The 2025 Kia Tasman is one of the most anticipated new vehicles to hit the Australian market this year. Designed to challenge established rivals like the Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux, the Tasman is Kia’s first-ever pickup truck, developed specifically to appeal to the Australian lifestyle ute segment. With a robust turbo-diesel engine, advanced off-road features, and a range of trim options, the Tasman is set to shake up the dual-cab market.
Kia Tasman: What’s New?
| State/Territory | Monetary Rebate | Registration Discount | Stamp Duty Waiver | Other Incentives |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NSW | None | None | None | EV fleet funding |
| QLD | None | Minor | Minor | None |
| VIC | None | Minor | None | None |
| SA | None | 3-year exemption (ends 30 June 2025) | None | None |
| WA | None (closed 10 May 2025) | None | None | None |
| ACT | None | Yes | Yes | Interest-free loans |
| NT | None | Free rego | Free stamp duty | EV charger grants |
| TAS | None | None | None | None |
A Fresh Challenger in the Ute Market
Kia’s entry into the Australian ute market has been long-awaited. The Tasman is a ground-up design, engineered to meet the demands of Australian drivers who require both capability and comfort. Kia is targeting around 20,000 annual sales for the Tasman, which would make it the third best-selling ute brand in Australia, behind only Toyota and Ford.
Styling and Design
The Tasman’s exterior design has divided opinion since its global reveal, with its bold lines and distinctive fender flares. Kia has responded to feedback by offering body-coloured fender flares on select models and colours, such as Tan Beige and Clear White, to soften the look and appeal to more buyers. The rest of the range retains dark-grey flares, giving the Tasman a rugged, no-nonsense appearance.
Powertrain and Performance
Turbo-Diesel Engine
All Tasman models are powered by a 154kW/440Nm four-cylinder turbo diesel engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This setup provides ample torque for towing and hauling, making the Tasman a capable workhorse as well as a comfortable daily driver.
Towing and Payload
The Tasman boasts a braked towing capacity of 3,500kg, matching the best in its class. Payloads exceed one tonne for all models, though Kia offers lower payload options to meet novated lease requirements. An Integrated Trailer Brake Controller is standard across the range, further enhancing towing safety and convenience.
Trim Levels and Pricing
Range Overview
The 2025 Kia Tasman is available in five main trim levels: S, SX, SX+, X-Line, and X-Pro. Both 4×2 and 4×4 drivetrains are offered, with pricing starting from $42,990 before on-road costs for the base S 4×2 model, and topping out at $74,990 for the flagship X-Pro 4×4. Driveaway pricing starts at $46,490 for the S 4×2 and $77,990 for the X-Pro 4×4 in Western Australia, which incurs an additional $1,000 for all variants.
Trim Highlights
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S Trim: Entry-level, available in 4×2 and 4×4, with essential features and robust capability.
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SX Trim: Adds more advanced tech and comfort features.
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SX+ Trim: Further enhances luxury and convenience.
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X-Line: Focuses on off-road capability with additional features.
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X-Pro: Flagship model with terrain modes, electronically controlled locking differential, premium audio, and sunroof.
Technology and Features
Interior and Infotainment
The Tasman features a modern interior with dual wireless charging pads and an integrated panoramic display standard across all trims. The X-Pro adds a Harmon Kardon sound system and panoramic sunroof for a premium feel.
Off-Road Capability
All models come with a mechanical locking rear differential (electronically controlled on X-Pro), and terrain modes are available on higher trims. These features, combined with the robust engine and chassis, make the Tasman a serious contender for off-road enthusiasts.
Release Dates and Availability
Australian Rollout
The Tasman will be available in Australia in several body styles:
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Dual Cab Pick-Up: Arrives in July 2025.
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Dual Cab Chassis: Launches in August 2025.
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Single Cab Chassis: Expected in late 2025.
Pre-orders are open now, and Kia expects strong demand from both private and fleet buyers.
Competition and Market Position
Rivals
The Tasman enters a highly competitive market, going head-to-head with the Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux, which dominate the Australian ute landscape. It also faces new competition from Chinese brands such as JAC T9, BYD Shark 6, and MG U9.
Sales Targets
Kia aims to capture around 10% of the Australian ute market, which would translate to about 20,000 annual sales. Achieving this would make the Tasman the third most popular ute brand in Australia.
Government Incentives and Schemes
Electric Vehicle (EV) Incentives
While the Kia Tasman is a diesel-powered ute, it’s worth noting the current landscape of government incentives for new vehicles in Australia. As of June 2025, there are no monetary rebates for EV purchases in any state or territory, following the closure of Western Australia’s $3,500 EV rebate on May 10, 2025. However, some states still offer registration discounts, stamp duty waivers, or interest-free loans for eligible EVs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When will the Kia Tasman be available in Australia?
A: The Dual Cab Pick-Up arrives in July 2025, Dual Cab Chassis in August, and Single Cab Chassis in late 2025.
Q: What is the price range for the Kia Tasman?
A: Pricing starts from $42,990 before on-road costs for the base S 4×2, up to $74,990 for the X-Pro 4×4.
Q: Does the Kia Tasman qualify for government EV incentives?
A: No, the Tasman is diesel-powered and does not qualify for current electric vehicle incentives in Australia.
The 2025 Kia Tasman is set to make a significant impact on the Australian ute market. With competitive pricing, strong performance, and a range of features tailored for Australian conditions, it’s poised to challenge the dominance of the Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux. While it does not qualify for current EV incentives, the Tasman offers a compelling package for both work and lifestyle buyers looking for a capable and modern dual-cab ute.
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