Ute Reviews

The GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV has recently replaced its ground-breaking Hybrid predecessor, but does the newcomer's rechargeable battery tech and electric-only driving mode enhance or hinder its workhorse practicality?

The Kia Tasman X-Pro 4x4 from $74,990, before on-road costs, is the off-road biased range-topper in the new ute series, chasing buyers who may otherwise go for a Ford Ranger Wildtrak or Isuzu D-Max Blade.

The Kia Tasman X-Line is the luxury-focused flagship in the South Korean brand’s first one-tonne ute range, and in some ways represents the sweet spot.

The Kia Tasman SX+ is the mid-grade version, and should appeal to buyers who want lots of features without paying too steep a price.

The Kia Tasman SX is the second-from-the-bottom model in the South Korean maker’s first-ever one-tonne utility of this size sold in Australia.

The GWM Cannon Alpha plug-in hybrid EV is part of a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle revolution in Australia. This feature-packed Chinese-made ute has plenty going for it – it’s well-priced and, on paper at least, it's frugal on fuel and cheap to run – but the Alpha faces tough competition in the form of plug-in hybrids like the BYD Shark 6 and Ford Ranger.

The Kia Tasman S is the base version of the South Korean brand’s first-ever one-tonne utility.

The two-step LDV Terron 9 range is capped off by the $58,937 Evolve version. This specification adds 20-inch wheels and tyres, a locking front differential, a better stereo, massage front seats and a heated rear seat. Power comes form the same 2.5-litre turbo-diesel as the entry-level version, with 163kW of power and 520Nm of torque. The eight-speed automatic transmission is the only fitment, and the Evolve continues with four-wheel drive with a low-ratio transfer-case. Claimed fuel economy is 7.9 litres per 100km (combined) but our real-world drive netted a number much closer to 9.0L. Even so, with the 80-litre fuel tank, range should be an easy 850km or more. Safety is covered off by the latest driver-assistance aids including AEB and lane-keeping assistance, but some of the calibration is too aggressive in our opinion. The cabin is a five-seater but, because of the way the vehicle is engineered, there's no cab-chassis option available. LDV offers is seven-year/200,000km warranty for the Terron 9, with service intervals at 12 months or 15,000km, with the exception of the first service at 10,000km.

The entry point for the all-new LDV Terron 9 is the Origin variant which aims to keep costs down with the fitment of cloth trim and a few omissions from the equipment list. Even so, with 18-inch alloys, large dual-info screens, full connectivity, paddle-shifter and a 360-degree camera system, the $53,674 is more than the much older LDV T60, but still relevant. Power comes from a 2.5-litre turbo-diesel engine with 163kW and 520NM, and that's linked to an eight-speed automatic transmission with low ratios for off-road work. LDV claims a combined fuel economy figure of 7.9 litres per 100km, and there's an 80-litre fuel tank for decent range. The cabin seats five but is a little larger than most dual-cabs (as is the cargo area) thanks to the overall larger external dimensions and an interesting design that makes the body side one-piece. The flip-side is that this means there's no cab-chassis variant. Safety is taken care of by driver aids including AEB, lane-departure warning, lane keeping assistance and a front and rear parking sensors. The Terron 9's warranty is a handy seven years/200,000km and servicing intervals are every 12 months or 15,000km, apart from the very first service which is scheduled for 10,000km.

We finally know what the Kia Tasman is like on Australian roads. And Kia is playing a very smart game. Yes, the design is divisive, but it stands out. The cabin is vast and practical, yet also comfy, easy and beautiful. As a workhorse, this ute is right up there. And, with some reservations, this is an enjoyable drive. Willing and tough yet friendly and charming, Tasman is a terrific first effort.