Kia is no stranger to innovation, but its focus has largely been on crossovers and city-friendly SUVs. That’s about to change. With the recent launch of the Kia Tasman pickup truck, the brand has signaled its entry into the rugged, body-on-frame vehicle category.
Even more exciting is the possibility of a Tasman-based SUV, which is already gaining buzz in the automotive world. Slated for a potential launch around 2028–2029, this new model could become a serious rival to stalwarts like the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, Ford Everest, and Toyota 4Runner.
Let’s take a deep dive into everything we know so far about this highly anticipated SUV and what it means for Kia’s future in the global SUV market.
The Foundation: Built on the Tasman’s Rugged Architecture
The upcoming SUV will share its DNA with the Kia Tasman pickup truck, which is built on a ladder-frame chassis—a classic choice for durability and off-road strength. This body-on-frame construction sets the stage for serious capability, far beyond what most unibody SUVs can offer.
The Tasman truck itself features options for both petrol and diesel engines:
- A 2.5-liter turbo petrol engine delivering around 281 horsepower
- A 2.2-liter diesel engine producing approximately 210 horsepower
These engines are paired with either a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic transmission, offering flexibility for drivers who prefer control or convenience. The pickup boasts impressive stats like a 3,500 kg towing capacity, 800 mm water wading depth, and a payload of over 1,145 kg, making it an ideal foundation for a future SUV that targets off-road enthusiasts and adventurers alike.
What to Expect: Rugged Utility Meets Everyday Practicality
The potential Tasman SUV will likely be offered with similar engine configurations and transmission options as the truck. But the focus will shift toward comfort, technology, and passenger capacity—making it suitable for families as well as overlanding explorers.
Expect features such as:
- Advanced 4WD system with multiple terrain modes
- High ground clearance for off-road challenges
- Large cabin space with third-row seating
- Modern infotainment and safety features
This SUV is being positioned to serve as an all-purpose vehicle—capable of weekend getaways in the wild and comfortable enough for city errands during the week.
Global Strategy: Where Will It Be Sold?
Currently, the Kia Tasman pickup is targeted at markets like:
- Australia
- South Korea
- The Middle East
- Africa
And much like its sibling, the upcoming SUV is unlikely to reach North American markets, at least initially. Kia has not confirmed plans for a U.S. release, as the company’s main focus is meeting demand in regions that have a stronger appetite for body-on-frame utility vehicles.
Still, there’s no denying that the SUV could fill a significant gap in Kia’s lineup globally. Many developing markets crave robust, go-anywhere vehicles, and this SUV could deliver exactly that.
Direct Competition: Going Head-to-Head with the Best
The SUV market in this segment is fiercely competitive, dominated by seasoned names. Here’s how the Kia Tasman-based SUV is expected to stack up against its biggest rivals:
Toyota Land Cruiser Prado
Known for its off-road prowess and global appeal, the Prado has a loyal fan base. However, it is also quite expensive, which opens a window for Kia to attract buyers looking for similar capabilities at a more accessible price point.
Ford Everest
Based on the Ranger pickup, the Everest has made a name for itself as a reliable family SUV with genuine 4WD performance. The Tasman SUV could emulate this formula but introduce a fresher design and possibly more tech-focused features.
Toyota 4Runner
This is one of the most iconic body-on-frame SUVs in the world. While mainly sold in North America and select Asian markets, the 4Runner’s success proves there is a strong demand for such vehicles. The Tasman SUV could become the go-to alternative in markets where the 4Runner is not available or priced too high.
The Engineering Behind the Scenes
Kia Australia’s lead engineer, Graeme Gambold, hinted that a Tasman-based SUV could be in development “three years down the track” after the pickup’s launch, pointing to a 2028 or 2029 timeline. This isn’t just speculation—it’s a strategic vision.
The body-on-frame platform is engineered to be scalable, which means Kia can build multiple body styles (pickup and SUV) on the same foundation. This approach allows for cost efficiency and quicker development, enabling the automaker to enter the market without starting from scratch.
Design Language: What Will It Look Like?
While there are no official images yet, one can expect the design to align with Kia’s current rugged aesthetics:
- A bold front grille with muscular contours
- Chunky wheel arches and skid plates
- LED lighting with signature DRLs
- High roofline and large windows for enhanced visibility
The SUV could also feature functional roof rails, tow hooks, and possibly a tailgate-mounted spare wheel, reinforcing its off-road identity.
Interior Experience: Where Comfort Meets Capability
Inside, the Tasman SUV is expected to blend utility with comfort:
- Durable materials that withstand tough conditions
- Spacious seating for up to seven passengers
- Smart infotainment system with smartphone integration
- Safety features such as adaptive cruise control, blind-spot detection, and lane-keeping assist
Given Kia’s track record in interior design and tech integration, it’s safe to expect an upscale experience—especially in higher trims.
Why This SUV Matters for Kia
Kia has seen global success with models like the Seltos, Sorento, and Sportage, all of which are crossovers. But a true off-road SUV has been missing from the lineup. This new model would:
- Expand Kia’s global footprint in developing regions
- Attract new customers in the 4×4 and adventure vehicle segment
- Compete directly with Japanese and American automakers in the rugged SUV space
Moreover, the ladder-frame architecture adds a layer of durability and performance that Kia’s current SUV range does not offer.
Challenges Ahead
While the potential is massive, Kia will have to address a few challenges:
- Proving durability in extreme conditions
- Managing pricing to undercut premium rivals without cutting corners
- Building brand trust in a segment dominated by legacy automakers
However, if the Tasman pickup proves successful, it will lay a strong foundation for this new SUV’s success.
The Road Ahead: What to Expect by 2029
As of now, Kia is keeping this SUV project under wraps officially. But all signs point to a serious exploration of this concept. With positive reception of the Tasman truck and growing demand for body-on-frame SUVs in international markets, the momentum is clearly building.
Over the next few years, expect:
- Concept previews and teasers from Kia
- Market-specific development based on customer needs
- Strategic rollouts, likely starting in Australia and Asia
Final Thoughts
The upcoming Kia Tasman-based SUV is shaping up to be a game-changer. By building on the proven strengths of the Tasman pickup, Kia is preparing to enter a segment filled with opportunities. If all goes according to plan, this SUV will combine the toughness of a traditional off-roader with the comfort and innovation Kia is known for.
With a launch potentially set for 2028 or 2029, the countdown begins for what could be Kia’s most adventurous vehicle yet.
