Kia South Africa has entered the country’s bakkie segment with the launch of the Tasman, a double cab developed from the ground up. The move marks a notable expansion for a brand better known locally for its passenger cars and SUVs.
Rather than adapting an existing global platform, Kia built the Tasman as a purpose-designed vehicle for work and leisure use, with an eye on tough operating conditions. The result is a bakkie that tries to balance traditional durability with a more modern, design-led approach.
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Under the bonnet sits Kia’s 2,2-litre SmartStream turbo-diesel engine, producing 154 kW at 3 800 r/min and 440 Nm of torque from 1 750 r/min to 2 750 r/min. That spread of torque is meant to help with off-road driving, towing and long-distance cruising.
An eight-speed automatic transmission sends power to the wheels. The bakkie rides on a ladder-frame chassis with double wishbone suspension up front and a rigid rear axle with leaf springs – a setup chosen for durability and load carrying without sacrificing ride comfort completely.
The Tasman measures 5 410 mm in length and 1 930 mm in width, with a wheelbase of 3 270 mm. Those dimensions place it among the larger double cabs on the market. Inside, that translates to a roomy cabin, while the load bin is sized for practical use.
Ground clearance reaches 252 mm, and wading depth is rated at 800 mm. Approach angle goes up to 32,2 degrees, departure angle up to 26,2 degrees and the breakover angle up to 25,8 degrees.
Drivers can choose between Eco, Sport, Normal and Tow modes, along with terrain settings for sand, mud and loose gravel. An X-TREK mode helps with low-speed progress over rough ground and a rear electronic differential lock distributes torque to improve traction. Downhill Brake Control manages speed on steep descents without constant pedal work.
Gross vehicle mass is 3 250 kg and gross combined mass is 6 200 kg. Payload exceeds one tonne and braked towing capacity is rated at 3 500 kg. The load bin offers more than 1 300 litres (SAE) of volume.
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The interior features a digital display setup with a 12,3-inch driver cluster, a central infotainment screen, and a separate climate control panel. Space is generous for front and rear passengers. Safety kit includes adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assistance, blind spot monitoring and autonomous emergency braking.
The local range starts with the Tasman LX 4x2 and LX 4x2 Colour Coded, followed by the SX 4x4 and SX 4x4 Colour Coded, and topped by the X-Pro 4x4 and X-Pro 4x4 Colour Coded. The Colour Coded versions get body coloured exterior elements for a more polished look.
The LX 4x2 is positioned as a work focused entry point. The SX 4x4 adds all wheel drive for buyers needing extra traction. The X-Pro 4x4 is aimed at off-road and adventure driving, with the Colour Coded version adding a premium finish.
Pricing
Kia Tasman 2.2D AT 4x2 LX – R 679 995
Kia Tasman 2.2D AT 4WD SX – R 789 995
Kia Tasman 2.2D AT 4WD X-PRO – R 999 995
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