Kia Aims to Create a Vehicle That Resembles a Competitor to the Land Cruiser | Carscoops

      A Kia executive has confirmed that the brand is exploring the possibility of a rugged model to compete with off-road SUVs, depending on global demand.

      Kia is working on a Tasman-based rugged SUV that could directly contend with the Ford Everest. The launch of this model is anticipated soon, but it is contingent on the demand from global markets.

      In addition, there are plans being considered for an expanded range of ladder-frame pickups, SUVs, and electric vehicles.

      The Kia Tasman pickup may represent the beginning of a broader vision for the brand's ladder-frame aspirations. With increasing interest in rugged utility vehicles, Kia is looking at ways to utilize the Tasman as a more extensive platform.

      A senior executive has confirmed that the company is actively evaluating an SUV variant based on the Tasman, and additional off-road-focused models might follow. However, strong global demand is essential for this project to move forward beyond a single region.

      Speculation has been rife over the past year regarding a potential SUV derived from Kia’s first midsize pickup, with Australian leadership particularly supportive. This discussion has transitioned from mere speculation to reality, following official confirmation from Dong Hoon Kang, Vice President of Kia’s Mid-Large Sized Vehicle Chassis Engineering Design Center and chief engineer of the Tasman.

      SUV Variant Could Compete with Major Players

      In an interview with Australian media outlet Drive, Kang stated that Kia is “beginning to contemplate” the idea of a ladder-frame SUV that could compete with heavyweights such as the Ford Everest, Toyota Fortuner and Land Cruiser (also known as Prado in Australia), Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, and Isuzu MU-X.

      Unofficial renderings have already provided insights into how the distinct styling of the pickup could translate into an SUV, which may feature a slightly shorter wheelbase and a three-row seating configuration.

      While internal development is likely in progress, the SUV has yet to receive official clearance from higher management. Kia Australia’s head of product planning, Roland Rivero, pointed out that the project’s future relies on broader global interest:

      “I believe it needs to be globally viable. It can't just be Australia strongly advocating for it to see the light of day. We’ll require interest from the Middle East, South Africa, and South America as well.”

      If the SUV proceeds, it could debut within the next few years. Kang mentioned that the development of the Tasman began around 2019 and took considerable time, but indicated that the SUV could follow a swifter timeline due to the existing groundwork:

      “We started developing the Tasman around 2019, which took a long time. But I think the SUV could be a bit quicker since we already have the foundation.”

      More Ladder-Frame Models Being Considered

      In addition to confirming the consideration of a Tasman-based SUV, Dong Hoon Kang disclosed that Kia is also exploring other rugged models: “Not only for the Tasman, but we are also looking into ladder-frame vehicles, utes, and SUVs. We need to consider all of that.”

      His statements suggest that Kia aims to strengthen its presence in the off-road sector, potentially targeting a new customer base.

      Kia has already announced that it is developing a midsize pickup for North America, which is expected to be one of the future ladder-frame models. This upcoming model will be distinct from the Tasman and is rumored to feature a fully electric powertrain. The expected launch could be between 2026 and 2029, potentially alongside a Hyundai counterpart.

      Though still a matter of speculation, Kia could eventually broaden its range with an SUV version of its upcoming pickup for the US market. This variant might be positioned similarly to how the Rivian R1S relates to the R1T, or the Scout Traveler to the Tera, albeit in a slightly smaller segment.

      Hopefully, Kia’s leadership will approve these initiatives, as there is significant potential in the market for additional rugged SUVs with true off-road capabilities. It is also noteworthy that Kia is working on a more hardcore version of the Tasman to compete with the Ford Ranger Raptor, along with hybrid and electric drivetrain options that might be introduced in the future.