Kia's first pickup truck is about to be launched, but the model is currently receiving criticism for its inappropriate fender design.
The company has taken note of the initial feedback and is preparing a solution for customers looking for a more aesthetically pleasing vehicle. It’s a subtle acknowledgement that the design may be controversial, but at least they’re ready with a fix.
The fender issue is clearly visible in the official photos of the specially painted Tasman. The fenders look like raw plastic panels that don’t fit the bodywork.
Kia Australia CEO Damen Meredith hinted at a fix during a chat at CarSales. “I can assure you, a mudguard accessory will be there when the car launches,” he said. The accessory would extend the unpainted plastic around the wheel arches, adding an aesthetic touch and meeting customer demand.
Kia’s move into the mid-size pickup segment is a serious one, and the Tasman is positioned to compete with the big boys in the segment.
The Tasman rides on a ladder-frame chassis. Under the hood, it is expected to be powered by a 2.2-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder engine, with power sent to all four wheels. It has a towing capacity of 3,500 kg (7,716 lbs) and a payload capacity of 1,000 kg (2,204 lbs).
In addition to Australia, the Kia Tasman will be launched in New Zealand, Southeast Asia, Korea, Africa and the Middle East. Its main competitors include the Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger, Mitsubishi Triton, Isuzu D-Max, Mazda BT-50, VW Amarok... Even some emerging competitors from China such as the BYD Shark, GWM Cannon Ute and the upcoming Chery pickup truck are also a concern for the Tasman.
There’s no word yet on whether the Tasman will be launched in North America, but experts believe Kia is working on a completely different electric truck for the North American market, possibly related to the EV9, in line with the brand’s electrification strategy in the region.
