The new model from Kia has been the subject of rumors and spy sightings, and it recently appeared in heavy camouflage for winter testing. However, our spy photographer partners managed to capture some images of the vehicle alongside an attractive orange Ford Ranger Raptor. These photos provide us with some clues about what to expect from the new Kia model.
According to previous reports, the new Kia model may be called the ‘Tasman’ when it is released for sale, which is expected to be in 2024 or early next year. It is believed that the vehicle’s strong body-on-frame credentials may be derived from its relationship with the second-generation Kia Mohave (Borrego). There have also been speculations about the design, with some renderings showing a dark blue pickup truck.
However, recent updates on the Tasman have led to a change in the envisioned design. Drive Australia and Which Car, both publications from Australia, have collaborated with pixel master Theottle and digital creator Mike Stevens to create renderings based on the heavily camouflaged prototypes spotted in Sweden. Theottle created a light blue version for Drive, while Mike Stevens worked on an orange version for Which Car. Both renderings showcase a pickup truck that is stylish, modern, tough, and unique, setting it apart from other trucks on the market.
It is currently unclear whether Kia will produce a full-size or medium-sized pickup truck. However, considering the Ford Ranger Raptor used for benchmarking, it is likely that Kia will opt for a medium-sized truck. This would allow the vehicle to compete with international rivals such as the Mitsubishi Triton in Asia and Australia, the best-selling Ranger in Europe, and the popular Toyota Tacoma in North America.
The remaining details about the Kia pickup truck, including its interior and powertrain options, are still unknown. It is hoped that Kia will offer a variant that can rival the powerful Ranger Raptor, which boasts up to 405 horsepower with its 3.0-liter twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 engine in North American specification. Kia may have a potential contender in the form of a high-performance mid-size pickup truck equipped with a fresh electric supercharged 3.5-liter V6 unit, capable of delivering up to 409 horsepower.
According to the Source autoevolution.com