Originally there was only going to be one model on offer locally, the top of the range, X-Pro 4×4. But the strategy changed and three models are now being offered straight off the bat.
The LX 4×2 at R679 995 serves as the entry point to the range and is said to offer a durable and dependable solution for work-focused applications. Stepping up, the Kia Tasman SX 4×4 introduces all-wheel-drive capability.
The X-Pro 4×4 is there to satisfy any off-road need and desire you have, while offering the best in tech and luxury the brand offers.
Love it or hate it
In a quirky marketing move, you can opt for what is called a ‘Colour Coded’ derivative, and for an extra R5 000 the wheel arches are painted in body colour.
This brings us to the styling of the Kia Tasman. It’s the most polarising aspect of this double cab. It is a straight-up love-it-or-hate-it proposition.
But Kia never designed the Tasman to be a smoother Ford Ranger or new Toyota Hilux. They brought something different to the market. And for me the thing I like most about it is that it’s different.
Big piece of metal
The Tasman is not an average sized double cab. It comes in at 5 410mm in length and 1 930mm wide with 3 270mm wheelbase. It is an imposing piece of metal at the higher end of the segment in terms of size and road presence.
These dimensions also translate into a large load bin area that can handle up to 1 150kg and a volume of 1 300ℓ.
The bakkie offers a gross vehicle mass of 3 250kg and a gross combined mass of 6 200kg, along with a braked towing capacity of 3 500kg that places it right up there with the class leaders. You also get a ground clearance of up to 252mm and a wading depth of 800mm.
All the bells and whistles
The seats are super comfortable, and the interior is modern and well appointed. You have a fully integrated digital display setup that neatly combines a 12,3” driver cluster, a central infotainment screen, and a dedicated climate control interface.
You also have the expected modern connectivity features and advanced driver assistance systems on offer.
These include adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance, to blind-spot monitoring and autonomous emergency braking.
Diesel power
The Kia Tasman offers only one engine derivative and that is the family 2,2ℓ turbodiesel engine that produces 154kW of power and 440Nm of torque. The power is delivered through a smooth shifting, if somewhat over eager, eight-speed automatic transmission.
For the same type of money, you can get the new Ford Ranger Sport with that gem of a 3,0ℓ V6 turbodiesel that offers 184kW and 600Nm. And if you are a Toyota loyalist, your money will get you the ageing 165kW/550Nm Toyota Hilux GR-S. Both will be faster than the Tasman if that’s your thing.
Bakkie-like ride
Underpinning the Kia Tasman is a robust ladder-frame chassis setup, paired with a double wishbone front suspension and a rigid rear axle with leaf springs. It drives like you would expect a range topping double cab to drive, but still a bit bakkie-like.
You have selectable drive modes – Eco, Sport, Normal and Tow – that are complemented by dedicated terrain settings for low-grip conditions.
There is also a feature called X-TREK mode that allows for controlled, low-speed progress over rough terrain.
What’s the verdict?
Kia is not trying to reinvent the segment, but rather offer an alternative double bakkie that is well worth a serious look. Don’t dismiss the Kia Tasman simply because of its looks.
Vehicle pricing
Tasman 2.2D AT 4×2 LX R679 995
Tasman 2.2D AT 4WD SX R879 995
Tasman 2.2D AT 4WD X-PRO R999 995
Pricing includes six-year/90 000km service plan and a five-year unlimited km warranty.
