Kia Tasman X-Pro 4WD Ute driven for 2026 review

Tasman X-Pro – I have just spent a week in the Kia Tasman X-Pro, the top spec model. It’s been a while since the launch, and I was keen to refresh my memory and  see if my initial thoughts would change.  Kia Tasman X-Pro 4WD Ute front quarter on beach 1 They haven’t. and that’s a good thing.

It’s a bit of an understatement to say the design is polarising. Im not a big fan but I had plenty of people stop me and chat and they loved the styling.

My initial thoughts were.

  • It drives more like a SUV than a Ute.
  • Inside it’s also more SUV like
  • There is plenty of power and enough torque for all but carrying or towing the heaviest loads.
  • Kia have sorted the suspension to be spot on.

Kia Tasman X-Pro 4WD Ute profile 1

On the launch we didn’t get a chance to drive on sand, so that’s what I did. As well as my favourite corrugated and potholed dirt track that leads to my favourite fishing spot.

I can confirm that the Tasman absolutely loves driving on sand. It simply hummed along and I never switched out of 4A for the drive. When it started to slow, a simple adjustment to the throttle kept it happy. The low torque delivery and excellent calibration of the transmission were on full display.

XPro

Its interesting just how many people online and in person have such strong opinions against the Tasman. But one thig I have found in common with all of them is that they haven’t driven it.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

KIA - Tasman interior front 1

Readers can find more details about the Tasman X-Pro – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE Kia Tasman X-Pro – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Kia Tasman X-Pro 4WD Ute Tub tie points 1

What is good?

  • Premium interior ambience overall
  • Balance between on road and off road ride and handling
  • 4WD Capability – X-Pro

What is not so good?

  • Styling is polarising.
  • No low down tie points in front of tub
  • Low on torque – 500 Nm please

Kia Tasman X-Pro 4WD Ute engine 1

Kia Tasman X-Pro – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers of the Tasman X-Pro could look at : Isuzu D-Max BladeFord Ranger TremorToyota HiLux RogueNissan Navara Pro 4-X WarriorMazda BT-50 SPMitsubishi Triton GSR.

Kia Tasman X-Pro 4WD Ute rear quarter on beach 1

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

In today’s fast paced world, Listeners often want a quick update or a piece of quirky Automotive news. Listening to Motoring Minute provides that as well as the latest Automotive news and reviews.

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 120 radio channels. 

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners. 

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia. Additionally on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

Be the first to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.


*