Discover the rugged 2025 Kia Tasman pickup, now set for a Vietnam debut with premium X‑Pro off‑road specs. Learn more today!
THACO Auto’s recent showcase in Ho Chi Minh City gave the automotive world its first look at the newest name on Vietnam’s pickup scene – the Kia Tasman. The Korean automaker’s mid‑size, off‑road‑focused truck is poised to challenge the likes of the Toyota Hilux as the market heads into a lively 2026.
From a Sneak Peek in Pleiku to a Full‑Scale Reveal
Earlier this year, a Kia Tasman bearing a Cambodian licence plate was spotted cruising the streets of Pleiku, Gia Lai Province. While the vehicle’s official status was unclear, the sighting sparked plenty of speculation about a future launch in the region. THACO’s latest event confirmed those rumours – the Tasman was displayed alongside the company’s other upcoming models, signalling a confirmed entry into the Vietnamese market.
Why the X‑Pro Version Stands Out
Both the Pleiku sighting and the THACO showcase featured the X‑Pro trim, Kia’s top‑tier off‑road package. Key differentiators include:
- Black‑finished alloy wheels designed for rugged terrain.
- A muscular front bumper with reinforced skid plates and under‑body guards.
- Enhanced ground clearance – 1,920 mm overall height and 252 mm of belly‑room – perfect for tackling uneven tracks.
Technical Blueprint
The Tasman follows a traditional body‑on‑frame architecture, delivering the durability and load‑bearing capacity expected from a true workhorse. Dimensions are compact yet capable:
- Length: 5,410 mm
- Width: 1,930 mm
- Height: 1,870 mm (standard) / 1,920 mm (X‑Pro)
- Wheelbase: 3,270 mm
The cargo box holds a generous 1,173 litres and features a sliding floor for easy loading. Integrated work‑site lighting and a 240 V/220 V power outlet turn the pickup into a mobile workshop.
Powertrain Options
Kia tailors the Tasman to different market needs with two engine families:
- 2.5 L I4 gasoline – 281 hp, 421 Nm torque, paired with an 8‑speed automatic. 0‑100 km/h in about 8.5 seconds, top speed 185 km/h.
- 2.2 L turbo‑charged diesel – 210 hp, 441 Nm torque, available with a 6‑speed manual or an automatic. The manual version achieves roughly 7.5 L/100 km, ideal for long hauls and heavy loads.
Both powertrains support a payload of over 1 tonne and a maximum towing capacity of 3.5 tonnes, putting the Tasman in direct competition with other midsize pickups.
Drivetrain & Driving Modes
The standard Tasman offers either rear‑wheel drive or optional four‑wheel drive. The X‑Pro model comes standard with permanent 4×4 and adds a suite of terrain‑specific modes:
- Eco, Smart, Sport – for everyday driving dynamics.
- Sand/Desert, Mud, Snow – specialised traction for challenging surfaces.
- Rock – exclusive to the X‑Pro, optimised for rocky off‑road excursions.
Off‑Road Credibility
Water fording ability is a highlight: the Tasman can wade through up to 800 mm of water at low speeds, aided by a high‑set front air intake and sealed cabin components. These features reinforce Kia’s claim that the Tasman is built to endure the toughest environments.
Market Outlook
Initially launched in October 2024, the Kia Tasman is already selling in South Korea, Australia, Africa, the Middle East, and select Southeast Asian markets. With THACO’s endorsement, the pickup is set to become a key player in Vietnam’s burgeoning truck segment, offering a compelling alternative to established rivals.
Stay tuned for the official launch date and pricing details – the 2025 Kia Tasman X‑Pro could be the next must‑have vehicle for adventure seekers and professionals alike.