New Models / 9 April 2026 / Warren Hawkins

New Kia Tasman launched in South Africa – Pricing and features

Kia has long teased the arrival of its first bakkie – the Tasman – in South Africa, and now the model has officially landed on our shores.

The South Korean automaker confirmed in 2024 that the double-cab bakkie was destined for South Africa and planned for a launch sometime in 2025, initially in fellow right-hand-drive market Australia.

However, it has now officially launched locally and is looking to compete in the midsize double-cab bakkie segment, thanks to its R679,995 starting price and three distinct variants – the LX, SX, and X-Pro.

Powertrain

While the Korean version of the Tasman was fitted with a 2.5-litre petrol motor producing 207kW and 421Nm, local variants feature the same turbocharged 2.2-litre diesel unit fitted to Australian models.

The engine produces 154kW and 440Nm and has been married to an eight-speed automatic transmission, which sends power to the rear wheels in the entry-level model, and all four at the top of the range.

This configuration grants drivers a 7.5l/100km fuel economy in the two-wheel-drive LX, or 7.8l/100km in the four-wheel-drive models, as well as a top speed of 185km/h across the board.

The Tasman features several selectable drive modes, namely Eco, Sport, Normal, and Tow, which feature terrain settings for low-grip conditions, allowing it to tackle sand, mud, and loose gravel.

In more testing conditions, the X-Trek mode allows drivers to progress over rough terrain at low speeds, while its rear electronic differential lock enhances traction by distributing torque to where it is needed.

The bakkie is built on a ladder-frame chassis featuring a double-wishbone front suspension and rear axle with leaf springs to enhance its load-carrying capabilities.

Its expansive frame measures 5,410mm long, 1,930mm wide, and includes a 3,270mm wheelbase, making it one of the larger double-cab bakkies in South Africa.

Standing on 17-inch alloy wheels, the Tasman boasts a ground clearance of up to 252mm and a wading depth of 800mm, and approach angles of up to 32.2 degrees and departure angles of up to 26.2 degrees.

The Tasman is also capable of carrying substantial loads, including a payload capacity that exceeds a tonne, and a braked towing capacity of 3,500kg.

Features

Styling is standard across the three Tasman models, with an expansive radiator grille and bumper, as well as a distinct hood and grille frame, large black bumper and vertical LED headlights and daytime running lights.

Models launched in South Africa also include “Colour Coded” derivatives, which introduce a more refined exterior appearance, with key exterior elements finished in body colour to create a more premium look.

Inside, Kia designed the cabin to be spacious and comfortable for both front and rear occupants, adding a suite of modern connectivity features.

These are controlled through the 12.3-inch driver cluster and central infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and feature a dedicated climate control interface.

Advanced driver assistance systems include a range of safety technologies, from adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance to blind-spot monitoring and autonomous emergency braking.