgrades – such as a more advanced semi-autonomous Highway Driving Assist (HDA) system from SX+ level and up – the fundamentals appear to be the largely same. Standard safety equipment includes: SX+ adds: GT-Line adds: Kia has confirmed preliminary specifications across the range, with each trim level scoring new equipment. 2025 Kia Sportage S equipment highlights: Sportage SX adds: Sportage SX+ adds: Sportage GT-Line adds: Further details will be confirmed at the Australian media launch next week. Two new paint options join the Sportage's palette, while the outgoing model's Dawning Red has been discontinued. Standard: $NCO Premium paint: $TBC MORE: Everything Kia Sportage Content originally sourced from: Pricing and specifications for the facelifted 2026 Kia Sportage have been announced for Australia as first vehicles arrive in showrooms, and the upgraded mid-size SUV lineup brings more more hybrid variants, more standard equipment, and the introduction of Kia Connect services, accompanied by price increases of up to $4070. As before, the Sportage will be offered in S, SX, SX+ and GT-Line trim levels, with no less than five different drivetrain variants available. The six-speed manual is dead, and 1.6T AWD variants swap out their dual-clutch automatic transmission for an eight-speed torque converter unit. Further, hybrid (HEV) versions of the SX and GT-Line are now available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) form, taking the total number of hybrid options to four. Revised design details, new alloy wheel options and increased tech levels round out the highlights. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Pricing for the MY26 Kia Sportage starts from $37,990 before on-road costs, which is $5000 higher than the old base manual and $3000 more than the outgoing entry-level S automatic. These price rises are somewhat offset by enhanced specification levels, as detailed further down. Prices are up across the board, by at least $500 and an average of around $3000 depending on the model variant. Kia has confirmed a four-strong engine lineup and changes like a new eight-speed auto for the 1.6T and the availability of AWD for the 1.6T Hybrid (HEV), though further details like outputs (if changed) and fuel consumption are still to be confirmed. *Figures quoted are for pre-facelift vehicles Kia Australia hasn't confirmed any changes to the Sportage's dimensions – see below for pre-facelift figures. The updated Kia Sportage, like the Korean brand's other models, will be covered by a seven-year, unlimited-kilometre new vehicle warranty. Hybrid vehicles are also subject to a seven-year/150,000km high-voltage battery and component warranty. Kia Australia offers seven years of capped-price servicing across its lineup, though finer details around intervals and pricing for the updated Sportage range are still to be confirmed. For reference, the 2.0L petrol and turbo-diesel models in the pre-facelifted range have 12-month/15,000km intervals, while the turbocharged 1.6L petrol and HEV versions have shorter 10,000km distance intervals. The updated Kia Sportage is expected to retain its five-star ANCAP safety rating, based on 2022 Euro NCAP tests. While there have been some feature upgrades – such as a more advanced semi-autonomous Highway Driving Assist (HDA) system from SX+ level and up – the fundamentals appear to be the largely same. Standard safety equipment includes: SX+ adds: GT-Line adds: Kia has confirmed preliminary specifications across the range, with each trim level scoring new equipment. 2025 Kia Sportage S equipment highlights: Sportage SX adds: Sportage SX+ adds: Sportage GT-Line adds: Further details will be confirmed at the Australian media launch next week. Two new paint options join the Sportage's palette, while the outgoing model's Dawning Red has been discontinued. Standard: $NCO Premium paint: $TBC MORE: Everything Kia Sportage Content originally sourced from:
The Advertiser
09-05-2025
- Automotive
- The Advertiser
Tougher Kia Tasman Weekender concept ute could preview future update
The Kia Tasman Weekender (WKNDR) Concept made headlines at this year's Seoul motor show and, while it hasn't been confirmed for production as yet, it could preview future design updates for the Korean's brand's first ute. Speaking with CarExpert at a local pre-production drive of the Tasman X-Pro this week, Kia Australia's general manager for product planning Roland Rivero said the polarising design of the launch vehicle is here to stay for the time being. "At the moment, to be honest – it's just a concept. It's a concept for enhancement of the brand… [to] further promote the Tasman," Mr Rivero said. "Across the lifecycle, [there is] plenty of opportunity to enhance [the Tasman] and, who knows, the facelift might draw inspiration from it, I don't know." Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Revealed at the Seoul show last month, the Kia Tasman Weekender concept – or WKNDR, as it was badged – is kitted out with hardcore off-road equipment including larger front and rear bumpers housing recovery points, all-terrain tyres, and sturdy-looking side steps. There's also a chunky roof rack that leads into a large rear sailplane, plus what appear to be dual winches and a sizeable storage box above the rear tray. It all previews what could be possible in the realm of heavy-duty genuine accessories for the polarising new Korean dual-cab. One of the other key changes for the Tasman WKNDR is the use of body colour for its controversial horizontal wheel-arches, which makes them appear less prominent than the dull black plastic material for which the production model attracted so much criticism. The Weekender is finished in a matte beige paint, which closely resembles the Tan Beige colour available for the production-spec Tasman – also reminiscent of the Toyota LandCruiser 79 Series' iconic Sandy Taupe. It's augmented by lime green accents on the front and rear bumpers, as well as tie-down straps attached to the side of the Tasman's bed. All of the chunky accessories, including the lower portion of the bed and cabin, are finished in matte grey. Kia Australia has committed to making a range of genuine accessories available from the Tasman's market launch in July – Mr Rivero indicated around 40 items will be available via dealers from the get-go. The Korean brand's local arm has collaborated with local suppliers like EGR Auto and Triple M for its catalogue of Tasman add-ons, which are said to include everything from bull bars, canopies, trays and side steps. Mr Rivero confirmed that numerous variations of each accessory will also be available to suit different Tasman variants as well as customer needs – think standard versus heavy-duty, as well as Single versus Double Cab, and Pickup versus Cab Chassis. Kia offers a number of wild and wacky extras for the Tasman in the Korean domestic market, but Mr Rivero said these options aren't locked in for Australia at the moment, largely due to the cost from factory. Do you want to see a production version of the Tasman Weekender Concept? Sound off in the comments! MORE: Beefy new Kia Tasman concept previews hardcore off-road gearMORE: Everything Kia Tasman Content originally sourced from: The Kia Tasman Weekender (WKNDR) Concept made headlines at this year's Seoul motor show and, while it hasn't been confirmed for production as yet, it could preview future design updates for the Korean's brand's first ute. Speaking with CarExpert at a local pre-production drive of the Tasman X-Pro this week, Kia Australia's general manager for product planning Roland Rivero said the polarising design of the launch vehicle is here to stay for the time being. "At the moment, to be honest – it's just a concept. It's a concept for enhancement of the brand… [to] further promote the Tasman," Mr Rivero said. "Across the lifecycle, [there is] plenty of opportunity to enhance [the Tasman] and, who knows, the facelift might draw inspiration from it, I don't know." Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Revealed at the Seoul show last month, the Kia Tasman Weekender concept – or WKNDR, as it was badged – is kitted out with hardcore off-road equipment including larger front and rear bumpers housing recovery points, all-terrain tyres, and sturdy-looking side steps. There's also a chunky roof rack that leads into a large rear sailplane, plus what appear to be dual winches and a sizeable storage box above the rear tray. It all previews what could be possible in the realm of heavy-duty genuine accessories for the polarising new Korean dual-cab. One of the other key changes for the Tasman WKNDR is the use of body colour for its controversial horizontal wheel-arches, which makes them appear less prominent than the dull black plastic material for which the production model attracted so much criticism. The Weekender is finished in a matte beige paint, which closely resembles the Tan Beige colour available for the production-spec Tasman – also reminiscent of the Toyota LandCruiser 79 Series' iconic Sandy Taupe. It's augmented by lime green accents on the front and rear bumpers, as well as tie-down straps attached to the side of the Tasman's bed. All of the chunky accessories, including the lower portion of the bed and cabin, are finished in matte grey. Kia Australia has committed to making a range of genuine accessories available from the Tasman's market launch in July – Mr Rivero indicated around 40 items will be available via dealers from the get-go. The Korean brand's local arm has collaborated with local suppliers like EGR Auto and Triple M for its catalogue of Tasman add-ons, which are said to include everything from bull bars, canopies, trays and side steps. Mr Rivero confirmed that numerous variations of each accessory will also be available to suit different Tasman variants as well as customer needs – think standard versus heavy-duty, as well as Single versus Double Cab, and Pickup versus Cab Chassis. Kia offers a number of wild and wacky extras for the Tasman in the Korean domestic market, but Mr Rivero said these options aren't locked in for Australia at the moment, largely due to the cost from factory. Do you want to see a production version of the Tasman Weekender Concept? Sound off in the comments! MORE: Beefy new Kia Tasman concept previews hardcore off-road gearMORE: Everything Kia Tasman Content originally sourced from: The Kia Tasman Weekender (WKNDR) Concept made headlines at this year's Seoul motor show and, while it hasn't been confirmed for production as yet, it could preview future design updates for the Korean's brand's first ute. Speaking with CarExpert at a local pre-production drive of the Tasman X-Pro this week, Kia Australia's general manager for product planning Roland Rivero said the polarising design of the launch vehicle is here to stay for the time being. "At the moment, to be honest – it's just a concept. It's a concept for enhancement of the brand… [to] further promote the Tasman," Mr Rivero said. "Across the lifecycle, [there is] plenty of opportunity to enhance [the Tasman] and, who knows, the facelift might draw inspiration from it, I don't know." Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Revealed at the Seoul show last month, the Kia Tasman Weekender concept – or WKNDR, as it was badged – is kitted out with hardcore off-road equipment including larger front and rear bumpers housing recovery points, all-terrain tyres, and sturdy-looking side steps. There's also a chunky roof rack that leads into a large rear sailplane, plus what appear to be dual winches and a sizeable storage box above the rear tray. It all previews what could be possible in the realm of heavy-duty genuine accessories for the polarising new Korean dual-cab. One of the other key changes for the Tasman WKNDR is the use of body colour for its controversial horizontal wheel-arches, which makes them appear less prominent than the dull black plastic material for which the production model attracted so much criticism. The Weekender is finished in a matte beige paint, which closely resembles the Tan Beige colour available for the production-spec Tasman – also reminiscent of the Toyota LandCruiser 79 Series' iconic Sandy Taupe. It's augmented by lime green accents on the front and rear bumpers, as well as tie-down straps attached to the side of the Tasman's bed. All of the chunky accessories, including the lower portion of the bed and cabin, are finished in matte grey. Kia Australia has committed to making a range of genuine accessories available from the Tasman's market launch in July – Mr Rivero indicated around 40 items will be available via dealers from the get-go. The Korean brand's local arm has collaborated with local suppliers like EGR Auto and Triple M for its catalogue of Tasman add-ons, which are said to include everything from bull bars, canopies, trays and side steps. Mr Rivero confirmed that numerous variations of each accessory will also be available to suit different Tasman variants as well as customer needs – think standard versus heavy-duty, as well as Single versus Double Cab, and Pickup versus Cab Chassis. Kia offers a number of wild and wacky extras for the Tasman in the Korean domestic market, but Mr Rivero said these options aren't locked in for Australia at the moment, largely due to the cost from factory. Do you want to see a production version of the Tasman Weekender Concept? Sound off in the comments! MORE: Beefy new Kia Tasman concept previews hardcore off-road gearMORE: Everything Kia Tasman Content originally sourced from: The Kia Tasman Weekender (WKNDR) Concept made headlines at this year's Seoul motor show and, while it hasn't been confirmed for production as yet, it could preview future design updates for the Korean's brand's first ute. Speaking with CarExpert at a local pre-production drive of the Tasman X-Pro this week, Kia Australia's general manager for product planning Roland Rivero said the polarising design of the launch vehicle is here to stay for the time being. "At the moment, to be honest – it's just a concept. It's a concept for enhancement of the brand… [to] further promote the Tasman," Mr Rivero said. "Across the lifecycle, [there is] plenty of opportunity to enhance [the Tasman] and, who knows, the facelift might draw inspiration from it, I don't know." Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Revealed at the Seoul show last month, the Kia Tasman Weekender concept – or WKNDR, as it was badged – is kitted out with hardcore off-road equipment including larger front and rear bumpers housing recovery points, all-terrain tyres, and sturdy-looking side steps. There's also a chunky roof rack that leads into a large rear sailplane, plus what appear to be dual winches and a sizeable storage box above the rear tray. It all previews what could be possible in the realm of heavy-duty genuine accessories for the polarising new Korean dual-cab. One of the other key changes for the Tasman WKNDR is the use of body colour for its controversial horizontal wheel-arches, which makes them appear less prominent than the dull black plastic material for which the production model attracted so much criticism. The Weekender is finished in a matte beige paint, which closely resembles the Tan Beige colour available for the production-spec Tasman – also reminiscent of the Toyota LandCruiser 79 Series' iconic Sandy Taupe. It's augmented by lime green accents on the front and rear bumpers, as well as tie-down straps attached to the side of the Tasman's bed. All of the chunky accessories, including the lower portion of the bed and cabin, are finished in matte grey. Kia Australia has committed to making a range of genuine accessories available from the Tasman's market launch in July – Mr Rivero indicated around 40 items will be available via dealers from the get-go. The Korean brand's local arm has collaborated with local suppliers like EGR Auto and Triple M for its catalogue of Tasman add-ons, which are said to include everything from bull bars, canopies, trays and side steps. Mr Rivero confirmed that numerous variations of each accessory will also be available to suit different Tasman variants as well as customer needs – think standard versus heavy-duty, as well as Single versus Double Cab, and Pickup versus Cab Chassis. Kia offers a number of wild and wacky extras for the Tasman in the Korean domestic market, but Mr Rivero said these options aren't locked in for Australia at the moment, largely due to the cost from factory. Do you want to see a production version of the Tasman Weekender Concept? Sound off in the comments! MORE: Beefy new Kia Tasman concept previews hardcore off-road gearMORE: Everything Kia Tasman Content originally sourced from:
