Latest news with #RolandRivero
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:
The Advertiser
09-05-2025
- Automotive
- The Advertiser
2025 Kia Tasman to get split safety rating
Kia Australia says the new Tasman dual-cab ute's success in the fleet market hinges on a five-star ANCAP safety rating which it expects to achieve, though the entire range isn't expected to be rated by the safety authority. Speaking with CarExpert at the prototype drive of the brand's first dual-cab ute, general manager for product at Kia Australia – Roland Rivero – said the local range will offer two front bumper variations, with the off-road bumper on the X-Line and X-Pro models less effective in pedestrian detection. "[The front bumper of lower grades] is safety related, in that the lower approach angle in effect assists with pedestrian safety, or vulnerable road user detection, and with the high approach angle the X-Line and X-Pro it's not as friendly from a lower leg perspective – so we want to give the Tasman a chance of hitting the five-star mark," Mr Rivero said. "Particularly because it's a non-negotiable for many fleets, we don't want to lose that potential 50 per cent of business if we don't achieve that five-star rating." Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. When asked if there will be a split rating for the Tasman similar to how the previous-generation Kia Cerato had a split rating depending on specification, Mr Rivero said the off-road-focused models will likely go unrated instead. "At this point in time, the off-roaders will be unrated, in effect. But you can still take an S, SX or SX+ 4×4 off-road if you wanted to, and get a reasonable approach angle if you change the bar and put a bullbar in its place that will grant you a lot more clearance," Mr Rivero continued "We envisage some of the big fleets will do that – QFleet, Department of Agriculture, Department of Primary Industries – they do that, and they need a five-star rating from the get-go. "[Those customers] do a lot of rural driving, and kangaroos can become a problem, so they'll put the bull bars on. That's how we see the market playing out in that regard, from a bumper perspective." While the top-selling Ford Ranger (excl. Raptor) and Toyota HiLux (excl. GR Sport) feature five-star ANCAP ratings across most of their ranges, they're also subject to older test criteria, whereas the Kia is up against the latest standards. Standard safety equipment includes: Tasman SX adds: Tasman X-Line adds: Kia Australia has yet to confirm the Tasman's airbag count. The Kia Tasman is available for pre-order now, ahead of a first deliveries around July. Prices start from $42,990 before on-road costs for the entry-level S 4×2 dual-cab pickup, climbing to $74,990 for the loaded, off-road focused X-Pro. Read our full price and specs breakdown here. MORE: Everything Kia Tasman Content originally sourced from: Kia Australia says the new Tasman dual-cab ute's success in the fleet market hinges on a five-star ANCAP safety rating which it expects to achieve, though the entire range isn't expected to be rated by the safety authority. Speaking with CarExpert at the prototype drive of the brand's first dual-cab ute, general manager for product at Kia Australia – Roland Rivero – said the local range will offer two front bumper variations, with the off-road bumper on the X-Line and X-Pro models less effective in pedestrian detection. "[The front bumper of lower grades] is safety related, in that the lower approach angle in effect assists with pedestrian safety, or vulnerable road user detection, and with the high approach angle the X-Line and X-Pro it's not as friendly from a lower leg perspective – so we want to give the Tasman a chance of hitting the five-star mark," Mr Rivero said. "Particularly because it's a non-negotiable for many fleets, we don't want to lose that potential 50 per cent of business if we don't achieve that five-star rating." Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. When asked if there will be a split rating for the Tasman similar to how the previous-generation Kia Cerato had a split rating depending on specification, Mr Rivero said the off-road-focused models will likely go unrated instead. "At this point in time, the off-roaders will be unrated, in effect. But you can still take an S, SX or SX+ 4×4 off-road if you wanted to, and get a reasonable approach angle if you change the bar and put a bullbar in its place that will grant you a lot more clearance," Mr Rivero continued "We envisage some of the big fleets will do that – QFleet, Department of Agriculture, Department of Primary Industries – they do that, and they need a five-star rating from the get-go. "[Those customers] do a lot of rural driving, and kangaroos can become a problem, so they'll put the bull bars on. That's how we see the market playing out in that regard, from a bumper perspective." While the top-selling Ford Ranger (excl. Raptor) and Toyota HiLux (excl. GR Sport) feature five-star ANCAP ratings across most of their ranges, they're also subject to older test criteria, whereas the Kia is up against the latest standards. Standard safety equipment includes: Tasman SX adds: Tasman X-Line adds: Kia Australia has yet to confirm the Tasman's airbag count. The Kia Tasman is available for pre-order now, ahead of a first deliveries around July. Prices start from $42,990 before on-road costs for the entry-level S 4×2 dual-cab pickup, climbing to $74,990 for the loaded, off-road focused X-Pro. Read our full price and specs breakdown here. MORE: Everything Kia Tasman Content originally sourced from: Kia Australia says the new Tasman dual-cab ute's success in the fleet market hinges on a five-star ANCAP safety rating which it expects to achieve, though the entire range isn't expected to be rated by the safety authority. Speaking with CarExpert at the prototype drive of the brand's first dual-cab ute, general manager for product at Kia Australia – Roland Rivero – said the local range will offer two front bumper variations, with the off-road bumper on the X-Line and X-Pro models less effective in pedestrian detection. "[The front bumper of lower grades] is safety related, in that the lower approach angle in effect assists with pedestrian safety, or vulnerable road user detection, and with the high approach angle the X-Line and X-Pro it's not as friendly from a lower leg perspective – so we want to give the Tasman a chance of hitting the five-star mark," Mr Rivero said. "Particularly because it's a non-negotiable for many fleets, we don't want to lose that potential 50 per cent of business if we don't achieve that five-star rating." Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. When asked if there will be a split rating for the Tasman similar to how the previous-generation Kia Cerato had a split rating depending on specification, Mr Rivero said the off-road-focused models will likely go unrated instead. "At this point in time, the off-roaders will be unrated, in effect. But you can still take an S, SX or SX+ 4×4 off-road if you wanted to, and get a reasonable approach angle if you change the bar and put a bullbar in its place that will grant you a lot more clearance," Mr Rivero continued "We envisage some of the big fleets will do that – QFleet, Department of Agriculture, Department of Primary Industries – they do that, and they need a five-star rating from the get-go. "[Those customers] do a lot of rural driving, and kangaroos can become a problem, so they'll put the bull bars on. That's how we see the market playing out in that regard, from a bumper perspective." While the top-selling Ford Ranger (excl. Raptor) and Toyota HiLux (excl. GR Sport) feature five-star ANCAP ratings across most of their ranges, they're also subject to older test criteria, whereas the Kia is up against the latest standards. Standard safety equipment includes: Tasman SX adds: Tasman X-Line adds: Kia Australia has yet to confirm the Tasman's airbag count. The Kia Tasman is available for pre-order now, ahead of a first deliveries around July. Prices start from $42,990 before on-road costs for the entry-level S 4×2 dual-cab pickup, climbing to $74,990 for the loaded, off-road focused X-Pro. Read our full price and specs breakdown here. MORE: Everything Kia Tasman Content originally sourced from: Kia Australia says the new Tasman dual-cab ute's success in the fleet market hinges on a five-star ANCAP safety rating which it expects to achieve, though the entire range isn't expected to be rated by the safety authority. Speaking with CarExpert at the prototype drive of the brand's first dual-cab ute, general manager for product at Kia Australia – Roland Rivero – said the local range will offer two front bumper variations, with the off-road bumper on the X-Line and X-Pro models less effective in pedestrian detection. "[The front bumper of lower grades] is safety related, in that the lower approach angle in effect assists with pedestrian safety, or vulnerable road user detection, and with the high approach angle the X-Line and X-Pro it's not as friendly from a lower leg perspective – so we want to give the Tasman a chance of hitting the five-star mark," Mr Rivero said. "Particularly because it's a non-negotiable for many fleets, we don't want to lose that potential 50 per cent of business if we don't achieve that five-star rating." Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. When asked if there will be a split rating for the Tasman similar to how the previous-generation Kia Cerato had a split rating depending on specification, Mr Rivero said the off-road-focused models will likely go unrated instead. "At this point in time, the off-roaders will be unrated, in effect. But you can still take an S, SX or SX+ 4×4 off-road if you wanted to, and get a reasonable approach angle if you change the bar and put a bullbar in its place that will grant you a lot more clearance," Mr Rivero continued "We envisage some of the big fleets will do that – QFleet, Department of Agriculture, Department of Primary Industries – they do that, and they need a five-star rating from the get-go. "[Those customers] do a lot of rural driving, and kangaroos can become a problem, so they'll put the bull bars on. That's how we see the market playing out in that regard, from a bumper perspective." While the top-selling Ford Ranger (excl. Raptor) and Toyota HiLux (excl. GR Sport) feature five-star ANCAP ratings across most of their ranges, they're also subject to older test criteria, whereas the Kia is up against the latest standards. Standard safety equipment includes: Tasman SX adds: Tasman X-Line adds: Kia Australia has yet to confirm the Tasman's airbag count. The Kia Tasman is available for pre-order now, ahead of a first deliveries around July. Prices start from $42,990 before on-road costs for the entry-level S 4×2 dual-cab pickup, climbing to $74,990 for the loaded, off-road focused X-Pro. Read our full price and specs breakdown here. MORE: Everything Kia Tasman Content originally sourced from:
The Advertiser
09-05-2025
- Automotive
- The Advertiser
Kia still mulling hybrid, EV power for Tasman ute
It may seem odd that the Kia Tasman dual-cab ute will soon be launched only with a diesel engine, and without any form of electrified powertrains. That's especially so given the Korean brand's well-stocked inventory of petrol-electric (HEV) and battery-electric (EV) vehicle technologies, and the number of competitors adding hybrid drivetrains. But the carmaker's first pickup is expected to eventually become available with at least EV power. Speaking with CarExpert at the a local prototype drive for the Tasman, Kia Australia's general manager for product Roland Rivero said the Tasman's new bespoke ladder-frame platform accommodates multiple powertrain types. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. "So what's on the cards of being studied and reviewed, there's definitely hybrid and [full] electrification. When, is still very much TBC," Mr Rivero said. "I think the focus right now for all the markets that [Kia Global] has developed the Tasman [for] is 'we've given you the starting point, achieve your respective business plans and what you've promised to achieve with Tasman, and we can look at what needs to be done to sustain that or grow in the years to com'. "Tasman will have a long model life. Traditional [light commercial vehicle lifecycles] are anywhere from eight to 12 years – expect to see the same for Tasman, and to sustain demand and appeal for such a long period of time, you can't sit on your laurels." Mr Rivero added that the Tasman's ladder-frame chassis is a "fairly modular platform" which can "underpin numerous powertrains". For now, however, Australia is only getting a Euro 5 emissions-compliant version (ie: no AdBlue) of the carmaker's 154kW/440Nm 2.2-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel, matched to both 4×2 and 4×4 drivetrains. Shifting gears is an eight-speed automatic transmission as standard. Mr Rivero ruled out Australian availability of the 2.5-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine offered in the Korean market, citing pressure from the Australian Government's New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES), which will see carmakers financially penalised for not meeting average emissions caps from July 1, 2025. The turbo-petrol motor available abroad could, however, be implemented in a future hybrid drivetrain. Last month the Hyundai Motor Group – parent of the Hyundai, Kia and Genesis brands – detailed the next generation of its hybrid technologies, hinting at its future product plans. Debuting in the new Hyundai Palisade large SUV, which is powered by a 2.5-litre turbo-petrol hybrid system, the new set of electrified technologies are claimed to improve performance and efficiency, as well as general driveability. You can read more about it here, but the takeaway relating to the Tasman is a small note in the release stating that a rear-wheel drive-biased version of the 2.5 turbo hybrid is in the works for a 2026 introduction. While this is likely being developed primarily for the Genesis luxury division, it could also be tailored to the Tasman ute, given it already employs the non-hybrid version of that powertrain. As for a battery-electric version, Kia South Africa's head of marketing, Christo Valentyn, told CarBuzz in December last year that a Tasman EV was definitely "coming", though he didn't give an indication on timing. "I'm probably not supposed to say this, but… an electric one is coming," Mr Valentyn reportedly said at a media roundtable. Kia confirmed globally in 2022 that it was working on two utes: "a dedicated electric pickup truck and a strategic model for emerging markets", the latter of which is understood to be a battery-electric Tasman derivative. An electric Tasman would give Kia a rival for the upcoming LDV eTerron 9, while other brands like Ford have indicated globally that they're working on electric utes of their own to compete in this segment. There are also an increasing number of traditional hybrid (GWM Cannon Alpha and Toyota Tundra) and plug-in hybrid (BYD Shark 6, Ford Ranger PHEV and GWM Cannon Alpha Hi4-T) utes either already on sale here or coming to Australia. Are you hanging out for a Tasman Hybrid or EV? Tell us in the comments section! MORE: 2025 Kia Tasman review – Prototype off-road driveMORE: Everything Kia Tasman Content originally sourced from: It may seem odd that the Kia Tasman dual-cab ute will soon be launched only with a diesel engine, and without any form of electrified powertrains. That's especially so given the Korean brand's well-stocked inventory of petrol-electric (HEV) and battery-electric (EV) vehicle technologies, and the number of competitors adding hybrid drivetrains. But the carmaker's first pickup is expected to eventually become available with at least EV power. Speaking with CarExpert at the a local prototype drive for the Tasman, Kia Australia's general manager for product Roland Rivero said the Tasman's new bespoke ladder-frame platform accommodates multiple powertrain types. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. "So what's on the cards of being studied and reviewed, there's definitely hybrid and [full] electrification. When, is still very much TBC," Mr Rivero said. "I think the focus right now for all the markets that [Kia Global] has developed the Tasman [for] is 'we've given you the starting point, achieve your respective business plans and what you've promised to achieve with Tasman, and we can look at what needs to be done to sustain that or grow in the years to com'. "Tasman will have a long model life. Traditional [light commercial vehicle lifecycles] are anywhere from eight to 12 years – expect to see the same for Tasman, and to sustain demand and appeal for such a long period of time, you can't sit on your laurels." Mr Rivero added that the Tasman's ladder-frame chassis is a "fairly modular platform" which can "underpin numerous powertrains". For now, however, Australia is only getting a Euro 5 emissions-compliant version (ie: no AdBlue) of the carmaker's 154kW/440Nm 2.2-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel, matched to both 4×2 and 4×4 drivetrains. Shifting gears is an eight-speed automatic transmission as standard. Mr Rivero ruled out Australian availability of the 2.5-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine offered in the Korean market, citing pressure from the Australian Government's New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES), which will see carmakers financially penalised for not meeting average emissions caps from July 1, 2025. The turbo-petrol motor available abroad could, however, be implemented in a future hybrid drivetrain. Last month the Hyundai Motor Group – parent of the Hyundai, Kia and Genesis brands – detailed the next generation of its hybrid technologies, hinting at its future product plans. Debuting in the new Hyundai Palisade large SUV, which is powered by a 2.5-litre turbo-petrol hybrid system, the new set of electrified technologies are claimed to improve performance and efficiency, as well as general driveability. You can read more about it here, but the takeaway relating to the Tasman is a small note in the release stating that a rear-wheel drive-biased version of the 2.5 turbo hybrid is in the works for a 2026 introduction. While this is likely being developed primarily for the Genesis luxury division, it could also be tailored to the Tasman ute, given it already employs the non-hybrid version of that powertrain. As for a battery-electric version, Kia South Africa's head of marketing, Christo Valentyn, told CarBuzz in December last year that a Tasman EV was definitely "coming", though he didn't give an indication on timing. "I'm probably not supposed to say this, but… an electric one is coming," Mr Valentyn reportedly said at a media roundtable. Kia confirmed globally in 2022 that it was working on two utes: "a dedicated electric pickup truck and a strategic model for emerging markets", the latter of which is understood to be a battery-electric Tasman derivative. An electric Tasman would give Kia a rival for the upcoming LDV eTerron 9, while other brands like Ford have indicated globally that they're working on electric utes of their own to compete in this segment. There are also an increasing number of traditional hybrid (GWM Cannon Alpha and Toyota Tundra) and plug-in hybrid (BYD Shark 6, Ford Ranger PHEV and GWM Cannon Alpha Hi4-T) utes either already on sale here or coming to Australia. Are you hanging out for a Tasman Hybrid or EV? Tell us in the comments section! MORE: 2025 Kia Tasman review – Prototype off-road driveMORE: Everything Kia Tasman Content originally sourced from: It may seem odd that the Kia Tasman dual-cab ute will soon be launched only with a diesel engine, and without any form of electrified powertrains. That's especially so given the Korean brand's well-stocked inventory of petrol-electric (HEV) and battery-electric (EV) vehicle technologies, and the number of competitors adding hybrid drivetrains. But the carmaker's first pickup is expected to eventually become available with at least EV power. Speaking with CarExpert at the a local prototype drive for the Tasman, Kia Australia's general manager for product Roland Rivero said the Tasman's new bespoke ladder-frame platform accommodates multiple powertrain types. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. "So what's on the cards of being studied and reviewed, there's definitely hybrid and [full] electrification. When, is still very much TBC," Mr Rivero said. "I think the focus right now for all the markets that [Kia Global] has developed the Tasman [for] is 'we've given you the starting point, achieve your respective business plans and what you've promised to achieve with Tasman, and we can look at what needs to be done to sustain that or grow in the years to com'. "Tasman will have a long model life. Traditional [light commercial vehicle lifecycles] are anywhere from eight to 12 years – expect to see the same for Tasman, and to sustain demand and appeal for such a long period of time, you can't sit on your laurels." Mr Rivero added that the Tasman's ladder-frame chassis is a "fairly modular platform" which can "underpin numerous powertrains". For now, however, Australia is only getting a Euro 5 emissions-compliant version (ie: no AdBlue) of the carmaker's 154kW/440Nm 2.2-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel, matched to both 4×2 and 4×4 drivetrains. Shifting gears is an eight-speed automatic transmission as standard. Mr Rivero ruled out Australian availability of the 2.5-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine offered in the Korean market, citing pressure from the Australian Government's New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES), which will see carmakers financially penalised for not meeting average emissions caps from July 1, 2025. The turbo-petrol motor available abroad could, however, be implemented in a future hybrid drivetrain. Last month the Hyundai Motor Group – parent of the Hyundai, Kia and Genesis brands – detailed the next generation of its hybrid technologies, hinting at its future product plans. Debuting in the new Hyundai Palisade large SUV, which is powered by a 2.5-litre turbo-petrol hybrid system, the new set of electrified technologies are claimed to improve performance and efficiency, as well as general driveability. You can read more about it here, but the takeaway relating to the Tasman is a small note in the release stating that a rear-wheel drive-biased version of the 2.5 turbo hybrid is in the works for a 2026 introduction. While this is likely being developed primarily for the Genesis luxury division, it could also be tailored to the Tasman ute, given it already employs the non-hybrid version of that powertrain. As for a battery-electric version, Kia South Africa's head of marketing, Christo Valentyn, told CarBuzz in December last year that a Tasman EV was definitely "coming", though he didn't give an indication on timing. "I'm probably not supposed to say this, but… an electric one is coming," Mr Valentyn reportedly said at a media roundtable. Kia confirmed globally in 2022 that it was working on two utes: "a dedicated electric pickup truck and a strategic model for emerging markets", the latter of which is understood to be a battery-electric Tasman derivative. An electric Tasman would give Kia a rival for the upcoming LDV eTerron 9, while other brands like Ford have indicated globally that they're working on electric utes of their own to compete in this segment. There are also an increasing number of traditional hybrid (GWM Cannon Alpha and Toyota Tundra) and plug-in hybrid (BYD Shark 6, Ford Ranger PHEV and GWM Cannon Alpha Hi4-T) utes either already on sale here or coming to Australia. Are you hanging out for a Tasman Hybrid or EV? Tell us in the comments section! MORE: 2025 Kia Tasman review – Prototype off-road driveMORE: Everything Kia Tasman Content originally sourced from: It may seem odd that the Kia Tasman dual-cab ute will soon be launched only with a diesel engine, and without any form of electrified powertrains. That's especially so given the Korean brand's well-stocked inventory of petrol-electric (HEV) and battery-electric (EV) vehicle technologies, and the number of competitors adding hybrid drivetrains. But the carmaker's first pickup is expected to eventually become available with at least EV power. Speaking with CarExpert at the a local prototype drive for the Tasman, Kia Australia's general manager for product Roland Rivero said the Tasman's new bespoke ladder-frame platform accommodates multiple powertrain types. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. "So what's on the cards of being studied and reviewed, there's definitely hybrid and [full] electrification. When, is still very much TBC," Mr Rivero said. "I think the focus right now for all the markets that [Kia Global] has developed the Tasman [for] is 'we've given you the starting point, achieve your respective business plans and what you've promised to achieve with Tasman, and we can look at what needs to be done to sustain that or grow in the years to com'. "Tasman will have a long model life. Traditional [light commercial vehicle lifecycles] are anywhere from eight to 12 years – expect to see the same for Tasman, and to sustain demand and appeal for such a long period of time, you can't sit on your laurels." Mr Rivero added that the Tasman's ladder-frame chassis is a "fairly modular platform" which can "underpin numerous powertrains". For now, however, Australia is only getting a Euro 5 emissions-compliant version (ie: no AdBlue) of the carmaker's 154kW/440Nm 2.2-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel, matched to both 4×2 and 4×4 drivetrains. Shifting gears is an eight-speed automatic transmission as standard. Mr Rivero ruled out Australian availability of the 2.5-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine offered in the Korean market, citing pressure from the Australian Government's New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES), which will see carmakers financially penalised for not meeting average emissions caps from July 1, 2025. The turbo-petrol motor available abroad could, however, be implemented in a future hybrid drivetrain. Last month the Hyundai Motor Group – parent of the Hyundai, Kia and Genesis brands – detailed the next generation of its hybrid technologies, hinting at its future product plans. Debuting in the new Hyundai Palisade large SUV, which is powered by a 2.5-litre turbo-petrol hybrid system, the new set of electrified technologies are claimed to improve performance and efficiency, as well as general driveability. You can read more about it here, but the takeaway relating to the Tasman is a small note in the release stating that a rear-wheel drive-biased version of the 2.5 turbo hybrid is in the works for a 2026 introduction. While this is likely being developed primarily for the Genesis luxury division, it could also be tailored to the Tasman ute, given it already employs the non-hybrid version of that powertrain. As for a battery-electric version, Kia South Africa's head of marketing, Christo Valentyn, told CarBuzz in December last year that a Tasman EV was definitely "coming", though he didn't give an indication on timing. "I'm probably not supposed to say this, but… an electric one is coming," Mr Valentyn reportedly said at a media roundtable. Kia confirmed globally in 2022 that it was working on two utes: "a dedicated electric pickup truck and a strategic model for emerging markets", the latter of which is understood to be a battery-electric Tasman derivative. An electric Tasman would give Kia a rival for the upcoming LDV eTerron 9, while other brands like Ford have indicated globally that they're working on electric utes of their own to compete in this segment. There are also an increasing number of traditional hybrid (GWM Cannon Alpha and Toyota Tundra) and plug-in hybrid (BYD Shark 6, Ford Ranger PHEV and GWM Cannon Alpha Hi4-T) utes either already on sale here or coming to Australia. Are you hanging out for a Tasman Hybrid or EV? Tell us in the comments section! MORE: 2025 Kia Tasman review – Prototype off-road driveMORE: Everything Kia Tasman Content originally sourced from:
7NEWS
09-05-2025
- Automotive
- 7NEWS
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.
West Australian
09-05-2025
- Automotive
- West Australian
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 gear MORE: Everything Kia Tasman
