2025 Kia Tasman Pickup Truck Full Specs Power Features, and Performance Review

The 2025 Kia Tasman marks Kia’s bold entry into the midsize pickup (ute) market. It’s built on a body-on-frame architecture and offers powerful capability, modern tech, and rugged styling. Below, I break down everything you need to know — from its powertrains to its on- and off-road performance, plus strengths and potential weaknesses.

Full Specs & Powertrain

Engine Options

• In many markets (like Australia), the base and main powertrain is a 2.2 L turbo-diesel four-cylinder.
• According to Autocar India, there’s also a 2.5 L turbo-petrol option (in some regions), producing about 281 hp (≈ 210 kW) and 421 Nm.
• However, in Australia, Kia seems to be focusing on the diesel: 154 kW (which is about 210 hp) and 440–441 Nm torque.

Transmission & Drive

• For drive modes:

Performance

• 0–100 km/h:
  • Diesel: ~10.4 seconds.
  • Petrol (2.5 L): ~8.5 seconds.
• Top Speed: Both versions reportedly cap at ~185 km/h.

Payload, Towing & Capability

Suspension & Off-Road Features

• Suspension Setup:
  • Front: Double-wishbone suspension for better control.
  • Rear: Rigid axle with leaf springs, typical for pickup trucks, to handle heavy loads.
• Dampers / Control Systems: It offers features like Sensitive Damper Control (SDC) and hydraulic rebound stop to minimize cabin vibration.
• Off-Road Mode (X-Pro version):
• Trailer Brake Controller: Integrated trailer brake system to help control trailers when braking.

Interior & Tech Features

• Dashboard / Displays:
  • Triple-screen setup: 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 5-inch climate control display, and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen.
• Storage / Cabin Practicality:
  • Folding console table in the cabin.
  • Large side storage bins, second-row under-seat storage (e.g., 33 L) for gear.
• Audio: Harman Kardon premium 8-speaker sound system.
• Second Row Seating:
  • The rear seats can recline (between ~22–30 degrees) to improve comfort.
• Convenience Features:
• Safety / Driver Assistance (ADAS):
  • Lane Keep Assist, Blind-Spot Collision Warning.
  • Remote / automated parking features, depending on market.
  • Downhill Brake Control (DBC) for controlled descents in 4WD modes.

Design & Styling

• Exterior Styling:
  • Bold, somewhat boxy and rugged design.
  • Vertically stacked headlamps integrated into black cladding, giving a strong front-end presence.
  • Massive front grille, muscular hood.
• Body Styles:
  • Offered in single cab, double cab, and cab chassis (truck frame only) versions.
• Bed Configurations:
  • Four configurations: Single Decker, Double Decker, Sports Bar, and Ladder Rack.
• Ground Clearance:
  • Varies by trim: e.g., X-Pro (4WD) has ~252 mm clearance.

Performance Review & Real-World Impressions

Driving & On-Road Behavior

• In reviews (CarExpert), the diesel 2.2L has been tested — fuel consumption during testing came to ~9.2 L/100 km, while the claimed is ~8.1 L/100 km.
• The 0–100 km/h time (10.4 s for diesel) is not super fast, but acceptable for a heavy, body-on-frame ute.
• Transmission feels smooth with the 8-speed auto, making for refined driving even under load.

Off-Road & Capability

Comfort & Practicality

• The triple-screen interior provides a modern and tech-forward cabin feel.
• Good storage solutions (console table, rear storage, side bins) add utility.
• Reclining rear seats are a plus for passenger comfort, especially on long drives.
• The premium audio system (Harman Kardon) is a nice touch, especially for a rugged utility vehicle.

Strengths & Advantages

1. Very competitive towing and payload for its class — 3,500 kg towing is impressive.
2. Modern interior with strong tech — triple displays, good storage, and comfort.
3. Off-road ready — terrain modes, locking differential (on some trims), robust suspension.
4. Good wading capability — 800 mm water fording is useful.
5. High build flexibility — multiple bed configurations let buyers choose what kind of utility they need (ladder rack, sports bar, etc.).

Potential Drawbacks or Trade-Offs

Conclusion & Verdict

The 2025 Kia Tasman is a very strong entry into the midsize ute/pickup segment. It successfully blends utility, off-road capability, and modern tech, making it attractive both for work and recreational users. Its towing and payload numbers are class-competitive, and the interior is surprisingly refined for a body-on-frame truck.