TLDR: While Kia has stated that there are no plans to bring the Tasman to the US just yet, a separate Kia pickup is being developed for the US. Still, recent testing of the Tasman in America and the company’s expansion of production facilities in Georgia suggest it is a possibility that the Tasman may eventually be one of many Kia light commercial vehicles destined for America.
A production ready Kia Tasman has just been spotted in the US with the latest accessories renewing questions of a US launch. While Kia has remained tight-lipped on its plans, several factors hint that the Tasman could eventually land stateside.
A Strong Case for the US Market
The US is the world’s largest market for pickup trucks, with mid-size and full-size models enjoying massive popularity. Kia’s parent company, Hyundai, already sells the Santa Cruz in the US, a lifestyle-oriented pickup that has been well-received. However, the Tasman is expected to take a more traditional approach, targeting both workhorse and recreational buyers. With a robust design and versatile powertrain options, the Tasman could fill a gap in Kia’s US lineup.
Kia’s reported testing of the Tasman in the US adds weight to speculation. In particular, sightings of the pickup equipped with the twin-turbo V6 engine from the Kia Stinger suggest the company is considering the vehicle’s performance suitability for American buyers.
Join thousands of members!
The Kia Tasman Club is a supportive community that provides advice on modifications and accessories, organise events, and keep you up to date with the latest news and rumours. Best of all, it’s free to join!
Potential Powertrain Options
While details about the Tasman’s powertrain are still under wraps, industry insiders expect it to offer a mix of internal combustion, hybrid, and battery-electric options. A BEV pickup, built on Kia’s Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), could be a game-changer for the US market, particularly as automakers pivot towards electrification. If the Tasman BEV is produced at Kia’s expanding Georgia facility, it would likely qualify for federal tax incentives under the Inflation Reduction Act, further boosting its appeal.
Additionally, a PHEV variant could cater to buyers who want towing capabilities without fully committing to an electric vehicle. The combination of towing performance and electrified powertrains could give the Tasman a competitive edge over rivals like the Toyota Tacoma and Chevrolet Colorado, especially as these models transition towards hybrid and electric drivetrains.
Challenges and Considerations
Despite its potential, the Tasman’s entry into the US market is not guaranteed. Kia would need to navigate the complexities of federal regulations, adapt the pickup’s specifications to meet American safety and emission standards, and ensure production capacity aligns with demand. Pricing will also be a critical factor, as mid-size pickup buyers are highly price-sensitive. Kia would need to strike a balance between affordability and the Tasman’s feature set to compete effectively.
Why a BEV Tasman Could Tip the Scales
A battery-electric Tasman could be the key to unlocking the US market for Kia. With tariffs blocking BYD’s Shark 6 from entering the US, the Tasman BEV could become one of the more affordable options in the mid-size electric pickup segment. Furthermore, building the Tasman BEV in Georgia would not only qualify it for federal incentives but also position it as a domestic alternative to imports.
Final Thoughts
The question of whether the Kia Tasman will be sold in the US remains unanswered, but signs point to a strong possibility. With Kia’s recent testing efforts, its investment in US-based production facilities, and the growing demand for electrified pickups, the Tasman could become a serious contender in the American market. However, the company’s ultimate decision will likely depend on how well the Tasman’s powertrains, pricing, and production plans align with the expectations of US buyers. For now, pickup enthusiasts and Kia fans will need to wait for an official announcement.