Korean Pickup Truck Looks Tough As Nails
People can stop talking, and writing, about the all-new Kia Tasman, the automaker’s first production ladder-frame pickup truck, and it’s not even on sale yet. The automaker has also confirmed that an SUV version is coming if the Tasman proves to be a hit with buyers.
As with most ladder-frame trucks, accessories are crucial to their tough look. Kia showcased its own set of upgrades at this year’s Seoul Mobility Show, and now aftermarket outfitters are working on their own unique upgrades and accessories for the Korean truck.
Australian 4×4 accessory powerhouse ARB has just previewed a full lineup of Tasman-specific gear – a major slew of rugged accessories for Kia’s yet-to-be-sold pickup, highlighting off-road potential that extends beyond Aussie borders.
ARB 4×4/Instagram
ARB’s Accessory Lineup Will Be Extensive
While not production accessories yet, ARB’s teaser catalog includes everything from hooped and hoopless bull bars to bash plates, side rails, roof racks, bed systems, and a suspected lift kit – typical upgrades you’d expect from the off-road outfitter.
The Australian company, which has a growing footprint in the US, also addressed the supposed problem with the Tasman’s front fascia. ARB didn’t modify any body panel, though. Instead, it showed various ways to cover the polarizing grille, including two differing sets of fog lights.
ARB notes that these renderings don’t preview what it might create for the Kia Tasman. They are hinting at what ARB already has in the pipeline.
ARB 4×4/Instagram
America Will Have Its Own Rugged Kia Truck
Designed to take on global nameplates like the Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger, Isuzu D-Max, and Mitsubishi Triton, the Kia Tasman is set to become the brand’s global truck contender. While it will launch first in Australia in dual-cab configuration with both 4×2 and 4×4 drivetrains across five trim levels, Kia is expected to expand the truck’s availability to other key pickup markets.
However, these markets don’t include America, as Kia has confirmed that there will be a different truck for the US market, rivaling nameplates like the Toyota Tacoma and Ford Ranger. Details are scarce for now, but we know that it will have a robust towing system and off-roading capabilities. Kia aims to eventually sell 90,000 units of its unnamed American truck annually and hold 7% of the market.
