Kia Plans Tasman Updates and Derivative Models
A leaked Kia document points to styling refreshes and new variants for the Tasman pickup, according to a report from The Korean Car Blog.
Updated on Nov. 6, 2026 in Car Types
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A leaked internal Kia document shared by The Korean Car Blog suggests the company is planning to update the Tasman model lineup. Kia is also reportedly exploring an expansion of derivative models for the Tasman.
Why it matters
The Tasman is already on sale in South Africa, so updates and new variants would affect buyers in markets where the pickup is offered. The move reflects Kia's stated work on short-term and mid-term solutions at the same time.
The Tasman's 2.2-litre turbocharged four-cylinder produces 154 kW and 440 N.m of torque, with Kia claiming a 10.4-second 0-100 km/h sprint. Measured on a test strip, the pickup recorded 10.04 seconds.
The players
Kia
Kia is a South Korean automaker and a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Group, known for vehicles including the Tasman pickup.
The details
A leaked document from Kia's Employment Stability Committee points to styling updates for the Tasman and possible derivative models. Kia's executive said in May 2026 that the company is working on short-term and mid-term solutions simultaneously, and the South African Tasman lineup comes in LX, SX and X-Pro trims with 4x2 and 4WD drivetrains.
Timeline
April 2026: The Tasman arrived in South Africa.
May 2026: A Kia executive said styling updates were in the works.
November 6, 2026: The leaked document revealing the Tasman updates was reported.
Roadmap
The Tasman arrived in South Africa in April 2026 with an eight-speed automatic and 4x2 or 4WD options, and this leak extends that rollout with planned refreshes. A seven-seater SUV on the same platform was previewed by Kia Australia's engineer in 2025, suggesting the Tasman architecture is being used as a base for more models.
Buyers considering a Tasman in South Africa may see updated styling or new derivative variants if Kia proceeds with the planned changes. Pricing and availability for any refreshed model have not been disclosed.
The takeaway
Leaked plans can change, so prospective buyers should confirm current trims, specifications and pricing with Kia before committing to a Tasman purchase. Watching for official announcements will show which of the reported updates actually reach production.
Further reading
For broader context on pickup designs and categories, explore our Car Types section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by CAR magazine.
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