Not Quite The Roaring Success
For all the hype that the Kia Tasman got before its launch, one would think that it would be pulling sales away from Toyota and Ford in the global pickup truck sales race. However, it hasn’t been the case for the midsize pickup, likely casting doubt on any future plans for this model and platform
So far, the Tasman’s sales performance has been a mixed bag. Over in Australia, the pickup has seen about 625 new owners per month since it was introduced over there. Kia initially planned 10,000 unit sales per year, but with the way things are going, it seems the company will fall short of the target.
Meanwhile, in its home market of South Korea, the Tasman is doing fairly well. Over 4,000 were sold within the first 20 days of its launch. That said, Kia isn’t exactly a big market for pickups. While it’s a hit there, the Tasman has to shift more units to ensure the model’s future.
Kia
Accessories to Spice Things Up
While we can’t say for certain, there is a possibility that the looks might be one of the reasons why buyers are apprehensive towards the Tasman. At the same time, Ford and Toyota have a stronghold in the global truck market thanks to products like the Ranger and Hilux, so it’s possible that buyers simply go to models they’re already familiar with for decades.
Still, that isn’t stopping Kia from spicing things up to attract more buyers for the Tasman. Or rather, specialist shops are trying to make the pickup look more rugged. In this case, it’s Australian off-road upfitter specialist ARB that’s giving Kia a helping hand by offering accessories that make it ready for the Outback and trails. It was rendered a few months ago, but what you’re seeing now is the real deal.
Kia Tasman fitted with ARB accessories
ARB
Beefing it Up
So, what parts has ARB made specifically for the Tasman? There’s the Summit MkII steel bull bar, Summit side steps, and rails. There will also be other steel bumper designs made for the Tasman introduced along the line.
Of course, there are universal parts that can be fitted to the Kia pickup. There’s the roof tray, LED spotlights, extended antenna mount, and recovery hooks. It’s not known if a winch can be fitted to it, but we reckon it can if there’s enough space for it.
The ARB-kitted Tasman also has parts and accessories from other off-road parts specialists. For instance, the custom bed is made by MITS and it’s available in multiple configurations. Meanwhile, the lift kit is by Old Man Emu, and there’s also a Redarc 12-volt battery system for those glamping expeditions.
Okay, so it probably won’t bring in more punters to Kia showrooms for the Tasman. However, it does show the possibilities of what any prospective Tasman owner can do for their future pickup. However, it might help if Kia sells this model to the pickup-hungry USA. Just a thought.
Kia Tasman fitted with ARB accessories
ARB
