2025 Kia Tasman Off-Road Review: A Capable New Contender
Introduction
The all-new Kia Tasman has arrived, and we’ve taken it off-road to see if this diesel dual-cab ute can compete with Australia’s best. While this is a pre-production model (so no on-road driving yet), we put it through its paces in rugged terrain to test its 4x4 capability, suspension, and real-world usability.
Model Range & Pricing
The Tasman will launch with diesel-only, dual-cab configurations, with two drivetrain options:
- Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) S model – $7,000 cheaper than the 4x4 variant.
- Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) – Available across multiple trims.
Trim Levels & Key Features
Model and Key Features:
- S - Base model, steel wheels, basic interior
- SX - Alloy wheels, satnav, upgraded interior
- SX Plus - Bigger wheels, LED fog lights, bed liner
- X-Line - Premium headlights, heated seats, artificial leather, power-adjustable driver’s seat
- X-Pro (Top Spec) - 17" black alloys, all-terrain tyres, ventilated seats, sunroof, off-road modes
Pricing? The X-Pro will be the most expensive, but Kia hasn’t confirmed final numbers yet.
Design & Practicality
Exterior Highlights:
- Function-over-form styling – Not the prettiest, but built for toughness.
- Aggressive front bumper (X-Pro/X-Line) – Better approach angles.
- Jeep Gladiator-inspired rear – Includes step-in points for bed access.
- Optional over-fender storage – Lockable compartment for tools/ropes (supports 6kg).
Tub & Payload
- Drop-in liner (not spray-on) – Slippery, but removable for aftermarket upgrades.
- Fits Aussie pallets between wheel arches.
- Tie-down rails & 15A power outlet (400W) for camping gear.
- Full-size alloy spare wheel included.
Ground Clearance & Angles:
- Excellent clearance (no side steps on X-Pro).
- Good approach/departure angles (exact numbers displayed on-screen during testing).
Interior & Tech
Cabin Features:
- Dual 12.3" screens (digital dash + infotainment).
- Physical climate controls (toggles for temp/fan).
- Dual wireless charging (high-spec models).
- Column-mounted shifter (frees up console space).
- Fold-flat center console – Doubles as a workspace.
- Double glovebox + under-seat storage.
Rear Seat Comfort
- Reclining seats (60/40 split).
- Decent legroom & headroom (knees-up position).
- Top-tether anchors (safer than headrest-mounted ones).
- USB ports, vents & bottle holders in doors.
Engine & Drivetrain
- 2.2L Turbo Diesel 4-Cylinder:
- 154 kW / 440 Nm (less than some rivals).
- 8-speed auto only (no manual).
- 4WD System:
- 2H, 4A (auto), 4H, 4L (low-range).
- Quick-shifting transfer case.
- Towing & Payload:
- 3,500kg braked towing (class standard).
- 1,130–1,240kg payload (varies by model).
Off-Road Performance
Key Takeaways:
- Excellent low-range gearing – Smooth crawling.
- X-Ride off-road cruise control – Adjustable descent speeds.
- Great camera system – Helps with tricky obstacles.
- All-terrain tyres (Hankook Dynapro AT2) – Grippy in mud/rocks.
Tested Terrain:
- Steep climbs & descents – Held gears well in low-range.
- Mud & slippery tracks – 4A mode worked seamlessly.
- Rocky sections – Good clearance, no scraping.
Weak Spot?
Transmission occasionally upshifted too early (pre-production issue?).
How It Compares to Rivals
Ute and Key Advantage:
- Ford Ranger - Best all-rounder, V6 diesel option
- Toyota Hilux - Proven off-road toughness
- BYD Shark - Plug-in hybrid, cheaper ($<60k)
Final Verdict
The Tasman isn’t class-leading, but it’s a solid, well-equipped option—especially if priced right.
Pros:
✔ Strong off-road capability
✔ Smart interior with great storage
✔ Good tech (cameras, X-Ride mode)
✔ Competitive towing & payload
Cons:
✖ Engine lacks grunt vs rivals
✖ Drop-in bed liner is slippery
✖ No hybrid/V6 option (yet?)
Who Should Buy It?
- Tradies who want a comfortable, tech-loaded ute.
- Off-roaders who don’t need extreme power.
- Kia fans waiting for a true workhorse.