Kia Confirms Tasman as Nameplate for All-New Pickup, Set to Rival Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux

Kia has officially announced that its upcoming global pick-up truck will be named the Tasman, a revelation that has been eagerly awaited by automotive enthusiasts. The Tasman moniker, inspired by the Tasman Sea and the renowned explorer Abel Tasman who discovered the rugged landscapes of Tasmania, was proposed by Kia Australia and has now been confirmed for the highly anticipated ute.

The decision to name the pick-up truck Tasman solidifies Kia’s entry into the fierce competition against established players like Ford Ranger, Toyota HiLux, and Isuzu D-MAX in the ute market. The Australian market, in particular, is poised to embrace the Tasman, positioning Kia ahead of competitors like Mazda, Ford, and Mitsubishi in the sales charts.

With plans to roll out the Tasman in major markets such as Australia, South Korea, Africa, and the Middle East, Kia underscores its commitment to offering a robust and resilient vehicle that embodies the spirit of enduring toughness. The choice of the name Tasman pays homage to the Australian region and the legacy of Abel Tasman, reflecting the rugged character and capabilities of Kia’s upcoming pick-up truck.

Damien Meredith, the head of Kia Australia, expressed pride in the Australian influence reflected in the name Tasman. He highlighted the instrumental role played by Kia Australia in the development and future success of the ute, which is set to make a significant impact in the competitive ute segment.

The Kia Tasman, designed with input from both Korea and Australia, is gearing up for a mid-2025 release in diesel-powered variants. Anticipated to offer competitive pricing and backed by a seven-year warranty, the Tasman is expected to carve out a niche for itself among enthusiasts and buyers seeking a rugged and capable pick-up truck.