Automotive expert Paul Maric (@paulmaric) introduced the new Kia Tasman to his viewers on TikTok, and received mixed reactions.
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The clip, which has been viewed more than 627,400 times, shows Malick getting up close and personal with the first Kia pickup truck in what appears to be a Kia showroom.
“This is the new Kia Tasman. What do you think?” begins Malick. “It’s quite an unusual design.”
What are the main features of the new Kia Tasman?
Maris said the new model is powered by a 2.2-liter diesel engine that delivers 440 Newton meters of torque.
“We have some really cool features,” Malick explains, gesturing to the side of the car.
He points out the storage boxes built into the wheel arches and highlights the all-terrain tires and front recovery points, which are key components of this off-road capable model.
Malick says the interior is packed with some practical features that are unique to the Korean manufacturer.
“You’ll find something in the F-150,” he said, pointing to the tray in the center console.
Malick explains that the vehicle has features such as a locking rear differential, low-speed full-time four-wheel drive, and even displays the car’s dimensions.
Kia plans to launch the Tasman sometime next year with “a number of accessories and a lot of development work done in Australia”.
Maric concluded by asking the audience for their opinions: “Tell us what you think of the new Kia Tasman.”
What does the automotive industry think of the new Kia Tasman?
The new Kia Tasman’s design is definitely polarizing. car site edmundsFor example, they described it as “wild” but acknowledged that it was the look they “digged”.
But there is good news for American naysayers. Edumnds Reveals Kia America Has No Plans to Bring Pickup Trucks to the US
“However, we are constantly studying the market and constantly evaluating our product portfolio to offer our customers the right combination of vehicles,” a Kia America spokesperson reportedly told Edmunds. .
Viewers were unkind to the new Kia Tasman
In the comments below Malick’s video, users expressed strong disappointment with the new pickup truck design.
“Somehow the Cybertruck isn’t so bad anymore,” one user criticized.
“Kia and Hyundai should give up,” said another.
“That front end sucks,” a third person wrote.
Malick shares further insights
In an email exchange with the Daily Dot, Mr Malick provided insight into the design of Kia Motors’ bold new pickup truck and what sets it apart in the crowded Australian market.
First, automotive experts shared their thoughts on polarizing design.
“This is Kia’s first foray into the dual cab pickup truck space and certainly in the Australian market there is a huge range of options for buyers to choose from,” he explained. “Also, there are now a huge number of options for buyers to choose from in the Chinese market, which means new entrants need to stand out with both technology and design.”
“Given the direction of the rest of Kia’s products, it seems like they’re going for a very outlandish design,” Malik added. “This got a lot of attention. As the saying goes, all press is good press!”
Beyond looks, Malick was positive about the specs of Kia’s new pickup, but acknowledged there are potential drawbacks to its performance.
“Kia has done a great job of providing a very high quality, high-tech interior that appears to outperform most competitors in this segment,” he wrote. “Features like a reclining second row and storage in the wheel arches are not currently seen in this segment.”
Malick mentions some shortcomings
However, Malick also added some drawbacks. He writes: The 2.2-litre turbocharged diesel only produces 441Nm of torque, which is about 10-20% less than most other models, but this is useful when towing large loads or carrying heavy objects. may become a problem. ”
When asked what makes the Kia Tasman different from other off-road vehicles, Malick highlighted a few standout details.
“Things like storage space in the wheel arches, dual Qi wireless phone chargers, and folding tables for the front row. Even features like cooled seats and a heated steering wheel could be a game-changer for the brand in this segment.” he writes.
As for Kia’s first dual-cab pickup, Maric believes the Tasman’s unique approach could help it stand out in the competitive field, even if its design sparks controversy.
@Paul Malick Take a look at the new Kia Tasman’s foldable work table and hidden storage compartment.
The Daily Dot reached out to Kia for comment via email.
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