Our most recent review of the 2026 Kia Tasman resulted in a score of 7.9 out of 10 for that particular example.
Carsguide Contributing Journalist Emily Agar had this to say at the time: The new Kia Tasman X-Line might not win everyone over with its styling, but as the saying goes, it’s what’s on the inside that counts. And in this case, Kia has delivered a ute that stacks up impressively where it matters most with its passenger comfort, towing ability, and on-road manners.
You can read the full review here.
This is what Emily Agar liked most about this particular version of the Kia Tasman: Enormous cabin, Pleasant road manners, Super practical family features
Inside, the Tasman blends rugged durability with modern flair. All variants come with a clean horizontal dash design, durable materials and a large touchscreen interface. Upper trims introduce soft-touch surfaces, ambient lighting and leather-accented upholstery, giving the cabin a more premium, SUV-like feel than many rivals.
Two engines power the 2026 Kia Tasman. In Australia, the standard 2.2-litre, four-cylinder, turbo-diesel produces 154kW and 450Nm, paired with either a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic. Overseas, a 2.5-litre turbocharged petrol option, delivering around 209kW and 421Nm, is available in higher grades and is auto-only.
The Tasman is available in a palette of eight colours: 'Clear White', 'Silky Silver', 'Panthera Metal', 'Gravity Blue', 'Sunset Orange', 'Mineral Blue', 'Snow White Pearl' and 'Aurora Black'. Metallic and pearlescent finishes are optional on lower trims and standard on flagship variants.
The Kia Tasman was named after Dutch explorer Abel Tasman, the man credited as the first European to 'discover' Tasmania, after who it is named.
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Standard kit across the range includes a 12.3-inch multimedia screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, digital radio, LED headlights and a reversing camera. Step up to higher trims and you’ll find extras like a 360-degree camera view, wireless phone charging, dual-zone climate control, a digital instrument cluster and a powered tailgate.
The 2026 Kia Tasman ute seats five adults across two rows in all dual-cab variants, offering a family-friendly layout with generous head and legroom. The wide cabin makes long trips more comfortable for rear passengers, while select higher-grade models gain heated and ventilated front seats and a power-adjustable driver’s seat.
As a dual-cab ute, the Tasman offers a versatile tub rather than a conventional boot. Depending on spec, the tray measures around 1500mm in length and 1300mm between the arches, with total tub volume exceeding 1100 litres. Integrated tie-down points and optional bed liners enhance practicality.
Performance depends on the engine option. The 2.2-litre turbo-diesel accelerates from 0-100km/h in around 10.5 seconds, while the more potent, internationally available 2.5-litre turbo-petrol does the same sprint in under eight seconds. Top speeds vary from 180km/h to just over 200km/h depending on the variant and drivetrain.
Combined fuel economy ranges from 7.9L/100km for the diesel manual to around 9.8L/100km for the turbo-petrol auto 4x4. The Tasman’s 76-litre fuel tank offers a theoretical driving range of over 950km for diesel variants.