2026 Kia Tasman

Kia Tasman

Kia’s Tasman jumps into the double-cab bakkie ring with its gloves up, swinging at giants like the Ranger, Hilux, and D-Max — no easy crowd to impress. You’re looking at a pure 4WD, 2.2-litre turbodiesel automatic, with not a manual or 4x2 in sight. That’s a bold move, because it rules out the affordable workhorse bracket entirely. Right now, there’s just one Tasman SX on offer at R869,950, putting it in the sights of buyers who’d usually be considering higher-spec Hiluxes or the fancier D-Max trims. That price is ambitious for a nameplate that’s only just crossed the starting line in Mzansi. The SX spec throws in all the kit you’d expect at this end of the market, matching rivals on paper at least — but it’s not just about Bluetooth and leather. Bakkie buyers here care about backup: parts, resale, and a dealer who’ll answer their phone when the turbo whistles. Hilux and Ranger have built that trust over generations. Tasman? It’s got to prove itself, and that won’t happen overnight. No used examples means we’re deep in early adopter territory. If Kia wants to get serious, they’ll need more engine and drivetrain options — and sharper pricing. Until then, the Tasman’s fighting for attention with its spec sheet, not its street cred. And that’s the point.