Kia Is Preparing Something Spicy for the Tasman | Carscoops

      This may suggest that Kia is developing a new flagship trim for the midsize pickup.

      A Kia Tasman prototype designed for off-road use was observed being tested on public roads.

      The midsize truck is equipped with rugged tires and appears to have a raised suspension.

      This prototype might indicate a production version of the Tasman Weekender concept.

      Rugged pickups are gaining popularity, as more buyers are looking for vehicles with an adventurous appearance, leading more manufacturers to enter the market. Kia, a relatively new player in the midsize pickup segment, seems to be exploring a more adventurous variant of its Tasman model, as evidenced by a recently spotted prototype.

      In a single spy shot shared by the Kia Tasman Club on Instagram, we see a lightly camouflaged Tasman on beadlock wheels with robust all-terrain tires. The prototype also seems to be elevated compared to the standard version, implying possible suspension enhancements. The dried mud on the tires and side skirts indicates that this truck has already experienced its share of off-road challenges prior to being photographed.

      Kia may have already provided a glimpse of what this tougher version could resemble with the WKNDR (Weekender) concept, which was unveiled at the 2025 Seoul Motor Show. This concept features a revamped grille, more aggressive bumpers with larger skid plates, a new hood, body-colored fenders, 35-inch tires, and various off-road accessories.

      In discussing the concept, Karim Habib, Executive Vice President of Design at Kia, left the possibility of a production version open. When asked about a rugged trim to rival the likes of the Ford Ranger Raptor, he responded, “maybe that will come.” Habib also mentioned that larger wheels and wider tracks are "essential" for a truck like the Tasman, suggesting that Kia is at least considering this idea.

      Regarding the powertrain, a V6 version of the Tasman isn't expected in the near future, as Kia has dismissed that option due to emissions regulations. However, this doesn't mean the rugged Tasman will only come with the standard turbocharged 2.5-liter gasoline engine and 2.2-liter turbodiesel. Roland Rivero, General Manager of Product Planning at Kia Australia, recently confirmed that the company is also looking into hybrid and fully electric versions of the pickup.

      Depending on its specifications, a new flagship trim of the Tasman could compete with the formidable Ford Ranger Raptor or slightly less powerful contenders like the Toyota Hilux GR-Sport, Nissan Navara Pro-4X Warrior, Isuzu D-Max Blade, and the anticipated Mitsubishi Triton Ralliart.

      The Kia Tasman X Pro currently serves as the lineup's flagship model.