It seems that the Kia Tasman is a bit like a rock star who struggles to fill concert halls. Despite a promising launch, this pickup has a hard time resonating with buyers, especially against market giants like Toyota and Ford. In Australia, sales are timid, and the competition is tougher than a guitar solo at a heavy metal festival.
Not quite a thunderous success
For all the noise the Kia Tasman made before its launch, one might have thought it would sweep the competition aside. But the reality is that it struggles to convince. In Australia, where it landed like a shooting star, it only attracts 625 new owners per month since its introduction. Kia hoped to reach 10,000 sales per year. At this rate, they might find themselves in a tight spot, with a target far from being achieved.
In its home country, South Korea, the Tasman is performing a bit better with over 4,000 units sold in just 20 days. Admittedly, the pickup market there is not very developed, but this local success could give a boost to the brand. Nevertheless, to ensure the longevity of this model, Kia will need to make sure its sales are not as fleeting as a trendy hit.
Accessories to spice things up
Looking at the Tasman, one wonders if its design is the reason some buyers are left wanting. With the dominance of iconic models like the Ford Ranger and the Toyota Hilux, Kia’s pickup must compete with legends that have captivated generations of drivers. It’s a bit like trying to convince die-hard rock fans to appreciate a commercial pop band: challenging!
To try to turn the tide, Kia is partnering with specialists to give its pickup a fresh look. Among them, ARB, an Australian off-road modifier, offers a range of accessories to make the Tasman more robust and ready for the Outback. These enhancements not only strengthen its appearance but also attract adventurers seeking thrills on rugged paths.
ARB
A makeover that impresses
So, what does ARB offer to make this pickup more appealing? Notably, there’s the Summit MkII steel front bumper and sturdy side steps. One can already imagine the Tasman proudly sporting these accessories like a customised motorcycle roaring on the asphalt. Other bumper designs will also be launched in the coming months, providing even more options to personalise this already unique vehicle.
Universal parts are also available: roof racks, LED lights, extended antenna mounts, and recovery hooks. One wonders if a winch could be installed, but with a bit of creativity (and space), there’s a way to add this essential touch for any thrill-seeker. If the Tasman can capture the attention of adventure enthusiasts, it might find itself in the spotlight rather than in the background.
The ARB-makeover Tasman also calls upon other industry specialists. For instance, a custom tray designed by MITS is available in several configurations. Additionally, a suspension kit from Old Man Emu offers a bit more ground clearance to tackle the toughest terrains. And for fans of glamorous camping (or glamping), a 12-volt Redarc battery system is there to power all the little conveniences needed.
ARB
That said, these modifications are unlikely to transform the Tasman’s commercial future overnight. However, they demonstrate what any future owner can achieve to elevate their pickup into something exceptional. Imagine it conquering dunes or racing on rugged trails: now that’s a vision that could entice many customers. Who knows? Perhaps Kia will eventually introduce its pickup to the insatiable appetites of the American market… Just a little idea that could send shivers down the spines of competitors.
